Ingredients and Weight:
- Fresh spinach: 500 grams (about 1 pound)
- Cream cheese: 200 grams (7 oz)
- Butter: 50 grams (2 oz)
- Flour: 3 tablespoons
- Milk: 2 cups
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Grated nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the spinach: wash and drain the spinach, then cut into small pieces.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the flour and mix well to form a smooth paste.
- Pour in the milk and bring to a boil, stirring continuously.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and combined with the sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Add the spinach and cook for a few minutes until the spinach is tender and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve immediately in warmed plates.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on average values; actual nutritional content may vary)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 15g
- Note: This dish is high in fat and calories due to the cream cheese and butter content.
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and creamy texture due to the cream cheese and butter sauce.
- Spinach adds a fresh and slightly bitter taste that balances the rich sauce.
- Ideal as a side dish for meat or poultry dishes.
User Comments:
- "This dish was so creamy and delicious! The perfect balance of rich and fresh."
- "My family loved this dish. It was a great side for our grilled chicken."
- "I added some diced cooked mushrooms for extra flavor - really liked it!"
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure that the sauce is not too thick or too thin; adjust the flour or milk if needed.
- For a smoother sauce, pass it through a fine sieve after cooking to remove any stringy bits of spinach.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste; add more salt, pepper, or nutmeg if desired.