Lenten spinach with puree and soy fritters

Quick fasting food: Spinach with mashed potatoes and soy bits

Who doesn't love a delicious, easy-to-make, and healthy meal? Today, I invite you to discover a simple yet flavorful recipe: spinach with mashed potatoes and soy bits. This dish is not only perfect for fasting days, but it is also an excellent choice for a quick and nutritious meal, packed with vitamins. Moreover, due to the combination of ingredients, it will add a splash of color and flavor to your plate.

The history of this recipe is connected to the tradition of using fresh and simple ingredients that provide healthy and tasty nourishment. Spinach, rich in nutrients and with a slightly sweet taste, pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, while the soy bits add a crunchy texture and an extra protein boost. Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, or simply want to try something new, this recipe is the ideal choice.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh spinach (or frozen)
- 1 medium onion
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons starch
- 150 g textured soy bits
- 1 teaspoon vegetable seasoning (or a vegetable spice mix)
- A little dried thyme
- 800 g potatoes
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 pack margarine (or butter if not fasting)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the spinach: Start by cleaning and washing the spinach well under cold running water. If using frozen spinach, make sure it has thawed before starting to cook. Fresh spinach will be boiled in salted water for about 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain it well, but do not throw away the water! You will use it for your sauce.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a pan, heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the starch and mix well to avoid lumps. Now, pour in the water you boiled the spinach in (about 250-300 ml) and stir constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the tomato paste, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for a few minutes.

3. Preparing the soy bits: Boil the soy bits in about 300 ml of water with a teaspoon of vegetable seasoning for 10 minutes. After boiling, drain them well. In a pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and put in the soy bits, letting them fry on high heat until they brown and become crispy. Turn off the heat and sprinkle a little dried thyme for flavor.

4. Preparing the mashed potatoes: Peel the potatoes, cut them into cubes, and boil them in salted water until a fork easily pierces them. Drain the water but keep a few tablespoons to adjust the consistency of the mash. Add the margarine over the hot potatoes and mash them well. Gradually add water from the one you boiled the potatoes in until you achieve a fluffy and creamy mash.

5. Plating: On a platter, place a layer of mashed potatoes, add the spinach sauce on top, and finish with the crispy soy bits. You can garnish with a little fresh thyme or chopped parsley for an extra splash of color.

Practical tips:
- If you don't have starch, you can use white flour to thicken the sauce, but make sure to add it gradually to avoid lumps.
- You can replace margarine with butter for a richer taste if you're not fasting.
- If you want to add a splash of acidity, you can drizzle the dish with a little lemon juice before serving.

Recommended combinations:
This fasting dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad, adding a crunchy and refreshing contrast. Also, a glass of white wine or a warm herbal tea would beautifully complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent alternative and will save you time. Just make sure to thaw it completely before use.
- What other vegetables can I add? You can include grated carrots or zucchini to enrich the dish and add more vitamins.
- Is this recipe suitable for children? Absolutely! It is a healthy and tasty meal that can be adapted to suit children's preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron and calcium. Soy is an excellent source of plant-based protein, while potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates necessary for energy. This recipe will not only satisfy your hunger but will also provide the nutrients needed for a balanced diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! This quick and tasty fasting dish will surely become your favorite. Enjoy your meal!