Kale is a plant which is thought to have originated in Asia Minor and been brought to Europe around 600 BC; it was then brought to the United States in the 17th century by English settlers. Tuscan kale, also known as Lacinato or dinosaur kale, has a dark blue-green colored leaf with a smooth edge and a more delicate and sweeter taste than the curly variety. Curly kale has a delicious bitter, peppery flavor, and looks and tastes different from Tuscan kale. Either variety makes excellent chips.
This is a great-tasting, crunchy, savory snack, chock full of vitamins, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toss kale with olive oil, salt and pepper.
- Place on a baking sheet in a single layer to allow the kale to roast and become crispy.
- Roast until crispy, around 10–15 minutes.
- Remove from oven. Serve warm or at room temperature.
℞ M.D. Notes
- Kale is thought to be one of the healthiest vegetables. It is an excellent source of the antioxidants vitamin A and vitamin C. It is also an extraordinary source of vitamin K.
- Kale's health benefits are linked to its very high concentrations of the two antioxidant groups, flavonoids and carotenoids.
- Scientists have identified over 40 different flavonoids in kale (quercetin and kaempferol are among the flavonoids in kale having the highest concentration). These flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits which are believed to help avoid chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Within the carotenoids, lutein and beta-carotene have a very high concentration in kale.
- Free radicals have unpaired electrons (electrons usually come in pairs). The unpaired electrons make the free radical reactive and in a form that can cause damage to our cells. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals either by supplying an extra electron needed to make a pair or by breaking down the free radical molecule, rendering it harmless. Antioxidants interfere with the chain reaction of free radical formation and help to boost our immune system.
