How To Make The Best Creamed Spinach

Most creamed spinach recipes are pretty basic and uninspiring. This is soul food and this version changes things!

Indulge in the velvety richness of Creamed Spinach, elevated with the luscious texture of Mexican crema and a hint of fenugreek spice. A harmonious blend that transforms a classic side into a flavorful culinary delight.

Related Green Vegetables Posts:

• Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
• Braised Mustard Greens
• Turnip Greens

My easy Creamed Spinach recipe is a vibrant twist on a timeless classic. I've reimagined this beloved side dish by infusing it with the silky richness of Mexican crema and the aromatic warmth of fenugreek spice. Each bite promises a symphony of textures and flavors, transforming a familiar favorite into an extraordinary flavor bomb experience with just a few ingredients. Get ready to savor the indulgence of velvety spinach like never before.

So whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple weeknight meal, give this creamed spinach a try – you won't be disappointed! Despite it's simplicity, this is by far the best creamed spinach recipe I've had.

This creamed spinach recipe is made with just a few simple ingredients, including fresh spinach, fenugreek seeds, lemon, and Mexican crema. The lemon adds a bright pop of flavor to this dish, while crema adds a rich and creamy texture.

what is fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds are a common spice used in Indian cuisine. They have a slightly bitter taste and are often used to flavor curries and other dishes. Fenugreek seeds are a good source of fiber, protein and vitamins A and C.

Fenugreek is an aromatic herb with small, green leaves and seeds that have been used in culinary and medicinal applications for centuries.

The seeds of fenugreek are particularly popular in various cuisines and are known for their distinct, slightly bitter taste with a hint of maple syrup sweetness. Fenugreek seeds are commonly used as a spice in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African dishes, imparting a unique flavor profile to both savory and sweet recipes.

How Is Fenugreek Used Typically

Fenugreek spice is a versatile ingredient used in various cuisines around the world. Here are some common ways people use fenugreek spice:

1. Curries and Stews:
   • Fenugreek is a staple in Indian cuisine, especially in curry blends. It adds depth and complexity to both vegetarian and meat-based dishes, contributing a slightly bitter and nutty flavor.
2. Spice Blends:
   • Fenugreek is often included in spice blends such as curry powder and garam masala. Its unique taste enhances the overall flavor profile of these blends, creating a well-rounded seasoning for a variety of dishes.
3. Breads and Flatbreads:
   • Fenugreek seeds or ground fenugreek are sometimes added to bread dough or flatbread recipes. This imparts a distinctive flavor to the baked goods, creating a delicious and aromatic result.
4. Pickles and Chutneys:
   • Fenugreek seeds are used in pickling spice blends, adding a tangy and slightly bitter note to pickled vegetables. Additionally, fenugreek leaves (known as kasuri methi) are often included in chutneys for a unique taste.
5. Vegetarian and Lentil Dishes:
   • Fenugreek is a popular addition to vegetarian and lentil-based dishes. It complements the earthy flavors of vegetables and legumes, providing a savory and aromatic element.
6. Teas and Infusions:
   • Fenugreek seeds can be used to make herbal teas or infusions. The seeds are steeped in hot water to create a beverage that is believed to have various health benefits, including aiding digestion.
7. Meat Marinades:
   • In some cuisines, fenugreek is used in meat marinades. It adds depth to the flavor of the meat, and the slightly bitter notes can complement the richness of certain cuts.
8. Sauces and Condiments:
   • Fenugreek can be incorporated into sauces and condiments, enhancing the overall taste. It is often used in tomato-based sauces and gravies, contributing to a well-rounded and savory flavor.

Apart from its culinary uses, fenugreek has been employed in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. It has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-diabetic properties. In some cultures, fenugreek is also used to promote lactation in breastfeeding mothers.

Whether as a spice to enhance the flavor of dishes or as a supplement for its potential health benefits, fenugreek holds a versatile place in various aspects of global cuisine and wellness practices.

What Flavor Does Fenugreek Add To Spinach

Fenugreek seeds can contribute several flavorful and aromatic elements to a creamed spinach recipe:

1. Bitter and Nutty Flavor:
   • Fenugreek seeds have a slightly bitter taste with nutty undertones. This characteristic flavor adds complexity to the creamed spinach, enhancing the overall taste profile.
2. Aromatic Notes:
   • Fenugreek seeds release aromatic compounds when cooked, infusing the creamed spinach with a warm and enticing fragrance. This aromatic quality contributes to the overall sensory experience of the dish.
3. Balancing Element:
   • The slight bitterness of fenugreek can act as a balancing element in the creamed spinach, especially if the dish includes rich and creamy components. It helps cut through the richness, creating a well-balanced flavor.
4. Complementary to Spinach:
   • The earthy and slightly bitter notes of fenugreek pair well with the natural flavors of spinach. This synergy creates a harmonious combination that enhances the taste of the creamed spinach.
5. Unique Twist:
   • Adding fenugreek seeds provides a unique twist to the traditional creamed spinach recipe. It introduces an unexpected flavor element that can elevate the dish and surprise the palate.

