Braised Cavolo Nero Kale

Serves 4

Cavolo nero, dinosaur, Tuscan, and lacinato are all names given to a long, leafy, crinkly kale variety. Serve this light vegetable stew over grilled bread or tossed with pasta. Curly or Russian kale can be substituted for Tuscan kale.

• 3 Tbs. olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (1 ⅓ cups)
• 3 small carrots, diced (1 ½ cups)
• 2 bunches cavolo nero kale, tough ribs removed, and leaves coarsely chopped (9 cups)
• ½ tsp. red pepper flakes
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced

1. Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sauté onion 7 to 9 minutes, or until golden. Add carrots, and cook 2 to 3 minutes more. Add kale and 1/2 cup water, cover, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until kale has wilted. Stir in red pepper flakes and garlic, and cook 1 to 2 minutes more. Add 1 1/4 cups water, and bring to a simmer.
2. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 40 minutes, or until kale is tender, adding more water if necessary.
3. Uncover pot, increase heat to medium-high, and cook 3 minutes, or until most of liquid has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

from Vegetarian Times