Do you have fond memories of eating Swiss Chard as a kid? Or have you been curious about this classic Swiss ingredient? You have come to the right place! In this article, we’ll discuss all the ins-and-outs of Swiss Chard. What it is, the difference between varieties, and creative ways to use it in your cooking. So read on for your Swiss Chard education!
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What Is Swiss Chard?
Swiss Chard is a variety of leafy green vegetable, with a texture similar to spinach and other greens like kale. It is known for its distinct ribbed stem and broad and bright leaves that can range in color from yellow to red, depending on the variety. Swiss Chard is part of the Chenopodium (goosefoot) family, which also includes beets and quinoa. Swiss Chard dates back to the 5th century BC in Greece and was introduced to Switzerland in the 19th century.
The Different Types of Swiss Chard
There are two types of Swiss Chard: Green and French. The Green Swiss Chard is most commonly available and is usually milder in flavor and more tender in texture. The French variety has a more vibrant, bold flavor and thicker stalks. When cooked, the French variety is also more tart than the Green variety.
How to Prepare Swiss Chard
- Wash: Wash the leaves and stems separately and remove the tougher, thicker stems for separate use or discard them, if desired.
- Chop: Roughly chop the leaves or slice them into strips. Slice the stems into small pieces.
- Separate: If desired, cook the leaves and stems separately.
- Cook: Cook leaves for 2-3 minutes in boiling water until they’re tender. Cook stems for 5-10 minutes until they’re soft. Or, if desired, cook everything together.
How to Enjoy Swiss Chard
Swiss Chard lends itself to a variety of dishes. It is fantastic to add to salads, sandwiches, soups, stews and stir-fries. It also pairs amazingly with proteins like chicken, pork, turkey, and fish. As a tip: if you’re looking for a veggie dish that’s both delicious and nutritious, Swiss Chard is your go-to!
That’s the low-down on Swiss Chard. With so many nutritional benefits, its delicious flavor, and its versatility, this leafy green vegetable is a win-win situation for your diet. Add it to salads for a pop of color and flavor, cook it in soups and stir-fries for a nutritional powerhouse, or serve it with colorful sides. Swiss Chard is the perfect way to go gourmet and add an extra oomph to your cooking!