![different types of kale laying on a dish rag on a marble countertop](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.eatingwell.com/thmb/7jtKmavUwBisGtuWXd_muCkbVgU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/how-to-cut-kale-primary-56f47e42e65a4f0abf9a81c999739730.jpg)
Whether you're growing it in your backyard or picking up a bunch from the grocery store, kale is known for its curly, and oftentimes unruly, leaves. While those leaves are great for using in a wide array of recipes, from Kale Salad with Cranberries to Creamed Kale, prepping kale for cooking may seem tricky. To help, we put together this guide with step-by-step photos, so you can learn how to cut kale like a pro.
How to Cut Kale
1. Wash kale in cool water to remove sand and grit.
![A woman's hands tossing kale in a bowl](https://www.eatingwell.com/thmb/BAwuqIN-2GVisnmYRgT9ldzN9So=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/how-to-cut-kale-body-1-0a99087cdf104de78ac5c926817446a2.jpg)
2. Slice along each side of the stem or hold onto it and pull off the leaves.
![Hands using a knife to cut kale on a cutting board](https://www.eatingwell.com/thmb/AvcusZtoYDEibQqXAabx3tJROSA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/how-to-cut-kale-body-2-001664e110524eaf8ed363efae07d33d.jpg)
3. Chop or tear leaves to desired size.
![A close up of hands using a knife to cut kale on a cutting board](https://www.eatingwell.com/thmb/CTMOOBo9UpFFblcPLPUhWYSCBeQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/how-to-cut-kale-body-3-f7b459c20e7347ba9b2d7a5b38c7915e.jpg)
Once your kale is chopped, recipes like Adobo Chicken & Kale Enchiladas and Spicy Potato & Kale Soup are just the beginning of what you can make and enjoy. Next up: Learn how to cook kale the right way.
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