We’re pretty spoiled in America when it comes to the availability and variety of fruits and veggies. Sure, some things are seasonal, like cherries, peaches, persimmons and watermelon. But truly, if you really wanted something, you could find it. If you want watermelons in the middle of January, you’re going to find halved watermelons in the fridge.
In Jordan, not so much. Fruits and Veggies are truly seasonal. Remember when I was searching for Orange Pumpkins? Grape leaves are only fresh in the warmer months — even though, in my opinion, grape leaves and stuffed zucchini are super wintery to me. Persimmons and chestnuts are pretty much everywhere these days and apples and oranges have replaced the stacks of watermelons on the side of the road.
On the bright side, produce is super fresh. And guess what? It actually tastes really good. It’s Winter here in Jordan which means the kale I was searching for over the summer, is now in season. I stocked up on curly kale for salads but I decided to get a little bit creative. Truth be told, I wanted to make kale salad with crunchy chickpeas. But of course, I didn’t have any chickpeas. I wasn’t ready to give up just yet. Enter Kale chips with Garlicky lemon Tahini Dip….
Ingredients
- 1 pound curly kale, stems and large inner ribs removed
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt, to taste
- ¼ cup Tahini
- Lemon juice from 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Plain Yogurt
- About 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 F (190 C).
- In a bowl, toss the kale with the olive oil, salt and one clove minced garlic
- Spread the kale into an even layer on a large baking sheet and place in the middle rack of the oven.
- Roast for about 15 minutes, making sure to shake the pan about half way through.
- For extra crispy kale chips, Turn the oven off and keep the kale in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes
- In a small bowl whisk together tahini, lemon juice, yogurt, 1 clove smashed garlic and salt until combined. Add some water if needed to create a creamy consistency.
