Spinach puree with smoked bacon and fried eggs

Spinach Puree with Smoked Bacon and Fried Eggs

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Discover a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for a healthy and nutritious meal! The spinach puree with smoked bacon and fried eggs combines rich flavors and creamy texture, offering a culinary experience that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients, making it an ideal dish for the whole family.

A brief history
Spinach has been a cherished ingredient for centuries, used in various dishes around the world. Its combination with eggs has been popularized in different cultures as a way to add protein and vitamins, while the addition of smoked bacon gives it a unique, rich flavor. This recipe is often associated with childhood meals, being comforting and full of memories.

Ingredients needed
- 1 kg spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 green bell pepper
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 200 g smoked bacon
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- Olive oil
- A handful of fresh dill
- Salt, pepper, and thyme (to taste)
- 1 egg/serving

Step by step
1. Preparing the bacon
Start by washing the smoked bacon under cold water. Cut it into appropriately sized cubes. To reduce the smokiness, place the bacon in a pot of water and let it boil for 10 minutes. Then, drain the water and repeat the process with fresh water to diminish the smoky flavor.

2. Heating the flavors
In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and sauté them for 5-7 minutes or until they become translucent. Add the finely chopped garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the aroma.

3. Adding the spinach
If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed beforehand. Add the spinach to the skillet, mixing well with the onion and bell pepper. If using fresh spinach, it will significantly reduce in volume as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, then add the smoked bacon.

4. Boiling the ingredients
Pour water over the mixture, about 250 ml, and let it boil. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to combine perfectly.

5. Preparing the puree
After the boiling time has expired, add the diced tomatoes and let it boil for another 5 minutes. Mix the flour with a bit of cold water to avoid lumps, then pour the mixture into the skillet. Stir continuously for 5-10 minutes until the puree thickens and becomes creamy.

6. Finishing the dish
Before serving, finely chop the fresh dill and stir it into the spinach puree. This will add a note of freshness and a wonderful flavor.

7. Cooking the fried eggs
In a separate skillet, add a little olive oil and heat it. Carefully crack the eggs into the skillet, being careful not to break the yolks. Cook them until the whites are firm, but the yolks remain soft. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Serving and suggestions
Serve the spinach puree in deep plates, carefully placing a fried egg in each serving. You can garnish with a few fresh dill leaves for an elegant touch. This dish pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or homemade bread, which will absorb the delicious flavors.

Useful tips
- Fresh vs. frozen spinach: If using fresh spinach, make sure to wash it well and remove the stems. Frozen spinach is convenient and already cleaned, but it may require slightly different cooking time.
- Smoked bacon: Choose a quality bacon, preferably from a local producer. This will significantly influence the final taste of the dish.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the bacon with smoked tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Nutritional information
One serving of this spinach puree contains approximately 300 calories, providing a rich source of vitamins A, C, K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. The eggs add high-quality protein, making this recipe a nutritious choice for any meal of the day.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned spinach?
Yes, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess water in the dish.

- How can I make the puree creamier?
Add a splash of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a richer taste and texture.

- What wine pairs well with this dish?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, is perfect to complement the flavors of the puree.

Enjoy this simple and delicious spinach puree with smoked bacon and fried eggs, perfect for a comforting dinner or a healthy lunch! I encourage you to explore the various ingredient combinations and leave your personal touch on this classic dish. Bon appétit!