Introduction

 

Ah, the vibrant and nutritious world of vegetables! Among them, spinach stands out with its colorful and versatile nature. It's amazing how this leafy green vegetable can be transformed into various delicious dishes. From the traditional spinach curry to crispy spinach pakoras, there's no end to its culinary possibilities. But one preparation that holds a special place in my heart is the humble cream of spinach soup.

 

I still remember the first time I tasted this comforting soup. It was a chilly evening, and I was craving something warm and nourishing. As I took the first spoonful of the velvety green goodness, I was instantly transported to a cozy sanctuary of flavor. Since then, cream of spinach soup has been my go-to comfort food, especially during the colder months.

 

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Recipe of Cream of Spinach Soup

 

Ingredients:

 

• 1 big bowl of clean and torn spinach
• 1 tsp. salt
• 2 tsp ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 pinch of asafoetida (heeng)
• 2 tbsp chopped garlic
• 1 tsp chopped ginger
• 1 tsp chopped green chilies
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp garam masala
• ¼ cup cream

 

 

Method:

 

1. Blanch the Spinach:

   • Bring water to a boil in a large pot and add 1 tsp of salt.
   • Prepare a bowl of iced cold water.
   • Blanch the spinach in the hot water for 40 seconds.
   • Immediately transfer the blanched spinach to the bowl of iced cold water to stop residual cooking. This helps retain the vibrant green color of the spinach.
   • Squeeze the spinach completely to remove excess water.
   • Puree the blanched spinach to a smooth paste.

2. Prepare Tadka (Tempering):

   • Heat ghee in a pan.
   • Add cumin seeds and a pinch of asafoetida (heeng) to the hot ghee.
   • Once the cumin seeds crackle, add chopped garlic and cook until golden brown.
   • Reserve half of the garlic tadka for final garnish.

3. Cook Aromatics:

   • To the remaining garlic tadka in the pan, add chopped ginger and green chilies.
   • Cook for a few minutes, adding a little water to control the temperature of the pan.

4. Prepare the Soup:

   • Add the pureed spinach to the pan.
   • Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed to achieve the desired soup consistency.
   • Simmer the soup for 8-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Finish the Soup:

   • Stir in the cream and garam masala.
   • Let the soup simmer for another minute to incorporate the flavors.

6. Serve:

   • Pour the soup into serving bowls.
   • Garnish each bowl of soup with the reserved garlic tadka and a swirl of cream.

 

Enjoy this creamy and flavorful cream of spinach soup as a comforting appetizer or a light meal!

 

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About the Recipe

 

Elevate your soup game with this creamy and flavorful cream of spinach soup recipe. Made with fresh spinach leaves and a hint of cream, this soup is a perfect blend of health and indulgence. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a comforting starter for a dinner party, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it's packed with nutrients and vitamins, making it a wholesome addition to your diet.

 

 

Cooking Tips

 

1. Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor and texture, use fresh spinach leaves and high-quality cream. Avoid using frozen spinach as it may alter the consistency of the soup.

2. Proper Blending

To achieve a smooth and creamy texture, make sure to blend the soup mixture thoroughly using a blender or immersion blender. Strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve for an even smoother finish.

3. Seasoning

Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.

 

 

Pairing Guide

 

Serve this creamy spinach soup with crusty bread, garlic croutons, or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red for a delightful dining experience.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cream Of Spinach Soup

 

1. Can I use frozen spinach for cream of spinach soup? While fresh spinach is preferred for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen spinach as a substitute. Make sure to thaw and drain the spinach before adding it to the soup.

2. How long can cream of spinach soup be stored in the refrigerator? Cream of spinach soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

3. Can I make cream of spinach soup without cream? Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of cream of spinach soup by substituting the cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy texture.

4. Is cream of spinach soup gluten-free? Yes, cream of spinach soup is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients used are gluten-free. However, always check the labels of packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

5. Can I freeze cream of spinach soup? While cream-based soups can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It's best to consume cream of spinach soup fresh for optimal taste and texture.

6. Can I add other vegetables to cream of spinach soup? Yes, you can customize cream of spinach soup by adding other vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or onions for added flavor and nutrition.

7. How can I make cream of spinach soup thicker? To thicken cream of spinach soup, you can add a roux (a mixture of flour and butter) or blend in a cooked potato to create a thicker consistency.

8. Can I make cream of spinach soup vegan? Yes, you can make cream of spinach soup vegan by using plant-based milk or cream alternatives and omitting any animal-derived ingredients like butter.

9. What herbs and spices go well with cream of spinach soup? Common herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of cream of spinach soup include garlic, thyme, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect seasoning.

10. Is cream of spinach soup low in calories? While cream of spinach soup is rich and creamy, it can be made lighter by using low-fat cream or milk and reducing the amount of added fat. Be mindful of portion sizes if you're watching your calorie intake.

 

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