Kale has become quite popular in recent years as a superfood packed with nutrients. However, many people may not be aware that there are different varieties of kale available. Two of the most common are kale and lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale.
While both varieties are from the same family, Brassicaceae, they have distinct differences in appearance, taste, texture, and nutritional value. In this article, we will explore the differences between kale and lacinato kale and help you understand which one is more beneficial for your health.
Understanding the Appearance of Kale and Lacinato Kale
Kale and Lacinato kale are both varieties of the Brassica oleracea plant species, which is part of the cabbage family. However, they differ in their appearance. Kale has tightly curled dark green or purple leaves with a slightly bitter taste. It has a frilly and ruffled texture that makes it a popular garnish and cooking ingredient. On the other hand, Lacinato kale, also known as Tuscan kale or dinosaur kale, has long, narrow, dark green leaves with a distinctive wrinkled texture. Its flavor is slightly sweeter and less bitter than regular kale, making it an ideal ingredient in salads and soups.
In terms of color, kale is usually dark green, while Lacinato kale has a deeper shade of green. Kale grows upright with a tall stem, while Lacinato kale is shorter and has a more open structure. The appearance of the leaves is the most significant difference between the two types of kale, and this difference impacts their versatility in cooking. Understanding the appearance of kale and Lacinato kale can help you choose the best kale variety for your recipes.
Nutritional Value: What Sets Kale and Lacinato Kale Apart?
Kale and lacinato kale are both nutritious leafy greens that offer a wide array of health benefits to our body. The nutrient content of kale and lacinato kale is quite similar, but there are some key differences. Kale is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, and it’s also a good source of fiber, potassium, and calcium. On the other hand, lacinato kale is also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, but it offers more iron and calcium than kale.
Both kale and lacinato kale are touted for their antioxidant properties and cancer-fighting potential. They are also low in calories, making them an excellent choice for weight loss and management. Additionally, these greens are known to promote healthy digestion, strengthen the immune system, and reduce inflammation in the body. Whether you choose kale or lacinato kale, adding these greens to your diet can help you achieve optimal health and wellbeing.
Taste and Texture: How Do Kale and Lacinato Kale Differ?
Kale and Lacinato kale differ in their taste and texture. Kale has a slightly bitter and earthy taste, while Lacinato kale has a sweeter and milder taste. Kale has a thick and curly leaf, while Lacinato kale has a narrower and flatter leaf with a wrinkled appearance.
When it comes to texture, kale is tough and fibrous, while Lacinato kale is softer and less fibrous. Lacinato kale has a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a popular choice for salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. On the other hand, kale requires more chewing and is often cooked to make it more tender. The texture of Lacinato kale is more delicate, making it easier to incorporate into various dishes, while kale may require more preparation and cooking time. Overall, both kale and Lacinato kale offer a unique taste and texture, and the choice between them often depends on personal preference and the dish being prepared.
Cooking with Kale vs. Lacinato Kale: Tips and Tricks
When it comes to cooking kale and lacinato kale, there are some differences to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to note that kale can have a slightly bitter taste, while lacinato kale has a milder and sweeter taste. To cook kale, start by washing it thoroughly and removing the tough stems. From there, you can add it to soups, stews, or sauté it with garlic and olive oil.
Lacinato kale, on the other hand, is best suited for raw preparations like salads or smoothies. If you do choose to cook it, it’s recommended that you blanch it briefly before use to soften the leaves. When cooking with either type of kale, it’s important to avoid overcooking, as this can cause the leaves to lose their texture and flavor. Overall, both kale and lacinato kale are versatile and healthy additions to any diet but require slightly different cooking methods to achieve their best taste and texture.
Health Benefits: Which Kale Is Better for You?
Kale is a superfood that has gained massive popularity for its incredible nutritional value. Both kale and lacinato kale are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for good health. However, there are some specific health benefits that set the two apart.
Lacinato kale has a higher concentration of fiber, which makes it better for digestion and weight management. It also contains a unique compound called chlorophyll that offers several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects. On the other hand, kale is richer in Vitamins C and K, making it an excellent choice for immunity-boosting, bone health, and blood clotting. Overall, both types of kale have their distinctive health benefits, and incorporating them into your diet is an excellent way to improve your overall health and well-being.
Availability and Price: Which Is More Accessible – Kale or Lacinato Kale?
In terms of availability and price, kale is generally more accessible than lacinato kale. While both varieties can be found at most grocery stores, kale is often more widely available and can be found at more affordable prices. Kale is also available in different forms, including fresh leaves, frozen packages, and pre-chopped bags, making it a convenient option for those looking to incorporate it into their diets.
On the other hand, lacinato kale may be less accessible and more expensive due to its shorter growing season and lower yield compared to kale. This variety is also sometimes considered a specialty item, which may result in a higher price point. However, lacinato kale’s unique flavor and texture make it a popular choice among food enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals, and it may be worth the splurge for those who enjoy its distinct taste.
Growing and Harvesting: Learn How to Grow Kale and Lacinato Kale in Your Garden
Kale and Lacinato kale can be grown in the same way as other leafy greens in your garden. They are easy to grow and can tolerate cold temperatures, making them perfect for cooler climates. To grow kale, choose a location that receives full or partial sun and has well-draining soil. Seeds can be sown directly into the ground or started indoors and then transplanted.
When growing Lacinato kale, it is important to keep in mind that it grows much larger than other types of kale. Therefore, it is recommended to space each plant about 18-24 inches apart. Both varieties require consistent watering, though kale can sometimes tolerate drought conditions. Harvesting can be done once the leaves reach a mature size, usually between 50-70 days after planting. Simply cut off the outermost leaves, leaving the center leaves untouched to continue growing. With proper care, you can enjoy a steady supply of fresh kale throughout the growing season.
The Conclusion
Kale and lacinato kale are two different varieties of the same vegetable with distinct characteristics and nutritional values. While kale has a curly and frilly texture, lacinato kale has a flat leaf and a smoother surface. Although both are packed with essential nutrients, lacinato kale has a higher concentration of some vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamin C.
In summary, kale and lacinato kale are both healthy additions to any diet, offering a wide range of nutrients and health benefits. While they have similar properties, their differences in taste, texture, and appearance may make one a better fit for specific recipes or personal preferences. Experimenting with both types of kale is a great way to add variety to meals while also introducing essential vitamins and minerals into the diet.