Unlocking the Flavors of Escarole: A Comprehensive Guide to Using this Versatile Green

Escarole, a type of endive, is a versatile and nutritious leafy green that has been a staple in many cuisines, particularly in Italian and Mediterranean cooking. Its slightly bitter flavor and crunchy texture make it an excellent addition to a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to sautéed side dishes and braises. In this article, we will explore the different ways to use escarole, its nutritional benefits, and provide some delicious recipe ideas to get you started.

What is Escarole?

Escarole is a cool-season crop that belongs to the chicory family. It is characterized by its broad, curly leaves that range in color from pale green to deep green. There are two main types of escarole: broad-leaved and curly-leaved. Broad-leaved escarole has larger, more tender leaves, while curly-leaved escarole has smaller, more tightly curled leaves.

Nutritional Benefits of Escarole

Escarole is a nutrient-rich food that provides a range of health benefits. It is low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and iron. Escarole is also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help support healthy digestion and bowel function.

How to Use Escarole

Escarole is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to sautéed side dishes and braises. Here are some ways to use escarole:

In Soups and Stews

Escarole adds a delicious flavor and texture to soups and stews. It can be added to minestrone, Italian wedding soup, or creamy soups like potato and leek soup.

Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 head of escarole, chopped
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped escarole, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried basil.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

In Salads

Escarole can be used in place of other leafy greens like kale or spinach in salads. It pairs well with sweet ingredients like dried cranberries and apples.

Autumn Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 head of escarole, chopped
• 1/2 cup of dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup of chopped apple
• 1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped escarole, dried cranberries, chopped apple, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

In Sautéed Side Dishes

Escarole can be sautéed with garlic and lemon as a side dish. It can also be added to pasta dishes or used as a topping for pizza.

Sautéed Escarole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 head of escarole, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped escarole and cook until wilted.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the escarole and season with salt and pepper to taste.

In Braises

Escarole can be added to braises like beef stew or lamb shanks. It adds a delicious flavor and texture to these hearty dishes.

Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 head of escarole, chopped
• 4 lamb shanks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of red wine
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, brown the lamb shanks over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped escarole, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and dried thyme.
5. Bring the braise to a boil, then cover and transfer to the oven.
6. Braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Conclusion

Escarole is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Its slightly bitter flavor and crunchy texture make it an excellent addition to soups, salads, sautéed side dishes, and braises. With its numerous health benefits and delicious flavor, escarole is a great addition to any meal.

What is Escarole and How Does it Taste?

Escarole is a type of leafy green vegetable that belongs to the endive family. It has a slightly bitter taste, similar to kale or collard greens, but with a milder flavor. The bitterness is balanced by a hint of sweetness, making it a great addition to a variety of dishes.

The flavor of escarole can vary depending on how it’s prepared and cooked. When raw, it has a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter taste. When cooked, it becomes tender and develops a rich, earthy flavor. Escarole can be used in a range of dishes, from salads and soups to sautéed side dishes and braises.

How Do I Choose the Best Escarole at the Store?

When selecting escarole at the store, look for bunches with crisp, dark green leaves. Avoid bunches with wilted or yellowing leaves, as they may be past their prime. You can also check the stems for freshness – they should be firm and not too woody.

In terms of size, choose bunches that are compact and have tightly packed leaves. This will ensure that the leaves are fresh and haven’t been damaged during transportation. You can also ask your grocer when the escarole was delivered to ensure you’re getting the freshest bunch possible.

How Do I Store Escarole to Keep it Fresh?

To keep escarole fresh, store it in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Remove any rubber bands or ties and wrap the bunch in a damp paper towel. Place the wrapped escarole in a plastic bag or airtight container to maintain humidity.

Keep the escarole away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily. You can also store escarole in the crisper drawer, where it will keep for up to 5 days. Before using, give the leaves a quick rinse with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

Can I Use Escarole in Place of Other Leafy Greens?

While escarole can be used in place of other leafy greens in some recipes, it’s not always a direct substitute. Escarole has a milder flavor than kale or collard greens, so you may need to adjust the amount used or add other ingredients to balance the flavor.

That being said, escarole can be used in place of spinach or lettuce in many recipes. It’s a great addition to salads, sautéed dishes, and soups, and can add a nice depth of flavor to many meals. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and method according to the recipe and desired texture.

How Do I Prepare Escarole for Cooking?

To prepare escarole for cooking, start by rinsing the leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Remove the tough, woody stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. You can also chop the leaves into smaller pieces or leave them whole, depending on the recipe.

Next, blanch the escarole in boiling water for 30 seconds to 1 minute to remove some of the bitterness. Shock the escarole in an ice bath to stop the cooking process, then drain and squeeze out excess water. This will help remove excess moisture and make the escarole easier to cook with.

Can I Eat Escarole Raw?

Yes, escarole can be eaten raw, and it’s a great addition to salads and slaws. When using raw escarole, choose the inner leaves, which are milder in flavor and less bitter. You can also massage the leaves with a bit of olive oil and salt to tenderize them and reduce bitterness.

Raw escarole can be used in place of lettuce or spinach in many recipes. It’s a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and wraps, and can add a nice crunch and flavor to many dishes. Just be sure to wash the leaves thoroughly before using to remove any dirt or debris.

Are There Any Health Benefits to Eating Escarole?

Yes, escarole is a nutrient-rich food that offers several health benefits. It’s high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. Escarole is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a weight loss diet.

Escarole also contains a range of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. The fiber in escarole can also help support digestive health and promote regular bowel movements. Overall, escarole is a nutritious and delicious addition to a healthy diet.