Are you ready to dive into the world of Swiss chard chopping? Fresh, colorful Swiss chard can make a delicious side dish or be part of a hearty main course. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple preparation or looking to get creative with your recipe, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out how to chop Swiss chard to perfection — all without tearing up your kitchen!
Contents
Gather your materials and tools
Before you get started chopping, it’s important to prepare your workspace. You’ll need a sharp knife, a cutting board, and of course, some Swiss chard. To chop Swiss chard, you’ll need to cut off the stems and separate the leaves. If you’re looking for a more uniform presentation, make sure to remove the tougher ribs as well.
Wash up!
No matter what type of food you’re preparing, it’s crucial to wash your hands and all surfaces before you begin. To clean Swiss chard, you can either run it through a salad spinner or simply wash it in the sink with a clean cloth or brush. Make sure to clean the bottom of the stems and rinse off any dirt or residue.
Ready, set, chop!
Once you’ve got your workspace ready, you’re ready to start chopping! Here are three methods you can use, depending on the effect you’re looking for:
- Julienne: This technique involves slicing the Swiss chard into thin strips. Start by cutting the leaves into small rectangles and then slicing them further into strips. This method results in a neat and uniform look.
- Dice: To pull off this method, you’ll need to stay sharp! Start by slicing the leaves into small rectangles, and then cut them crosswise into smaller pieces. Don’t be afraid to go as small as you want to — the smaller the pieces, the more flavor it will release.
- Rough chop: Feeling a bit lazy? This method is for you. All you have to do is chop up the leaves into large chunks. This faster technique is perfect for when you don’t have time to fuss over tiny pieces of Swiss chard.
De-Stemming
For some recipes, you’ll need to de-stem your Swiss chard before chopping — and this step can be a bit tricky. To de-stem the leaves properly, take your sharp knife and carefully slice away the white part. Be careful not to tear the leaves as you go. If you’re having trouble, you can always improvise with a pair of kitchen scissors.
Now that you know how to chop Swiss chard like a real Swiss chef, it’s time to get cooking! Whether you’ve chosen to julienne, dice, or rough chop your leaves, you’re sure to have a flavorful side dish on the table in no time. Bon appétit!