How to Cut Kale

Wondering how to chop kale? Here’s a step-by-step guide and video showing you how to stem and chop kale.

Video: How to cut kale

Wondering how to stalk or chop kale but not sure what the best way is? Alex and I have played around with different methods over the years, but finally we found a simple and effective method. We use this method all the time, like when we make Caesar Salad with Kale or our Tuscan White Bean Kale Soup. Using this method was a game changer for us, and we hope it will be the same for you! Here’s our step-by-step kale chopping guide, including a video of me chopping kale in our kitchen.

Related: 20 Knife Techniques Videos: How To Cut Anything!

How to cut cabbage step by step

Before we begin, there are two common types of kale that you can find at the grocery store or farmer’s market: kale and Tuscan cabbage. Tuscan cabbage has darker green, flatter leaves. It is also sometimes called lacinato or dinosaur kale. The kale is a lighter green and nice and curly!

Step 1

Fold the kale leaves together and hold them with your blunt hand. Use a large chef’s knife to cut off the tough stalk.

2nd step

Roll up the kale leaves.

step 3

Using a knife, slice the kale in circular motions. (Make thicker slices if the kale needs to be cut into large chunks; see step 4.) You can use thinly sliced ​​kale ribbons for salads and soups.

step 4

When slicing kale, rotate the slices and then cut upside down to get small pieces. Repeat for all cabbage leaves.

There you have it: how to chop kale in 4 easy steps!

Let us know if you try our stalk and chop kale method and let us know how it goes in the comments below.

Best chef knives and cutting boards

Alex and I are often asked about the best cookware. And every time we reply: “A good, well-sharpened chef’s knife! A good knife can greatly improve your time in the kitchen and last for years (we’ve had our chef’s knives for over 10 years). Here are some of the knives we recommend, along with cutting boards and the best knife sharpener. These recommendations are perfect for outfitting your own kitchen, or great gifts for a wedding registry or someone who loves to cook!

Video: Knife skills, equipment and how to hold a knife!

Looking for cabbage recipes?

Now that you know how to chop kale, here are some of our favorite kale recipes to try: