Spinach Sauce

Creamed spinach sauce is a classic accompaniment that adds both flavor and elegance to a variety of dishes. This rich and creamy sauce features the earthy taste of spinach combined with the luxuriousness of a roux-thickened milk base. It’s a versatile sauce that can be served over vegetables, poultry, or as a side dish. Creamed spinach sauce elevates your meal with its delightful combination of flavors and textures.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup of freshly cooked or canned spinach (juice pressed out)
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• 1 small onion, chopped fine
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 stalk of celery (or celery seed)
• 1 tablespoon of flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated nutmeg for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Spinach:

   Start by taking 1 cup of freshly cooked or canned spinach, ensuring that you’ve pressed out any excess juice. Place the spinach in a basin or mortar and chop or mash it until it becomes a pulp.

2. Cook the Onion and Spinach:

   In a saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over low heat. Add the finely chopped small onion and sauté it gently for about five minutes until it becomes translucent.

3. Incorporate the Spinach:

   Add the prepared spinach to the saucepan with the sautéed onion. Cook them together for an additional ten minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a delicious spinach base for your sauce.

4. Prepare the Creamy Base:

   In a double boiler, heat 1 cup of milk. To the milk, add 1 bay leaf and either a stalk of celery or a pinch of celery seed. Allow the milk to come to a gentle boil.

5. Thicken with Roux:

   In a separate bowl, blend 1 tablespoon of flour with 1 tablespoon of butter. This mixture, known as roux, will be used to thicken the sauce. Stir the roux into the simmering milk and continue stirring until the mixture thickens.

6. Season to Taste:

   Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your preference. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve the desired flavor balance.

7. Combine Spinach and Creamy Base:

   Stir the spinach mixture into the creamy base. The spinach-infused cream creates a harmonious and velvety sauce.

8. Finish with Nutmeg:

   To add a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle the sauce with grated nutmeg. Nutmeg’s warm, aromatic flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy spinach sauce.

9. Strain Before Serving:

   Before serving, pass the sauce through a sieve to ensure a smooth and silky texture. This step removes any remaining solids, leaving you with a refined sauce.

TIPS:

• Spinach Selection: When using canned spinach, make sure to drain it well and press out any excess liquid. Freshly cooked spinach works beautifully too; just ensure it’s well-drained and finely chopped.
• Sautéing the Onion: Sauté the chopped onion gently over low heat to release its sweetness and aroma without browning it. This step enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
• Milk Infusion: The bay leaf and celery (or celery seed) infuse the milk with subtle herbal notes. These ingredients are typically removed before serving but contribute essential flavors to the sauce.
• Thickening with Roux: The roux (flour and butter mixture) serves as the thickening agent for the sauce. Ensure it’s smoothly blended into the milk to prevent lumps from forming.
• Seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. Remember that spinach has a natural earthiness, so be mindful not to overpower it with seasoning.
• Nutmeg Garnish: Grated nutmeg adds a fragrant and warm dimension to the sauce. Use it sparingly as a finishing touch.
• Texture Matters: For a silky-smooth sauce, pass it through a sieve or fine-mesh strainer before serving. This step ensures the sauce’s velvety consistency.
• Pairing Options: Creamed spinach sauce complements a wide range of dishes, including roasted chicken, grilled fish, sautéed mushrooms, and pasta. It’s also a wonderful side dish on its own.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently before serving. It maintains its deliciousness when stored properly.

Creamed spinach sauce brings a touch of indulgence to your meals while celebrating the wholesome flavors of spinach. It’s a versatile sauce that enhances the dining experience and adds a touch of sophistication to your culinary creations. Whether served alongside your favorite protein or as a luxurious vegetable topping, creamed spinach sauce is sure to delight your taste buds. Explore its versatility and enjoy the culinary possibilities it offers in your kitchen.