Cream of Spinach

Spinach soup is a wholesome and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of spinach with the creamy richness of milk and a blend of complementary seasonings. This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful way to prepare spinach soup, making it an ideal choice for a comforting appetizer or a light meal.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 can of spinach
• 2 tablespoons of onion juice (grated onion)
• Salt
• Pepper
• 5-6 cups of milk
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• Pinch of nutmeg or mace
• Celery salt
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of whipped cream
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of finely chopped white and riced yolk of hard-boiled egg

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. PREPARE THE SPINACH: Start by draining the contents of 1 can of spinach and placing it in a chopping bowl. Chop the spinach to a fine pulp.
2. COOK WITH ONION JUICE: Transfer the chopped spinach to a double boiler and add 2 tablespoons of onion juice (grated onion). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. ADD MILK: Pour in 5-6 cups of milk into the double boiler with the spinach mixture.
4. SIMMER: Let all the ingredients cook together for approximately twenty minutes. Allow the flavors to meld while simmering.
5. STRAIN: After simmering, pour the soup through a sieve, pressing the spinach to extract as much juice as possible. Discard any solids remaining in the sieve.
6. RETURN TO DOUBLE BOILER: Return the strained spinach juice to the double boiler.
7. ADD BUTTER: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of butter into the soup, stirring until it’s fully melted and blended.
8. RE-SEASON: Re-season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of nutmeg or mace for an extra layer of flavor. You can also sprinkle some celery salt for added depth.
9. OPTIONAL ENHANCEMENTS: For added richness and flavor, consider incorporating one of the following:
   1. Whipped Cream: Add 1 tablespoon of whipped cream to the soup. This will impart a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
   2. Hard-Boiled Egg: Mix in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped white and riced yolk from a hard-boiled egg. This will add both texture and visual appeal to the soup.
10. HEAT AND SERVE: Reheat the soup in the double boiler until it’s hot but not boiling.
11. SERVE: Ladle the spinach soup into serving bowls, and it’s ready to be enjoyed.

TIPS:

• Fresh Spinach: If you prefer using fresh spinach, you can blanch it, chop it finely, and follow the same recipe, adjusting the quantity as needed.
• Onion Juice: To obtain onion juice, grate a fresh onion and extract the liquid. You can use a fine grater or a juicer for this purpose.
• Milk Selection: Use whole milk for a creamier texture. However, you can opt for reduced-fat milk if you prefer a lighter version of the soup.
• Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and spices to suit your personal preference. Adjust the nutmeg or mace to your liking, as they add a subtle hint of warmth to the soup.
• Garnish: For an elegant presentation, garnish the spinach soup with a drizzle of whipped cream and a sprinkle of finely chopped hard-boiled egg. This adds visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.

Spinach soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. Its smooth and creamy texture, combined with the goodness of spinach, makes it a delightful choice for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying option. Whether served as a starter or a light lunch, this spinach soup is sure to please your taste buds.