Spinach Soup

Spinach Soup Recipe

Region / culture: Bangladesh, Sweden | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spinach soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Packed with vitamins and minerals, this soup is not only healthy but also incredibly flavorful. In this article, we will explore the history of the recipe, cooking tips and tricks, nutrition information, serving suggestions, and more.

History

Spinach soup has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. Spinach itself has a long history, with evidence of its cultivation dating back to ancient Persia. The soup likely originated in Europe, where spinach was a popular ingredient in many dishes. Over time, different variations of spinach soup have emerged, each with its own unique twist on the classic recipe.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small yellow onion, cut into small dice
3 green garlic, white part only, sliced very thin
kosher salt
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken stock or water
1 cup italian parsley leaves
2 bunches fresh spinach, stems removed or 1.5 lb (680 g) baby spinach
black pepper in a mill
2 tsp minced fresh chervil or 1 tsp minced fresh tarragon
3 tbsp crème fraîche, stirred until fairly thin

How to prepare

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-low heat. Add the onion and green garlic, and sauté until they become limp and fragrant, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
Season with salt, then add the potato and sauté for 3 minutes.
Pour in the water or stock, increase the heat to medium, and let it simmer until the potato becomes tender, approximately 15 minutes.
Add the parsley and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts. Remove from the heat.
Cover the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Puree the mixture using an immersion blender.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt. Add several turns of black pepper.
Finally, add the chervil or tarragon. Serve immediately, optionally with a splash of crème fraîche.

Variations

You can customize spinach soup by adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. You can also add protein such as chicken or tofu for a heartier dish. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique spin on this classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making spinach soup, it is important to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Be sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking can help brighten the flavors of the soup. For a creamier texture, you can blend the soup until smooth or leave it slightly chunky for a heartier dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve spinach soup with a crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also top the soup with a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve a smooth and creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid any splattering. You can also use a traditional blender, but be careful when blending hot liquids.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have crème fraîche, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

Spinach soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months for future meals.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish spinach soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dollop of crème fraîche for an elegant presentation. Serve the soup in individual bowls or in a large tureen for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Spinach soup pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. You can also serve the soup with a light beer or a refreshing iced tea for a casual meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover spinach soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat the soup in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spinach soup contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spinach soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your day.

Fats

There are about 10 grams of fat in each serving of spinach soup. While fats are often demonized, they are essential for overall health and can help the body absorb certain vitamins and minerals.

Proteins

Spinach soup is a good source of protein, with each serving containing around 5 grams. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron. These nutrients are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Spinach soup may contain dairy if crème fraîche is added as a garnish. Be sure to check for any allergens before consuming.

Summary

Overall, spinach soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is perfect for a light meal. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, this soup is a healthy option for any occasion.

Summary

Spinach soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light meal. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, this soup is a healthy option for any occasion. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique spin on this classic recipe. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Spinach Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, known for her delicious and comforting meals that always brought a smile to our faces.

One day, while rummaging through her old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded piece of paper with the title "Spinach Soup" written in elegant cursive. Intrigued by the thought of turning a simple leafy green into a hearty and flavorful soup, I asked my grandmother about the recipe.

She smiled warmly and began to recount the story of how she came to learn this recipe. It was during her travels in Europe many years ago, when she visited a quaint little village in Italy. There, she met a kind old woman who invited her into her home and taught her the secret to making the most delicious Spinach Soup.

The old woman explained that the key to a great Spinach Soup was in the freshness of the ingredients. She showed my grandmother how to carefully select the freshest spinach leaves, plump tomatoes, and fragrant herbs from the local markets. She also shared with her the importance of patience and love in the cooking process, as it was these simple ingredients that would transform into a comforting and nourishing soup.

As my grandmother recounted this story to me, I could see the twinkle in her eye and the passion in her voice. She had carried this recipe with her for many years, cherishing the memory of that kind old woman and the lessons she had taught her.

Eager to learn, I asked my grandmother to teach me how to make the Spinach Soup. With a smile, she agreed and we set out to gather the necessary ingredients. We carefully selected the freshest spinach leaves, ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a handful of herbs from her garden.

In the kitchen, my grandmother guided me through the process, showing me how to wash and chop the vegetables, sauté them gently in olive oil, and simmer them in a flavorful broth. As the soup bubbled away on the stove, filling the kitchen with the aroma of herbs and garlic, my grandmother shared with me her tips and tricks for creating the perfect Spinach Soup.

She explained that the key to a great soup was in the balance of flavors – the sweetness of the tomatoes, the earthiness of the spinach, and the richness of the broth. She also showed me how to season the soup with a touch of salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg, to bring out the flavors and create a harmonious dish.

After simmering the soup for a while, my grandmother ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of creamy yogurt and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. As we sat down to enjoy our creation, I took a hesitant sip of the soup, unsure of what to expect.

But as soon as the warm and comforting flavors of the Spinach Soup filled my mouth, I knew that I had discovered something truly special. The soup was a symphony of flavors – the sweetness of the tomatoes balanced perfectly with the earthy spinach, while the creamy yogurt added a touch of richness to the dish.

As I savored each spoonful, I felt a sense of connection to my grandmother and the kind old woman from Italy who had shared this recipe with her. I realized that cooking was not just about following a set of instructions, but about capturing the spirit and essence of a dish – the love, the care, and the memories that went into creating it.

And so, as I continue to cook and share this recipe for Spinach Soup with my own loved ones, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of adventure. For in every spoonful of soup, I taste the love and wisdom passed down through generations, making each bowl a delicious reminder of the power of food to bring us together and nourish our souls.