Kale Gratin with Pancetta

from Anderson Organics in Caledonia, IL

This recipe is DELICIOUS!  If you have never tried kale I think this is probably the best recipe to use to introduce yourself to it.  Well....even if you do like kale you may find this to be your new favorite kale dish!

1 1/3 - 1 1/2 pounds kale, washed, stems removed and chopped
salt
3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1/4 Pound Pancetta, chopped into 1/2 inch pieces (you can substitute bacon if desired)
1 Cup Cream or Half and Half
2 Cloves Garlic, chopped
1/8 Teaspoon Nutmeg
Black Pepper
1/2 Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
1/2 Cup Parmesan or Romano Cheese

Bring a few inches of water to boil in large pot, add kale and salt to taste.  Cook 5-6 minutes.  Drain and dry greens.

Preheat Broiler, placing rack two shelves down from heat.

Over medium-high heat, place 1 tablespoon olive oil and pancetta (or bacon) in a skillet.  Crisp the pancetta or bacon and add the cream and garlic.  Season with nutmeg, salt and pepper, then cook for a few minutes to reduce the cream to about 1/2-2/3 cup.

Add cooked greens and stir to coat evenly.  Transfer to shallow casserole, about 7x11 inches.

Toss the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper and the cheese.
Sprinkle over kale.
Place under broiler and brown crumbs and cheese for about 5 minutes

ENJOY!

I had leftovers and they heated up nicely in a skillet the next day, of course it loses some texture but it was still enjoyable!

Anderson Organics is a farm in Caledonia, IL that we get produce from in the fall when our garden is done!  They also over shares during other seasons. Here is a link to their Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Anderson-Organics/108974469143908?fref=ts