What preparation technique is advised for raw kale to break down tough cellulose and improve tenderness for salads?
Answer
Massaging the leaves vigorously
While kale is nutritious, its raw leaves can possess a sturdy and sometimes bitter texture due to tough cellulose structures. To counteract this physical property and make raw kale significantly more palatable, particularly for salads, the technique of massaging is recommended. This involves rubbing the leaves vigorously, often incorporating a small amount of an acidic agent like lemon juice, a healthy fat source like oil, or salt. This mechanical action physically works to break down the cellulose structure, resulting in leaves that become noticeably softer and much easier to chew and digest without requiring heat treatment.
#Videos
Kale: Benefits of a superfood powerhouse - Mayo Clinic Health System
Related Questions
What two main functions does Vitamin K support according to kale's impressive nutrient profile?Which two carotenoids in kale are deposited in the eye's macula to help filter harmful high-energy blue light?What sulfur-containing compounds found in the Brassica family convert into active isothiocyanates when kale is chopped?On a per-calorie basis, which category of food does kale often surpass in terms of Vitamin C content?What preparation technique is advised for raw kale to break down tough cellulose and improve tenderness for salads?How do the bile acid sequestrants in kale function to help lower LDL cholesterol levels?What naturally occurring substance in kale affects the bioavailability of the calcium it supplies?Which variety of kale features flatter leaves with a reddish-purple rib and is often described as having a milder, sweeter taste?Which two specific antioxidants found abundantly in kale are associated with potential blood pressure-lowering effects?When considering nutrient preservation, which cooking method is generally recommended over boiling for kale to retain water-soluble vitamins?