Kale Varieties: A Guide to the Different Types of Kale

When it comes to leafy green vegetables, kale has been taking the world by storm. Whether it's in salads, smoothies or as a side dish, kale is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many different ways. But did you know that there are different types of kale? In this article, we will take a closer look at the various kale varieties and their unique characteristics.

1. Curly Kale

Curly kale, also known as Scots kale, is the most common type of kale available. It has curly, thick leaves with a slightly bitter taste. This variety of kale is often used in salads or as a garnish on dishes due to its appealing texture. When cooked, curly kale becomes tender and delicious.

A bunch of curly kale on a white background

2. Lacinato Kale

Lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale or Tuscan kale, is a type of kale that has long, narrow, dark-green leaves. It has a sweeter taste than curly kale and is often used in soups, stews, and casseroles. This variety of kale retains its firm texture even when cooked for long periods.

Close-up of lacinato kale leaves

3. Red Russian Kale

Red Russian kale is a milder, sweeter variety of kale that has flat, fringed leaves with purple stems. As its name suggests, this kale variety originated from Russia and has a tender texture that makes it perfect for salads or sauteed as a side dish. It is also often used in juicing recipes because of its vibrant color.

Close-up of Red Russian kale leaves with purple stems

4. Ornamental Kale

Ornamental kale, also known as salad savoy, is not typically used for culinary purposes but rather as an ornamental plant due to its vibrant colors and unique appearance. It has a similar taste to curly kale but is often bred for its bright colors, which can range from white, pink, red, purple, and blue-green.

Close-up of ornamental kale leaves in various colors

5. Siberian Kale

Siberian kale, also known as Russian kale, is a hardy variety of kale that can withstand cold weather conditions. It has blue-green, serrated leaves that have a sweeter taste than curly kale. Siberian kale is often used in soups, stews, stir-fries and can be eaten raw as well.

Close-up of Siberian kale leaves

6. Black Kale

Black kale, also known as Tuscan black kale, is a variety of kale that has dark green leaves with a slightly wrinkled texture. It is a popular choice for making kale chips, due to its crisp texture once baked. Black kale has a sweeter taste than curly kale and is often used in Italian cuisine.

Close-up of black kale leaves

7. Chinese Kale

Chinese kale, also known as Chinese broccoli, is a leafy green vegetable that is commonly used in Asian cuisine. It has long, green leaves with a slightly bitter taste that is similar to broccoli rabe. Chinese kale is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

Chinese kale (Chinese broccoli)

8. Portuguese Kale

Portuguese kale, also known as sea kale or tronchuda kale, is a type of kale that has large, flat, tender leaves and thick stems. It has a mild, sweet flavor and is often used in soups, stews, and casseroles. Portuguese kale is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K.

Portuguese kale (tronchuda kale)

Curly kale, Lacinato kale, Red Russian kale, Ornamental kale, Siberian kale, Black kale, Chinese kale, Portuguese kale