Potato and spinach pudding

Potato and Spinach Pudding: A Savory and Nutritious Delicacy

Welcome to our kitchen! Today we will prepare a potato and spinach pudding that will delight both your taste buds and your eyes. This recipe is versatile, perfect as an appetizer, vegetarian main course, or side dish. Its savory flavor and creamy texture make it an ideal choice for any occasion. Additionally, it is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.

A Touch of History

Vegetable puddings have a long history, being prepared in various cultures around the world. They have often been used as a way to make the most of seasonal vegetables, creating nutritious and delicious dishes. Our recipe today combines the sweet taste of potatoes with the fresh aroma of spinach, bringing you a dish that not only nourishes but also delights.

Preparation Time and Servings

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 400 g frozen spinach (chopped)
- 12 small potatoes (or 6 large ones)
- 100 g butter
- 150 ml milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (preferably Himalayan pink salt)
- 7 heaping tablespoons creamy cottage cheese
- 1 small yogurt
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of white pepper
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch

Step by Step: Preparing the Pudding

1. Preparing the Spinach
Start by placing the milk in a pot over low heat. Add the frozen spinach directly into the milk. Let it thaw for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally with a fork to break it apart. This step is essential to prevent rapid oxidation of the spinach.

2. Transforming the Spinach into Puree
When the spinach is completely thawed, add the butter and let it melt. Then, use an immersion blender to turn the mixture into a fine puree. This puree will add a creamy texture to your pudding.

3. Boiling the Potatoes
In the meantime, peel and dice the potatoes for mashing. Boil them in salted water until fully cooked. Make sure to drain them well to avoid a watery pudding.

4. Preparing the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, mix the eggs with the yogurt, cottage cheese, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Blend well to obtain a homogeneous mixture.

5. Assembling the Pudding
In a baking dish, arrange the boiled potatoes. Sprinkle with a little salt, then pour the spinach and cheese mixture on top. Ensure that you cover the potatoes evenly for a well-cooked pudding.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the pudding for 30 minutes. You will know it is ready when it has a golden crust on top and pulls away easily from the edges of the dish.

7. Serving
Let the pudding cool for a few minutes before slicing it into portions. You can serve it warm, alongside a fresh salad or flavorful sauces.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Ingredients: Use fresh spinach if available for a more intense flavor and texture. If you choose frozen spinach, ensure it is well-chopped; this will help to even out the mixture.
- Variations: You can add various cheeses (such as feta or mozzarella) for a richer taste. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley to add new flavors.
- Olive Oil: Instead of butter, you can use olive oil for a healthier option. It adds a distinct flavor and is an excellent choice for vegans.
- Caring for the Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are well-cooked but not overcooked, so they don't turn into mush. They should be hot enough to mix well with the other ingredients.

Nutritional Benefits

This pudding offers an excellent combination of nutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as iron and calcium, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber. Cottage cheese adds quality protein, and yogurt contributes to digestive health.

Calories

A serving of potato and spinach pudding contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good choice for those looking for a filling yet easily digestible meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of vegetable instead of spinach?
Yes, you can use broccoli or zucchini. Make sure to cook them enough to become soft.

- How can I make the pudding lower in calories?
You can reduce the amount of butter and cheese or opt for low-fat versions.

- Is this pudding suitable for freezing?
Yes, the pudding can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Pairing with Other Dishes

This pudding pairs excellently with a fresh green salad, a yogurt sauce with dill, or even with a slice of toasted bread. You can accompany the meal with a glass of white wine or herbal tea, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Personal Note

This potato and spinach pudding is one of my favorite family recipes. Every time I make it, I remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who told me that cooking is a form of art. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! I invite you to try this simple and delicious recipe, to think about your variations, and to enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!