Beats and eats (music to pair with creamed spinach)

Spinach is another of those vegetables that don't get enough love. The health benefits are generally obvious, but it's such an easy one to cook and is ready in no time. Yeah it's that dream veggie when seasoned right and the fenugreek, lemon, butter combo does the trick like Tarika Blue does on this "Dreamflower" track which you might recognize from the J Dilla produced track "Didn't Ya Know" performed by Erykah Badu.

ingredients to elevate creamed spinach flavor

Most creamed spinach recipes call for cream cheese, but I changed it up for a little more flavor and tanginess. Spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green that is low in calories and carbs, making it a great choice for those on a ketogenic diet. It's also packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium.

• Fresh Spinach - Fresh is definitely preferred over that frozen chopped spinach stuff. Frozen tends to retain too much water plus it just doesn't have that fresh spinach taste level.
• Butter - adds richness and flavor to creamed spinach. It contributes a creamy and smooth texture, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. The buttery goodness helps balance the earthy notes of the spinach and complements the creamy base, creating a delicious and indulgent side dish.
• Garlic Cloves - adds a savory and aromatic dimension to creamed spinach. Its pungent and slightly sweet flavor enhances the overall taste of the dish, providing a well-rounded and robust profile.
• Fenugreek seeds - adds a unique and slightly bitter, nutty flavor to creamed spinach. It provides a distinctive taste that can be both aromatic and earthy. The addition of fenugreek can elevate the complexity of the dish, contributing depth to the overall flavor profile of the creamed spinach.
• Lemon, juiced - Adding lemon juice to creamed spinach can impart a bright and zesty flavor. Lemon juice brings a burst of citrusy brightness to the creamed spinach. The tangy and refreshing notes cut through the richness of the cream, adding a lively element to each bite.
• Mexican Crema - Adding Mexican crema to creamed spinach can elevate the dish by introducing a rich and velvety texture along with a subtle tang.

how to make keto creamed spinach (step by step instructions)

Preheat large skillet to medium heat. Add the melted butter and olive oil to the pan. Add fenugreek seeds and cook until lightly toasted, about 1 minute. Add minced garlic towards the last 30 seconds of cooking.

Add the raw spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes stirring occasionally.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the spinach and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Stir in crema and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until heated through.

Serve topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

What To Serve With Creamy Spinach

Creamed spinach pairs nicely with seafood, including baked or grilled fish, shrimp, or scallops. The creaminess balances the lighter taste of seafood.

1. Stuffed Chicken or Turkey:
   • Creamed spinach works well as a stuffing for chicken breasts or turkey. The combination of creamy spinach and savory poultry creates a delicious contrast.
2. Baked Potatoes or Mashed Potatoes:
   • Creamed spinach can be served over baked potatoes or mixed into mashed potatoes, creating a tasty and creamy side dish.
3. Vegetarian Options:
   • Pair creamed spinach with vegetarian mains like grilled portobello mushrooms, vegetable lasagna, or stuffed peppers for a satisfying meatless meal.
4. Grains and Legumes:
   • Serve creamed spinach alongside grains like quinoa, couscous, or lentils for a well-balanced and nutritious meal.
5. Grilled Vegetables:
   • Pair creamed spinach with grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or eggplant for a flavorful and vibrant side.

Cooking Tips and Considerations for Making Creamed Spinach

If you can't find crema, you can substitute heavy cream or sour cream.

If you don't have fenugreek seeds, you can use ground fenugreek powder. Fenugreek is not a popular spice, but you can find it in any respectable spice shop.

Toast the seeds first so that their flavor is released more fully. Don't heat at too high a temperature as you don't want to burn the seeds.

Allow the toasted seeds to steep in the oil/butter mixture

If you don't have lemon, you can use lime juice in a pinch instead.

I prefer to use full fresh spinach vs. the smaller fresh baby spinach used in salads. I find that baby spinach wilts too much during cooking which changes the texture of the dish quite a bit.

This dish can be served hot or cold.

Leftover creamed spinach can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use leftovers to make spinach quesadillas or combine with artichoke and make a rich dip!

Serve as is or top with parmesan cheese. Pair it with smoked chicken thighs, blackened redfish, fried chicken, or grilled shrimp.

