[Livinhope]

I grew dwarf curly kale picked some the other day and looked forward to eating it.  When cooked it was awful, tastless and seemed to disintegrate in the mouth.  Anyone have any suggestions.  It was good seed from a well known seed company, fed, good soil and kept watered when dry.

[Trillium]

Kale usually needs a touch of frost to bring out the best flavour so patience is needed.

[Livinhope]

I've never grown it before and someone told me it would be okay, I did think it was a bit early so thanks for that, I shall wait patiently.

[realfood]

Could it have been overcooked? Best steamed for 5 or so mins.

[Ice]

I had exactly the same problem with my dwarf curly kale a couple of years ago.  No magic solution, I just don't bother with it any more.  I grow Tuscan Black Kale now and enjoy the taste and texture.

[RichardA]

agree about  a good frosting bringing out the flavour. Try serving with little butter.
R

[pigeonpie]

It might just be the variety.  We've eaten some of our kale and it's full of flavour.  I like it best steamed then with a few dashes of balsamic vinegar.  Yum! 
However, the white flies seem to have taken a liking to it this year so you really have to clean the leaves well first! 

[Livinhope]

Could it have been overcooked? Best steamed for 5 or so mins.

No, very fussy about cooking brassicas etc, in fact any veg, as my mother cooked everything within an inch of its life.  I don't steam, i use a minimum of water and large knob of butter and constantly toss and taste.

[Livinhope]

I had exactly the same problem with my dwarf curly kale a couple of years ago.  No magic solution, I just don't bother with it any more.  I grow Tuscan Black Kale now and enjoy the taste and texture.

I'm glad someone else has experienced the problem.  I will leave for this year and see what the frost brings otherwise it's entertainment for the chickens and Tuscan Black next year.  Incidently Ice where did you get the seed?