Velvet Creamed Spinach Soup
Velvet creamed spinach soup offers a smooth, rich flavor with subtle nutmeg and hints of cream, perfect for cozy gatherings or elegant starters for spinach lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook chopped onion in butter until tender but not brown.
- Stir in chopped spinach and season with salt, pepper, sugar, and nutmeg.
- Add chicken broth, cover, and cook over low heat for 15 minutes.
- Work the spinach mixture through a sieve or blend in a blender until smooth.
- Make a smooth paste of flour and 1/2 cup milk, then stir into the pureed spinach.
- Add 2 cups milk and cook over low heat, stirring until thickened and boiling for about 3 minutes, then simmer for 3 more minutes.
- Beat egg yolks with 1/2 cup milk or light cream.
- Gradually pour the egg mixture into the hot soup, stirring constantly. Do not boil after adding the cream.
- Serve hot with cheese straws.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use a high-speed blender to puree the soup thoroughly. Fresh spinach is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but frozen spinach can be a convenient substitute. If you want a lighter version, replace some of the milk with vegetable broth. Adding a tablespoon of lemon juice can brighten the flavor. Consider serving with cheese straws for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with cheese straws, making it a great appetizer for a gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation. If the soup thickens, add a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Velvet Creamed Spinach Soup contains roughly 624 calories, with 11g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1194mg per serving (52% 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 make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance. Just prepare the soup up to step 8, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit more milk if needed to restore the creamy texture before serving.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. This will maintain the flavor profile while keeping the soup meat-free. You can also use homemade broth if you have it on hand, which adds a personal touch to the dish.
How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and nutmeg according to your preference. Start with smaller amounts and taste as you go. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce, which can complement the spinach nicely.
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).