The Anti-Anxiety Diet Cookbook - Turkey Apple Kale Patties

In these crazy times I thought it would be helpful to post a kid-friendly recipe from a great cookbook called "The Anti-Anxiety Cookbook". Food as medicine is a powerful vehicle for positive change if you are struggling with physical and/or emotional challenges.

Turkey Apple Kale Patties

Dark leafy greens and the tryptophan in turkey are powerful players for metabolic and mood stabiliity.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp avocado oil

• 1 cup chopped apple (with skin on; I used Honey Crisp)

• 1/2 cup peeled and chopped red onion

• 1/2 tsp plus generous pinch sea salt

• 3 cups steamed and chopped lacinato kale

• 1/3 cup flat Italian parsley leaves

• 1/2 tsp white pepper

• 1 lb ground dark turkey meat

• 2 tbsp almond flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp avocado oil followed by the apple and onion.

3. Stir in the apple and onion to coat in oil and allow to simmer undisturbed for 2 to 3 min. Turn the heat down to medium, then stir every 2 min or so for 8 min.

4. Add generous pinch of salt and the kale leaves. Stir again to coat the leaves, which will start to wilt down. Continue sauteing for 5 to 6 min.

5. Once the kale has cooked down, turn off the heat and allow mixture to cool.

6. Once cooled, transfer the kale mixture to a food processor with an 'S' blade. Add remaining 1/2 tsp salt, parsley, and white pepper and pulse until well combined.

7. Add the turkey and pulse 10 - 15 times to mix well.

8. Add almond flour and pulse 5-6 times to incorporate.

9. Scoop 1/8 cup portions into hands and roll into patties or meatballs. Place the patties on a baking sheet.

10. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven for 20-25 min, checking for doneness at 20 min. Bake until lightly browned and the internal temperature reaches 165.