Recipe Vegan Cheese and Onion Flavour Dehydrated Spinach Crisps from www.planetveggie.co.uk
Introduction
Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a great addition to any meal and can be eaten fresh, cooked, or even dehydrated. Dehydrated spinach is a great way to preserve the vegetable and use it in various dishes. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make dehydrated spinach.
Ingredients
To make dehydrated spinach, you will need the following ingredients:
1 bunch of fresh spinach
Water
Salt
Instructions
Step 1: Wash the Spinach
The first step in making dehydrated spinach is to wash the spinach thoroughly. Rinse the spinach leaves under cold running water and remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Blanch the Spinach
Blanching the spinach will help to preserve its color and nutrients. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the spinach leaves and blanch for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Cool the Spinach
After blanching, remove the spinach from the pot and place it in a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and cool the spinach quickly.
Step 4: Drain and Dry the Spinach
Drain the spinach and pat it dry with a clean towel or paper towel. Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible.
Step 5: Arrange the Spinach on Dehydrator Trays
Arrange the spinach leaves on the dehydrator trays, making sure to leave enough space between each leaf for air to circulate.
Step 6: Dehydrate the Spinach
Set your dehydrator to 125°F and let the spinach dehydrate for 6-8 hours. Check the spinach after 6 hours and continue dehydrating until it is completely dry and crispy.
Step 7: Store the Dehydrated Spinach
Once the spinach is completely dry, remove it from the dehydrator and let it cool. Store the dehydrated spinach in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It will last for several months if stored properly.
Nutrition
Dehydrated spinach is a great source of vitamins and minerals. It is low in calories and high in fiber. One cup of dehydrated spinach contains approximately:
46 calories
5 grams of protein
8 grams of fiber
16% of the recommended daily intake of iron
15% of the recommended daily intake of calcium
10% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A
25% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C
Ways to Use Dehydrated Spinach
Dehydrated spinach can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
Add it to soups and stews for extra nutrition and flavor
Sprinkle it on top of salads or roasted vegetables
Use it as a pizza topping
Blend it into a smoothie for a nutrient boost
Mix it into omelets or frittatas
Conclusion
Dehydrated spinach is a great way to preserve this nutrient-rich vegetable and use it in a variety of dishes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make your own dehydrated spinach at home. Not only is it easy to do, but it is also a great way to add more nutrition to your meals.
