Raw kale can be a little stubborn--but that's just part of its charm, we think. Baby kale is tender, but as it grows it gets a little tougher, making it terrific for using in long-cooked braises or stews. If you give the leaves a quick massage before chopping, you'll find even the most devout kale naysayers will delight in it. A pinch of salt and a splash of lemon juice on those leaves, coupled with a little bit of massaging (seriously...just rub the leaves between your fingers) until you notice that it's beginning to wilt is all it takes.