Kale Belacan is a delightful Malaysian dish that combines the nutritious goodness of kale with the savory flavors of belacan, a traditional shrimp paste. This dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among both veggie lovers and those new to Malaysian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of kale, washed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons belacan (shrimp paste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, sliced (optional, for added spice)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced red chili (if using) to the pan. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Crumble the belacan into the pan and continue to sauté until it becomes aromatic, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chopped kale to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the kale is wilted and cooked to your desired tenderness.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
Presentation:
Serve the Kale Belacan hot as a side dish alongside steamed rice or as part of a larger Malaysian feast. Garnish with additional sliced chili for an extra kick of heat and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this traditional dish.Tips:
- Be cautious when cooking belacan as it has a strong aroma. Open windows for ventilation if needed.
- Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of sugar to the dish.
Variations:
- Substitute kale with other leafy greens such as spinach or collard greens.
- Add protein by tossing in some tofu cubes or cooked shrimp.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs like ginger or lemongrass for added complexity.
Nutritional Information:
- The calorie content of Kale Belacan can vary depending on factors such as serving size and the amount of oil used. On average, a serving of Kale Belacan (approximately 1 cup) contains around 100-150 calories.
