Warm Kale with Apple, Garlic, Soy & Sesame

A simple yet elegant warm side dish where kale is gently sautéed with aromatic garlic and finished with a touch of soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. Savory, slightly nutty, and deeply comforting, this dish balances rich mains beautifully and adds a refined Asian-inspired note to the plate.

Ingredients (4 servings)

• 10 oz (280 g) kale, fresh or frozen

• 1 small apple, peeled (optional) and diced into small cubes

• 1 tablespoon butter or neutral oil

• 1 small garlic clove, finely chopped

• ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated (optional)

• 1–2 teaspoons soy sauce (to taste)

• ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1–2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Equipment

• Cast Iron Skillet

Instructions

1. Prepare the kale

   • Remove tough stems and roughly chop if fresh, or thaw and squeeze out excess liquid if frozen.

2. Prepare the apple

   • Peel, core, and dice the apple into small cubes. Set aside.

3. Heat the pan

   • Place a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil.

4. Sauté aromatics

   • Add garlic (and ginger if using) and cook gently 20–30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Cook kale

   • Add the kale and stir to coat in the fat. Cook 3–5 minutes until heated through and slightly tender.

6. Add apple and season

   • Stir in apple cubes, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook 2–3 minutes more until apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape.

7. Finish & garnish

   • Season with black pepper to taste.

   • Just before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for texture and visual appeal.

Tips

• A pinch of chili flakes adds gentle heat.

• Garnish with scallions for extra color if desired.

• For a festive touch, add a tiny pinch of cinnamon or a few dried cranberries.