Stir-Fried Curly Kale with Chilli & Garlic Recipe
Introduction
This stir-fried curly kale with chilli and garlic is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious leafy green. Ready in just minutes, it makes a vibrant side dish with a gentle spicy kick.

Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 200g bag curly kale
- 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
- 1 red chilli, deseeded and sliced
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large wok over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Add the curly kale and 2 tablespoons of water, then season with salt and pepper.
- Step 3: Stir-fry the kale for 3 to 6 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Step 4: Add the sliced garlic and chilli, then continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes until the kale is tender and bright green.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a lower-fat version, steam the kale for 5 minutes instead of stir-frying. Fry the chilli and garlic in 1 teaspoon of oil and toss through the steamed kale before serving.
Storage
Store any leftover kale in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook to keep it vibrant and tender.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of kale for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other varieties like dinosaur (lacinato) kale, but cooking times may vary slightly due to different leaf textures.
How spicy will this dish be?
The amount of chilli can be adjusted to your taste. Removing the seeds reduces heat, and using milder peppers will make it less spicy.
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Stir-Fried Curly Kale with Chilli & Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 13 mins
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and healthy stir-fried curly kale dish infused with garlic and chili, perfect as a nutritious side or light main. This quick and easy recipe brings out the bold flavors of fresh kale sautéed to tender perfection with fragrant garlic and a hint of heat from chili.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 200g curly kale (washed and roughly chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
- 1 red chilli, deseeded and sliced
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large wok over medium-high heat to prepare for stir-frying the kale.
- Add kale and water: Add the 200g of curly kale along with a couple of tablespoons of water to the wok. Season lightly with salt or preferred seasoning.
- Stir-fry the kale: Stir-fry the kale for approximately 3 to 6 minutes until it begins to soften and wilt, maintaining its vibrant green color.
- Add garlic and chilli: For the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the finely sliced garlic cloves and red chili slices, stirring constantly to infuse the flavors without burning the delicate ingredients.
- Finish and serve: Once the kale is tender and tender-crisp, remove from the heat promptly to retain nutrients and color. Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For a lower-fat option, steam the kale for 5 minutes instead of stir-frying.
- If steaming, fry the garlic and chili separately in 1 teaspoon of olive oil and toss them through the steamed kale before serving.
- Adjust chili quantity to taste for desired heat level.
- Use fresh kale for the best texture and flavor.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the dish further.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 8 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: stir-fried kale, garlic kale, chili kale, healthy kale recipe, quick side dish, vegetable stir-fry