Why Use Mexican Crema

Mexican crema is an elevator! It levels up the dish both texturally and flavor-wise. Here's how the addition of Mexican crema enhances creamed spinach:

1. Creaminess and Silky Texture:
   • Mexican crema, with its higher fat content, contributes a luxurious creaminess to the dish. It creates a silky and velvety texture that coats the spinach well, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
2. Tangy Note:
   • Mexican crema has a mild tanginess that adds a delightful and nuanced flavor to the creamed spinach. This subtle tang complements the earthy taste of spinach, creating a well-balanced and flavorful combination.
3. Richness Without Heaviness:
   • The addition of Mexican crema adds richness to the creamed spinach without making it overly heavy. The balance between the creamy texture and tangy notes provides a satisfying and indulgent experience.
4. Cultural Twist:
   • Using Mexican crema introduces a cultural twist to the dish, infusing it with the flavors often found in Mexican cuisine. This unique touch can make the creamed spinach stand out as a more globally inspired and interesting side dish.
5. Culinary Flexibility:
   • Mexican crema can withstand heat better than some other dairy products, making it suitable for cooking. Its stability during cooking ensures that the creamed spinach retains its creamy consistency.

When adding Mexican crema to creamed spinach, start by incorporating a small amount and adjust according to taste preferences. This way, you can achieve the desired level of creaminess and tang, creating a creamed spinach dish that is both indulgent and culturally inspired.

Variations and Substitutions

There are numerous creative variations on creamed spinach to add diversity and unique flavors to this classic dish. Here are some delicious ideas:

1. Garlic Parmesan Creamed Spinach:
   • Infuse the creamed spinach with the robust flavors of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese for a savory and aromatic twist.
2. Bacon and Gruyère Creamed Spinach:
   • Enhance the dish with crispy bacon bits and the nutty richness of Gruyère cheese, creating a combination of smokiness and indulgent creaminess.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Creamed Spinach:
   • Infuse a touch of heat by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes, creating a spicy creamed spinach variation that pairs well with bold flavors.
4. Curry Creamed Spinach:
   • Introduce an even more exotic twist with curry spices, turmeric, and coconut milk, resulting in a creamy spinach dish with a hint of warmth and aromatic spices.
   If Mexican crema is not available, you can substitute it with other dairy products to achieve a similar creaminess and tang. Here are some alternatives for Mexican crema:
   1. Sour Cream:
      • Sour cream is a readily available substitute for Mexican crema. It has a similar tangy flavor and creamy consistency. Adjust the quantity to achieve the desired level of creaminess.
   2. Greek Yogurt:
      • Greek yogurt is thicker than regular yogurt and provides a rich and tangy alternative to Mexican crema. It can be used as a 1:1 substitute.
   3. Crème Fraîche:
      • Crème fraîche is a cultured cream with a mild tang. It is thicker than Mexican crema but can be thinned down with a bit of milk to achieve a similar consistency.
   4. Plain Yogurt:
      • Regular plain yogurt, though less thick than Greek yogurt, can still work as a substitute. You may want to strain it through cheesecloth to thicken it slightly.
   5. Milk and Heavy Cream Blend:
      • Mix equal parts milk and heavy cream to create a blend that approximates the consistency of Mexican crema. This blend can be used in recipes that call for crema.

If you don't have fenugreek seeds on hand, there are several substitutes you can use in your recipes. Keep in mind that each substitute may have its own unique flavor, so consider the specific taste profile you're aiming for. Here are some good substitutes for fenugreek seeds:

1. Maple Syrup:
   • For a similar sweet and slightly bitter flavor, you can use maple syrup. Use it sparingly, as it is sweeter than fenugreek seeds.
2. Fennel Seeds:
   • Fennel seeds have a mild licorice flavor and can provide a slightly sweet and aromatic note to your dishes. Use them in moderation as they can be strong.
3. Yellow Mustard Seeds:
   • Yellow mustard seeds offer a mild, slightly bitter flavor. They can be used as a substitute for fenugreek seeds in pickles, curry blends, or spice mixes.
4. Cumin Seeds:
   • Cumin seeds have a warm, earthy flavor and can be used as a substitute for fenugreek seeds in some recipes, particularly in spice blends and Indian dishes.
5. Curry Powder:
   • Curry powder often contains fenugreek, so using it as a substitute can impart a similar flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Creamed Spinach

What is creamed spinach?

Creamed spinach is a dish made with cooked spinach that has been seasoned and usually thickened with cream. It can be served hot or cold, and is often found on menus as a side dish or appetizer.

Is creamed spinach keto-friendly?

Yes, this creamed spinach recipe is keto-friendly. Spinach is a low carb leafy green, and the other ingredients in this recipe are also low in carbs.

Can I substitute something for the crema?

If you can't find crema, you can substitute heavy cream, cream cheese, or sour cream.

Can I use Bagged Frozen Spinach?

You can yes, but I don't recommend it. Frozen spinach carries a lot of water, so flavor could be diluted some given the moisture.

How Do You Store Creamed Spinach?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For other easy side dish recipes, try these:

Stewed Okra

Cream Style Corn

Spinach Salad

Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts

Cucumber Salad

Collard Greens Slaw

Grilled Corn on the Cob

make the best creamed spinach recipe

This creamed spinach recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this nutrient-rich leafy green. It's perfect for a quick and healthy side dish or even as a main course. And, it's keto-friendly!

If you make this twist on a classic creamed spinach please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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