Curly Dock
A nutritious wild greens dish featuring tender curly dock leaves, lightly boiled with lemon, seasoned with salt and pepper, and topped with crispy bacon for added flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the leaves for 10 minutes.
- Add squeezed lemon, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Top with crumbled crispy bacon before serving.
- Young leaves may also be used raw in fresh salads.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use young, tender curly dock leaves in early spring. If you don’t have fresh lemon, a splash of vinegar can provide acidity. Crumbled feta or goat cheese can be a great substitute for bacon if you're looking for a vegetarian option. You can also toss the leaves with olive oil and garlic for a different flavor profile, making it an excellent side for dishes like Boeuf Or Lamb Bourguignon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a side to grilled meats or as part of a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with St. Petersburg Pork Chops for a hearty meal. Consider adding nuts or seeds for crunch, and serve with crusty bread to soak up any juices. For a light lunch, enjoy the young leaves raw topped with your favorite dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the leaves. You can also microwave in short intervals, covered, to keep moisture in without making the dish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curly Dock contains roughly 79 calories, with 4g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 698mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of dock leaves?
Yes, you can use other varieties of dock leaves, but ensure they are young and tender to avoid bitterness. The cooking time may vary slightly, so taste as you go to ensure desired tenderness.
Is curly dock safe to eat?
Curly dock is safe to eat when cooked properly. However, it's best to avoid consuming large quantities raw as it can have a laxative effect. Cooking helps reduce any potential irritants.
What are some other ways to use curly dock?
Curly dock can be used in various dishes. You can blend it into smoothies, add it to soups, or incorporate it into stir-fries. It can also be a unique addition to savory pies or quiches.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).