Spinach with pork and rice

Spinach with Pork and Rice - A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Spinach, a vegetable with a distinct taste and highly nutritious, is the main ingredient of this recipe that perfectly blends the flavors of pork with fluffy rice. This dish is not only tasty but also comforting, making it ideal for a family meal or to impress friends. Additionally, the protein-rich pork and vitamin-packed spinach make this recipe an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Ingredients

- 300 g lean pork (preferably leg or shoulder)
- 4 medium onions
- 700 g frozen spinach (or fresh if available)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons of rice (preferably long-grain for better texture)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary utensils

- A pot or deep saucepan
- A kitchen knife
- A wooden spatula
- A measuring spoon
- A cutting board

Preparation steps

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling the onions. Slice them thinly so they can sauté evenly and release their aroma.

2. Sauté the onion: In a pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and lightly golden.

3. Add the meat: Cut the pork into small cubes so it cooks quickly and evenly. Add the meat to the pot over the onion and let it sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned.

4. Incorporate the rice: Once the meat is browned, add the rice to the pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients and allow the rice to absorb the flavors.

5. Add water: Pour in enough water to cover the meat and rice mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.

6. Add the spinach: When the water starts to boil, add the frozen spinach. If using fresh spinach, make sure to wash it well and chop it into smaller pieces. Add salt and pepper to taste.

7. Cook the mixture: Let everything simmer on low heat for about 25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquids. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

8. Add the garlic: Finally, chop the 2 garlic cloves and add them to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to release the garlic aroma.

Serving suggestions

This dish can be served plain, but for an extra flavor boost, try adding a soft-boiled egg on top. The egg will add a creamy texture and delicious taste. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.

Variations and tips

- Meat variations: If you want to experiment, try replacing the pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Adding spices: For a more intense flavor, you can add spices like paprika, turmeric, or even a little chili pepper.
- Fresh spinach: If using fresh spinach, make sure to wash it well and add it to the pot a few minutes earlier to allow it to wilt.

Nutritional information

This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork and packed with vitamins from the spinach. Per serving, the dish contains approximately 450-500 kcal, depending on the exact amount of meat and oil used. Additionally, spinach is an excellent source of iron, calcium, and vitamins A and K.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of rice?
Yes, you can use basmati or arborio rice, but the cooking time may vary.

2. If I don’t have garlic, what can I use?
You can omit the garlic or use a mix of herbs to add flavor.

3. How can I store leftovers?
You can keep the dish in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat well before serving.

Enjoy! This spinach with pork and rice recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for any occasion. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt it to your taste!