Brassica oleracea, better known as kale, is a nutritious leafy vegetable that contains a plethora of nutrients and vitamins. Kale belongs to the Brassica family, of which includes Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and collards.
Four Types of Kale
Curly kale has ruffled leaves and a stalk, which is often dark green. Curly kale has a sharp taste and a hint of a bitter pepper taste.
Image from Dave Fisher
Ornamental kale contains beautiful leaves that can appear to be green, white, or purple. Its flavor is smooth and rich, bringing a pleasant flavor.
Image from Joe deSousa
Dinosaur kale, also known as Lacinato or Tuscan kale, contains blue-green leaves. Its flavor is sweet and surpasses Curly kale in having a delicate taste.
Image from Online Plant Exchange
Russian kale is one of the more popular kales in New Jersey due to its surprising sweet flavor. Its bright red-violet leaves make it more appealing.
Image from bobistraveling
Kale can be found in the market annually, however it is in season from the middle of winter through the beginning of spring, typically having a sweeter taste and is widely available. When purchasing kale, look for firm, rich colored leaves and hardy stems. Kale should be kept in a cool environment since warm environments can cause the leaves to wilt and therefore decrease its flavor.