Best Ever Braised Kale Recipe
Four unlikely words make the ultimate green edition to any plate
How to Make the Best Best Ever Braised Kale
Braised kale might sound like an unlikely combination—but trust us, it’s absolutely delicious. This Best Ever Braised Kale recipe takes tender greens and transforms them into a sophisticated side dish that will impress even the most skeptical vegetable skeptics. The secret lies in the crispy pancetta, aromatic garlic, and a splash of white wine that creates a silky braising liquid.
Why Braised Kale?
Braising is one of the best cooking methods for kale because it breaks down the tougher fibers and infuses the leaves with incredible flavor. Rather than serving plain steamed kale, this recipe uses the savory notes of pancetta and the acidity of white wine to create a dish that’s genuinely crave-worthy. It’s hearty enough to satisfy any appetite while remaining light and fresh.
The Perfect Pairing
This braised kale works wonderfully alongside grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or baked salmon. The rich, umami flavors from the pancetta complement nearly any protein, making it a go-to side dish for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. It’s comfort food that happens to be incredibly nutritious and takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish.
Best Ever Braised Kale
Four unlikely words make the ultimate green edition to any plate
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and pancetta. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to medium, add shallot and cook for 1 minute. Add garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the kale and cook for 1 minute. The leaves will sizzle a bit in the pan.
- Add white wine and red pepper flakes, stirring so all the leaves are steamed by the white wine. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the leaves are soft and wilted and the wine is reduced. There should only be about 2 teaspoons of liquid in the pan.
Notes
- This side dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or fish.
- The combination of pancetta and white wine creates a rich, sophisticated flavor profile.