Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach

Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe

Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach is a delightful side dish that elevates any meal with its rich and creamy flavor. Whether it’s served alongside a juicy steak or as part of a vegetarian spread, this dish is sure to please any palate.

Why Make This Recipe

Creamed spinach is not just a side dish; it’s an experience. The velvety texture and savory taste make it a favorite in many households. Making Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach at home is surprisingly simple and allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without the hefty bill. It’s perfect for special occasions, holidays, or just as a comforting addition to your everyday dinner. Plus, the recipe is adaptable, allowing you to incorporate your own twists while ensuring you have a delicious, nourishing dish to share.

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach

Ingredients

To prepare Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach, you will need:

• 2 lbs Finely chopped spinach
• 2 cups Milk
• 1 piece Clove
• ¼ cup All-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup Chopped onion
• 1 Bay leaf
• 6 tbsp Butter

Directions

1. First, wash and clean the spinach carefully. Remove any tough stems and chop the spinach into small pieces.
2. In a large pot, heat it gently and begin to add butter. Allow the butter to melt completely.
3. Once the butter has melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and mix it well to create a smooth paste.
4. Add the bay leaf, chopped onion, and clove to the mixture, stirring continuously.
5. Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk, ensuring that no lumps form during this process. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
6. After simmering, remove the bay leaf and clove from the pot.
7. In a separate pot, place the chopped spinach and cook it until tender, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
8. After the spinach is tender, transfer it to a processor and chop it finely.
9. Return to the original pot and heat the flour and milk sauce again. Add the finely chopped and cooked spinach to the sauce.
10. Combine everything well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach is now ready to be served. Dish out and enjoy – Bon Appétit!

Pro Tips for Success with Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach

1. Quality Ingredients: Use fresh spinach whenever possible. If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out the excess water before cooking.
2. Maintain Consistency: Make sure to whisk your milk into the flour mixture continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Flavor Enhancements: A bit of garlic powder or nutmeg can add an extra dimension of flavor.
4. Texture Control: For a chunkier version, you can leave some spinach pieces unchopped or reduce the fine chopping process.
5. Make Ahead: You can make this dish a day in advance; just heat it gently on the stove before serving.
6. Stay Vigilant: Keep an eye on your sauce as it simmers, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Flavor Variations for Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach

1. Cheesy Spinach: Add grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese to the sauce for a cheesy twist.
2. Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: A dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can spice up the dish.
4. Herb Infusion: Using fresh herbs like thyme or dill will enhance the flavor and freshness.
5. Creamy Touch: Substitute some of the milk with heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach

Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. It complements grilled steaks, roasted chicken, and baked fish. You can also serve it alongside a hearty pasta dish or as part of a vegetarian spread with roasted vegetables and grains. For an elegant presentation, serve the creamed spinach in individual ramekins or alongside a festive buffet.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you want to freeze the creamed spinach for a longer shelf life, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove while adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|——————|————–|
| Calories | 215 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 450mg |

FAQ About Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh spinach is not available. Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water to prevent the dish from becoming watery.

How can I make this dish lighter?

If you’re looking to reduce the calories, consider using low-fat milk or substituting some of the butter with a light spread. You can also skip the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option by thickening with cornstarch or another alternative.

Can I add meat to the creamed spinach?

Of course! You can incorporate cooked bacon or diced ham for an additional flavor profile. Simply add it in during the final steps of combining with the sauce.

How do I ensure my sauce is smooth without lumps?

The key to a smooth sauce is to whisk the milk into the flour mixture gradually and continuously. Make sure the butter is melted evenly and that the heat is not too high when adding the milk.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach is great for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach is a deliciously rich and creamy dish that can transform any meal into a remarkable experience. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can create this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen. As you enjoy its decadent flavor, feel free to experiment with the suggested variations and make the dish your own. So gather your ingredients, unleash your culinary creativity, and relish the comfort of home-cooked goodness!

Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful side dish that elevates any meal with its rich and creamy flavor, perfect alongside steak or as part of a vegetarian spread.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs finely chopped spinach
• 2 cups milk
• 1 piece clove
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup chopped onion
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 tbsp butter

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Instructions

1. Wash and clean the spinach, removing tough stems and chopping finely.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and mix well to create a smooth paste.
4. Add the bay leaf, chopped onion, and clove; stir continuously.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer.
6. Remove the bay leaf and clove from the pot.
7. In a separate pot, cook the chopped spinach until tender (about 1-2 minutes).
8. Transfer spinach to a processor and chop finely.
9. Add the chopped spinach to the sauce in the original pot.
10. Combine well and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve hot.

Notes

Use fresh spinach for the best flavor. Make ahead and reheat gently before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 215
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 30mg