Dwarf Blue Curled Scotch Kale is a variety of kale known for its beautiful, finely curled bluish-green leaves. It's a member of the Brassica oleracea family, which includes cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.
Dwarf Blue Curled Scotch Kale is a low-growing kale variety, typically reaching only about 12-15 inches tall with a spread of 24-30 inches. Its leaves are the most notable feature, with a vibrant bluish-green color and a tight, feathery curl. The leaves are considered to be more tender and crispier than other kale varieties.
Flavor and Culinary Uses
Dwarf Blue Curled Scotch Kale has a slightly sweet flavor with a hint of bitterness, which becomes more pronounced as the leaves mature.
The leaves can be enjoyed raw or cooked. When raw, they add a vibrant pop of color and a peppery bite to salads. Cooked kale is more tender and slightly sweeter.
It can be steamed, sautéed, braised, or added to soups and stews.
Kale chips are a popular healthy snack made by baking or dehydrating kale leaves with olive oil and seasonings.
Health Benefits
Kale is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Dwarf Blue Curled Scotch Kale is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and potassium. It is also low in calories and fat.
Origin and History
Kale is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region or Asia Minor, with its cultivation dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. Dwarf Blue Curled Scotch Kale is thought to be a more recent variety, but its exact origins are unknown.
Fun Facts
- Kale is nicknamed the "king of greens" due to its impressive nutrient profile.
- Kale was not always considered a superfood. In fact, it was primarily used as animal fodder until the recent surge in interest in healthy eating.
- Dwarf Blue Curled Scotch Kale is known for its cold tolerance and can withstand frost.
- There are over 50 different varieties of kale, each with its unique flavor and appearance.
