Spinach and milk dumplings

Delicious Potato Balls with Spinach Sauce Recipe

In a world full of flavors and textures, potato balls with spinach sauce are an excellent choice for a quick lunch or a delicious dinner, perfect for impressing family and friends. This simple yet savory recipe combines classic ingredients to create a dish that will delight every taste bud. So, get ready to tantalize your senses and discover all the details needed to achieve the perfect result!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the balls:
- 600 g boiled potatoes (peeled, grated with a fine grater)
- 150 g grated cheese
- 100 g sheep cheese (or feta cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 2 egg whites
- 100 g sesame seeds (lightly toasted)
- Himalayan salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (for color and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons white flour
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
- 250 ml sunflower oil (for frying)

For the spinach sauce:
- 450 g canned spinach (or fresh, if preferred)
- 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 200 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch, diluted in 50 ml milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste

The story behind the recipe

Potato balls are a cherished dish in many cultures, with a rich history dating back centuries. They are often considered a comfort food, full of flavor, and the combination with spinach sauce adds extra nutrients and an unmistakable flavor. Spinach, rich in iron and vitamins, perfectly complements the crispy texture of the balls, turning them into a healthy and tasty delight.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the potatoes:
Boil the potatoes with the skin until soft. Once cooled, peel and grate them with a fine grater. This step is essential to achieve a fine and homogeneous texture for the balls.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the grated potatoes, cheese, sheep cheese, beaten egg whites, toasted sesame seeds, turmeric, flour, salt and pepper, and chopped dill. Mix all the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until you get a homogeneous mixture. It is important not to overmix to keep the balls fluffy.

3. Heating the oil:
In a small pot, add the sunflower oil and let it heat over medium heat. Make sure the oil is deep enough to fry the balls evenly. A simple way to check if the oil is ready is to throw in a small piece of dough; if it sizzles, it's time to start frying.

4. Shaping the balls:
With wet hands, form balls of the desired size (usually about the size of a golf ball) from the mixture obtained. This step is essential to achieve perfectly round and uniform balls.

5. Frying the balls:
Carefully place the balls in the hot oil bath. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Use a spatula to turn them gently. Once done, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

6. Preparing the spinach sauce:
In a skillet, add the olive oil and chopped garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute, being careful not to burn it, then add the canned spinach. If using fresh spinach, make sure to wash it well and chop it finely. Add the milk and let everything come to a boil.

7. Thickening the sauce:
Dilute the cornstarch in cold milk and add it to the spinach sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and reaches the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serving:
Serve the potato balls hot, alongside the spinach sauce. You can also add some toasted bread croutons or a fresh salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tips

- Ingredient variations: You can add other cheeses to the ball mixture, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, for a different flavor. Additionally, you can replace the sesame seeds with breadcrumbs for a crunchier crust.
- Storing the balls: If you have leftover balls, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy crust.
- Substitutions: If you don't have sheep cheese on hand, you can use cottage cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.

Nutritional information

Each serving of potato balls with spinach sauce contains approximately:

- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

These balls are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and protein, and the spinach sauce adds a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can add a sweet flavor and vibrant color to your balls.

2. How can I make the balls healthier?
Replace the sunflower oil with olive oil and bake them instead of frying in oil.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices to complement the meal.

Potato balls with spinach sauce are not just a delicious dish but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together at the table. So, don't hesitate to try them and share your culinary experience! Enjoy your meal!