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I remember the first time I tried Swiss chard. It was at a local farmer's market, and I was immediately drawn to its vibrant colors – the deep greens of the leaves and the bright reds, yellows, and oranges of the stalks. But, like many people, I wasn't sure what to do with the stems! They seemed too sturdy to just toss into a salad, and I didn't want to waste them. After a bit of research, I discovered that Swiss chard stems are not only edible but also incredibly delicious when cooked properly. This recipe for Steamed Swiss Chard Stems with Balsamic Vinegar is my go-to way to prepare them, transforming what might otherwise be kitchen scraps into a flavorful and elegant side dish. Trust me; once you try this, you'll never throw away Swiss chard stems again!
What I particularly love about this recipe, besides its deliciousness, is its simplicity. It requires just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. The balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the slightly earthy flavor of the chard stems. A little drizzle of honey or maple syrup rounds out the glaze, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile. And the steaming method? Well, it’s quick, easy, and preserves the natural nutrients of the chard. Really, what's not to love? I remeber going home after that farmers market with my Swiss chard. This recipe is so easy that its perfect for an evening dinner.
So, if you're looking for a creative way to use up those often-discarded Swiss chard stems, or simply want to add a healthy and flavorful side dish to your repertoire, this recipe is for you. It's a simple yet sophisticated way to elevate your everyday cooking and impress your family and friends. Give it a try, and I promise you won't be disappointed! You might even find yourself eagerly anticipating your next batch of Swiss chard, just so you can make this dish again. Its so addicting!!
Required Equipments
- Steamer basket
- Large pot with lid
- Tongs
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Steamed Swiss Chard Stems with Balsamic Vinegar: Frequently Asked Questions
Steamed Swiss Chard Stems with Balsamic Vinegar
Transform Swiss chard stems into a flavorful side dish with this easy recipe. Steamed until tender-crisp and drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinegar glaze, it's a healthy and delicious way to use the whole vegetable!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Prepare the Swiss Chard Stems: Start by thoroughly washing the Swiss chard stems. I like to swish them around in a bowl of cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Trim the Ends: Using a sharp knife, trim off the very ends of the stems. These can sometimes be a bit tough or dry. Discard the trimmings, or compost them if you're feeling eco-friendly!
- Cut into Uniform Pieces: Cut the stems into roughly 2-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes them easier to eat. Consistency is key here!
- Set Up Your Steamer: Fill a large pot with about 1 inch of water. Place a steamer basket inside the pot, making sure the water level is below the bottom of the basket. You don't want the stems sitting directly in the water.
- Bring to a Boil: Cover the pot and bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady steam.
- Add the Stems to the Steamer: Carefully place the cut Swiss chard stems into the steamer basket in a single layer if possible. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can hinder even steaming. If necessary, steam in batches.
- Steam the Stems: Cover the pot again and steam the stems for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork. Keep an eye on them, as steaming times can vary depending on the thickness of the stems.
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: While the stems are steaming, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper.
- Taste and Adjust: Give the glaze a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a bit more honey or maple syrup. For a more tangy flavor, add a splash more balsamic vinegar.
- Remove Stems from Steamer: Once the stems are steamed to your liking, carefully remove them from the steamer basket using tongs. Transfer them to a serving dish.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the prepared balsamic glaze evenly over the steamed Swiss chard stems. Be generous, but not too much, because you want each stem to be nicely coated. Nobody wants it soggy!
- Serve Immediately: Serve the steamed Swiss chard stems immediately as a side dish. They pair well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. Enjoy!
📝 Notes
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 80 kcal
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Calcium: 60mg
