German Spinach
German Spinach is a hearty, savory dish featuring tender spinach, crispy bacon, and a creamy egg mixture, perfect for a comforting side or light main meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the spinach until tender, then drain and chop into pieces.
- Saute chopped onion in a small amount of butter or margarine until translucent.
- Add the chopped spinach to the onion and simmer for a few minutes.
- Add a small amount of milk depending on the amount of spinach.
- Beat the egg and add it to the spinach mixture.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and add crumbled bacon.
- Serve the dish warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or omit it entirely. Using frozen spinach can save time; just ensure it is thoroughly drained before cooking. Pair this dish with a side of boiled potatoes or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve German Spinach warm as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled fish. It also pairs beautifully with Boiled Potatoes or Crusty Bread for a comforting meal. Consider garnishing with extra crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spinach mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Spinach contains roughly 87 calories, with 5g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use kale instead of spinach?
Yes, kale can be used as a substitute for spinach, but it requires a longer cooking time to become tender. Chop the kale finely and boil it for a few extra minutes before adding it to the onion mixture.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
While the dish can be frozen, the texture of the spinach may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the egg and adding it fresh when reheating for the best results.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For added flavor, try incorporating grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish. You can also experiment with garlic or herbs like dill for a different twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).