As summer unfolds, our gardens and local markets overflow with vibrant produce, beckoning us to savor the season’s freshest flavors. Among the myriad ways to enjoy these offerings, one stands out for its simplicity, healthfulness, and sheer deliciousness: Portobello-Pepper Kale Wraps. This vegetarian recipe is a celebration of summer’s bounty, wrapping the robust flavors of sautéed portobello mushrooms and bell peppers in the hearty embrace of kale leaves, all crowned with a tangy slaw and a drizzle of homemade cilantro cashew cream.
Ingredients
- For the Slaw:
- 2 cups finely shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup chopped fresh tomato
- 1 fresh jalapeño or Fresno pepper, sliced (seeded if desired)
- 1 teaspoon sambal oelek (Asian chile garlic sauce)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- For the Filling:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed, sliced
- 2 medium red and/or yellow bell peppers, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12 lacinato kale leaves, thick stems removed
- Cashew-Cilantro Cream (recipe follows)
Steps
1. Slaw Preparation
Combine the red cabbage, fresh tomato, jalapeño, sambal oelek, rice vinegar, and soy sauce in a medium bowl. Toss to blend the flavors. Set aside for the flavors to meld.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the portobello mushrooms and bell pepper strips. Sauté until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic, cooking for another minute to release their aromatic essence. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Wraps
Lay out the kale leaves on a clean surface. Spoon a generous dollop of Cashew-Cilantro Cream onto each leaf, followed by a helping of the hot mushroom and pepper mixture. Top with a spoonful of the tangy slaw.
4. Serving
Carefully roll each kale leaf to encase the filling. Serve immediately, with extra Cashew-Cilantro Cream on the side for dipping.
Conclusion
Portobello-Pepper Kale Wraps are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that sings of summer’s abundance. This dish is not only a testament to the joy of seasonal eating but also to the creativity and versatility that vegetarian cuisine offers. Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or simply seeking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these wraps are sure to delight and satisfy.
