Until the end of the Middle Ages, kale was probably the most commonly grown vegetable in Europe. Kale was so important in Scotland that the word for kale (kail) is synonymous with the word for food.
In Bremen, in northern Germany, there is even an annual “kohlfahrt” or Kale Walk in which a group arranges a country-side walk to a local inn where they play various pub games and enjoy a meal of kale, sausage and beer.
Kale is an excellent source of beta-carotene, lutein, calcium, and vitamins C and K. It is a good course of carotenoids and, like broccoli, contains several compounds with significant anti-cancer properties. Here is a fabulous recipe from a friend of mine:
White Bean and Sausage Soup with Kale
Saute’ 2 stalks chopped celery, 2 large carrots, chopped, one small onion, chopped and 2 cloves chopped garlic. When tender, add 1 pound crumbled spicy pork sausage (I go for Real Country Sausage’s Andouille).
When sausage is done, drain fat and add 3 cups chicken or veggie stock, 2 tsps.each dried oregano and rosemary and a tsp. of crushed red pepper (or to taste).
Add 2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed, then add one can that has been pureed with the liquid from the can. Cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, then add one cup chopped kale (tough stems removed) and simmer another 20 minutes or so.
Garnish with a little parmesan cheese if desired.
This week at the Market: Apples, arugula, green beans, beets, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage (regular, Chinese), cauliflower, collards, kale, lettuce, onions, potatoes, radishes, squash (butternut, acorn, spaghetti), sweet potatoes, tomatoes, turnips. And, as always, a surprise or two may show up. Free-ranged eggs and local raw honey are available.
Great Harvest Bread Co. will be here with a delicious variety of fresh-baked breads and other goodies; Unkol Chuck will be here with Brunswick stew (still made in a cast-iron kettle); Snyder Family Farm will be here with antibiotic/hormone-free pasture-raised poultry etc.; and Real Country Sausage will be here with a variety of antibiotic/hormone-free pork sausages.
Phal’s Café will be here with Asian noodle bowls, spring rolls and, her delicious wonton soup, for here or to go.
Handcrafts from local artisans are always available.
We’re here every Thursday from 10 until 2 in the parking lot of The Great Big Greenhouse!
