Spinach is one of the extremely he althy vegetables. In addition to lots of vitamin C, it contains beta-carotene and all important minerals. However, the juicy green leaves must be washed and cleaned thoroughly before consumption. You can find out how to do this in this article.
How do you wash and clean spinach correctly?
Washing and cleaning spinach is easy: pour cold water into the sink, pluck the spinach leaves from the stems and add them to the water, move them carefully with both hands, remove them from the water and place them in a sieve. Repeat the process until the water remains clean.
After purchase
Do not store spinach for longer than two days. However, be sure to remove the plastic packaging, as the spinach will quickly begin to rot in it. Instead, wrap the leaves in a slightly damp kitchen towel and place them loosely in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator.
Wash spinach
As soil and dirt can stick to the leaves, they must be washed thoroughly before preparation:
- Start by pouring cold water into the sink.
- Pluck the spinach leaves from the stems and add them.
- Sort out unsightly leaves.
- Move carefully in the water with both hands.
- Remove and place in a colander.
- Pour fresh water into the sink and repeat the process until the water remains completely clean.
If the vegetables are to be cooked, the spinach does not need to be spun out. Add this directly to the cooking pot and do not add any more liquid.
Young, tender spinach tastes great in salads. To ensure that the dressing sticks well, place the cleaned leaves in a salad spinner and dry them thoroughly.
Cooking spinach properly
In order to retain as many nutrients as possible, spinach should only be steamed for a very short time. Place the dripping wet leaves in portions in a pot and let them collapse.
Then season the vegetables with a sautéed onion, s alt, pepper and a little nutmeg. If you like, you can strain the spinach and refine it with a little cream.
The aromatic leaves, left whole, go great in soups, gratins, casseroles or pizza.
Tip
Reheated spinach does not harm he althy adults. However, it is important to put the prepared vegetables in the refrigerator immediately after they have cooled. Tip off the cooking water beforehand, as it contains a lot of harmful oxalic acid.
