California Creamed Kale-Fuhrman: A Nutrient-Packed Delight

I remember the first time I encountered a dish like this. I was volunteering at a health retreat in Northern California, surrounded by lush greenery and the scent of wholesome, plant-based cooking. One evening, a surprisingly flavorful creamed kale dish appeared on the buffet. The richness was unexpected, the texture sublime, and the overall experience utterly satisfying. It was a revelation that healthy food could be so delicious and that kale, often unfairly maligned, could be transformed into a culinary star. This recipe, inspired by Dr. Fuhrman’s nutritional philosophy, captures that same magic, bringing a creamy, comforting, and incredibly nutritious dish to your table.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: Approx. 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegan

Ingredients

• 2 lbs raw kale
• 1/2 cup raw cashew nuts
• 1/2 cup soymilk
• 2 tablespoons onion flakes
• 1 tablespoon seasoning (such as Herbamare or a salt-free blend)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot with steamer basket
• Wooden chopping bowl
• Dish towel
• Blender
• Knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the kale. Remove the thick bottom of the stems. This part can be quite tough and fibrous, so it’s best to discard it. Place the kale leaves in a large pot fitted with a steamer basket.

2. Steam the kale for approximately 10 minutes, or until the leaves are soft and have turned a vibrant green color. Keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking, which can make the kale mushy.

3. Once the kale is steamed, remove it from the steamer and transfer it to a wooden chopping bowl.

4. To remove excess water from the kale, gently press it together in the bowl using a clean dish towel. Then, carefully tilt the bowl over the sink to drain off the water. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in the final dish.

5. While the kale is steaming, prepare the cream sauce. Add the raw cashew nuts, soymilk, onion flakes, and seasoning to a blender.

6. Blend all the ingredients together until you achieve a completely smooth and creamy consistency. This may take a minute or two, depending on the power of your blender. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure everything is fully incorporated.

7. Now, for the final touch. Coarsely chop the steamed kale in the wooden bowl. As you chop, gradually mix it with the creamy cashew sauce. This incorporates the sauce evenly throughout the kale and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

8. Once fully mixed, serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cashew Cream Perfection: For the smoothest cashew cream, soak the raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes before blending. This softens them, making them easier to blend into a silky sauce.

• Kale Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of kale, such as curly kale, Tuscan kale (also known as Lacinato or dinosaur kale), or even Red Russian kale. Each variety has a slightly different flavor and texture.

• Seasoning Boost: Add a pinch of nutritional yeast to the cashew cream for a cheesy flavor. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

• Steaming Alternative: If you don’t have a steamer basket, you can also blanch the kale in boiling water for a few minutes. Be sure to drain it well afterward.

• Onion Flavor Depth: If you prefer a richer onion flavor, sauté finely chopped onion in a little water or vegetable broth before adding it to the cashew cream.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This California Creamed Kale-Fuhrman is best served warm and fresh. It makes a wonderful side dish to complement a variety of meals. It pairs well with grilled tofu, lentil loaf, or a hearty grain bowl.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short intervals. You may need to add a splash of water or soymilk if it becomes too thick.

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cashew cream can change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	92.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	N/A
Total Fat	1.4 g	2%
Saturated Fat	0.2 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	75.9 mg	3%
Total Carbohydrate	17.8 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	3.3 g	13%
Sugars	1.4 g	N/A
Protein	5.8 g	11%

Variations & Substitutions

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute the cashews with sunflower seeds or tahini for a nut-free version. You may need to adjust the amount of soymilk to achieve the desired creaminess.

• Soy-Free Option: Use almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk in place of soymilk.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cashew cream for a spicy kick.

• Herbaceous Twist: Stir in some fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley, or chives, after the kale is chopped and mixed with the cream sauce.

• Garlic Infusion: Add a clove of garlic to the blender when making the cashew cream for a more savory flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh kale?
A: Yes, you can use frozen kale, but be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before steaming. Fresh kale generally has a better texture and flavor, but frozen works in a pinch.

Q: How can I make this recipe oil-free?
A: This recipe is naturally oil-free as it doesn’t call for any added oils. The creaminess comes from the cashews and soymilk.

Q: Can I use a different type of seasoning?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasoning blend you prefer, such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or even just salt and pepper. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Q: My cashew cream is too thick. What should I do?
A: If your cashew cream is too thick, simply add a little more soymilk or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Is there a way to make this spicier?
A: Certainly. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cashew cream while blending it will infuse the whole dish with a welcome heat.

Final Thoughts

This California Creamed Kale-Fuhrman is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of plant-based eating at its finest. It’s a testament to how nutritious ingredients, thoughtfully prepared, can create a culinary experience that is both satisfying and deeply nourishing. I encourage you to try this recipe and discover the magic of creamed kale for yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based enthusiast or simply looking to incorporate more greens into your diet, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and substitutions to make it your own. I would love to hear your feedback and see your creations. Pair it with your favorite plant-based protein and a glass of crisp white wine for a complete and delightful meal.