Cavalo nero

Also known as cavolo nero, or simply winter black cabbage, cavalo nero is a variety of kale, a brassica. Kale, unlike cabbage, does not form a head but stays loose, and cavalo nero is no exception. The leaves range from dark green to almost black, hence the name, nero meaning black. The sword-like leaves are thick like a savoy cabbage. It prefers, and tastes sweeter after, cold weather, so is easily grown in in the UK where frost is common in winter. It is rich in vitamin C, B6, K, and beta carotene, as well as a host of other mineral and trace elements.