Collards or Kale with Tahini

Collards or Kale with Tahini is a hearty and satisfying dish that showcases the earthy flavors of dark leafy greens paired with the creamy richness of tahini. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal and can be served over rice, especially basmati, for a delightful combination of tastes and textures. Whether you choose collards or kale, this dish offers a nutritious and flavorful addition to your dinner table. Experiment with other greens to create unique variations of this dish to suit your taste.

Makes: 4 servings

Time: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 1 pound collards or kale with stems under 1/4 inch thick, well washed and roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup chicken stock or water
• 3 tablespoons tahini
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Chopped fresh tomato for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a large, deep skillet or pot with a lid, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and cook until it turns golden but not brown, which usually takes about 3 minutes.
2. Add the Greens: Stir in the collards or kale, chicken stock (or water), tahini, and a generous sprinkling of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover the skillet and cook until the greens wilt and become tender, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Simmer to Perfection: Uncover the skillet and continue to cook the greens at a low simmer, stirring frequently, until they reach the desired tenderness, for at least 5 minutes more. If the pot appears dry, add more chicken stock to create a sauce-like consistency, but avoid making it too soupy.
4. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the collards or kale hot, warm, or at room temperature, garnished with chopped fresh tomatoes if desired.

SERVING TIPS:

• Collards or Kale with Tahini pairs beautifully with rice, especially fragrant basmati rice, providing a wholesome and satisfying meal.

VARIATION:

For additional flavor variations, try the following adaptations:

• Collards or Kale with Peanut Butter: using peanut butter instead of tahini, and add minced fresh ginger and lime juice for an exotic twist.
• Collards or Kale with Yogurt: incorporating yogurt in place of tahini, and garnish with fresh dill or mint for a refreshing touch.

Enjoy this rich and nutritious Collards or Kale with Tahini dish as a delightful addition to your repertoire of vegetarian meals. The creamy tahini complements the tender greens, creating a delectable combination that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.