Kale as Comfort Food

Thanks for all the tips about side stitches.  It seems like it is a combination of what you eat beforehand and your breathing during the run.  I’m definitely going to try out some of the breathing techniques if it happens again (but hopefully it doesn’t).

It is pouring rain here in DC, so last night I wanted to make something warm and filling – COMFORT FOOD.

Most people associate comfort food with really heavy dishes, but I think it really comes down to satiety.  Salads just don’t do the trick.  If the title of this post is confusing you, don’t worry.  I used kale to make a hearty soup last night.

Kale & Bean Spicy Soup

Ingredients (makes 8 regular servings or 6 large servings)

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 54 oz. of chicken or vegetable broth (7 cups)
• 1 15.5 oz can of navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion
• 1/2 red pepper
• 1/2 zucchini
• 2 medium tomatoes
• 1 bunch of kale
• 1.5 cups of uncooked whole wheat pasta
• 1 tbsp fresh basil
• Frank’s Red Hot sauce

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium high-heat.  While the oil is heating up, chop the onion, pepper and zucchini (and a pinch of salt).
2. Add chopped veggies to pot.  Cook for about 10 minutes.
3. While these are cooking, cut the kale into very small pieces and chop the tomatoes.  I find it easier to tear up the kale with my hands, but of course a knife will do the trick.
4. Add to pot and cook another few minutes.
5. Add the broth to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the beans, pasta and basil and continue to simmer over medium heat.  Add another pinch of salt here.
7. Add several dashes of Frank’s Red Hot sauce.  Have I mentioned I <3 Frank’s?  Also, add some fresh ground pepper.
8. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
9. Optional: add a small piece of parmesan.  Mmmmmmmmm melty cheese.

Nutritional Information (for 8 servings):

Calories – 160     Total fat – 1.9g      Total Carbs – 30.5g     Dietary Fiber – 9.2g    Protein – 8.6g

Isn’t that soup pretty with all the different colors?  Can’t wait for leftovers for lunch today!

For me, a bowl of soup isn’t complete without a piece of bread for dipping.  The key here is Garlic Salt. Toast + a smidge of butter + some garlic salt = quick garlic bread!

What is your favorite comfort food?  Mine is probably macaroni & cheese!