What You’ll Need:
- 1 bunch of Swiss chard
- 4 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Ice water bath (optional)
Step 1: Prep the Swiss Chard
Start by washing the Swiss chard thoroughly under cool running water. Remove any dirt or debris that may be clinging to the leaves. Once clean, pat dry with a kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Trim off any tough stems at the bottom of the leaves.
Step 2: Boil Water
Fill a large pot with 4 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the boiling water. The salt helps to enhance the flavor of the Swiss chard.
Step 3: Blanch the Swiss Chard
Gently add the prepared Swiss chard leaves to the boiling water. Make sure they are fully submerged and have enough space to move around freely. Let the Swiss chard blanch for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves turn bright green and become slightly tender.
Step 4: Shock in Ice Water (Optional)
If you prefer your Swiss chard to have a crisp texture, you can quickly shock it in an ice water bath after blanching. Prepare a large bowl filled with cold water and ice cubes. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the blanched Swiss chard into the ice water bath. Let it sit for a minute or two. This process helps stop the cooking process and preserves the vibrant green color.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Remove the Swiss chard from the ice water bath and drain well. You can gently squeeze excess water from the leaves if desired. Serve the boiled Swiss chard as a side dish, or incorporate it into your favorite recipes, such as sautés, soups, or pasta dishes. It pairs well with garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
Now that you know how to boil Swiss chard, you can enjoy this nutritious vegetable in a simple yet flavorful way. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, boiling Swiss chard is a technique that will surely impress your taste buds.