Vegan Creamed Spinach

Vegan Creamed Spinach is a comforting and creamy side dish that’s perfect for those following a plant-based diet. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy spinach, this recipe will satisfy your cravings. The velvety vegan margarine-based sauce, infused with garlic, red pepper, and sage, perfectly complements the earthy flavors of spinach. While fresh spinach is fantastic, using frozen spinach can be a cost-effective alternative without sacrificing taste. This dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various main courses or even as a tasty dip for bread and crackers.

SERVES 6

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon vegan margarine
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 cup unsweetened soymilk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 (12-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Melt Vegan Margarine: Begin by melting the vegan margarine in a 2-quart slow cooker or a saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to become fully liquid and shimmer slightly.
2. Add Garlic and Flour: Add the minced garlic to the melted margarine. Sauté the garlic for about 2 minutes, ensuring it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Stir in the flour to create a smooth base for your creamy sauce.
3. Incorporate Soymilk: Slowly pour the unsweetened soymilk into the saucepan while continuously whisking. The goal is to create a creamy and lump-free sauce. Whisk until the sauce is well combined and any lumps are completely dissolved.
4. Season the Sauce: Add the salt, crushed red pepper, and dried sage to the sauce. These seasonings will add layers of flavor to your creamy spinach. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the sauce.
5. Introduce the Spinach: Now, it’s time to incorporate the star of the show – the spinach. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained. Add the spinach to the sauce and stir to coat it completely.
6. Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld, creating a rich and creamy vegan creamed spinach. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

VARIATIONS:

• Simplified Vegan Creamed Spinach: For a simpler version of this dish, skip the red pepper and sage, and focus on a buttery sauce seasoned with salt and pepper. It’s a classic choice that lets the creamy spinach shine.
• Cheesy Vegan Creamed Spinach: Take this dish to the next level by adding a generous sprinkle of vegan cheese such as Daiya Mozzarella Style Shreds. This addition provides extra creaminess and a cheesy kick.

Vegan Creamed Spinach is a luscious and dairy-free take on a classic side dish. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, red pepper, and sage, beautifully complements the tender spinach. Whether you serve it as a side with your favorite entrée or use it as a delightful dip, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. So, whether you’re a vegan, flexitarian, or simply looking for a tasty way to incorporate more greens into your diet, this dish has you covered. Enjoy the rich and creamy goodness of Vegan Creamed Spinach!