Cooking with wild spinach: 5 must-try recipes
What's the story
African wild spinach, or amaranth greens, is an extremely versatile leafy green. It can be incorporated into a range of culinary delights. Apart from its rich nutritional profile, it can add a unique flavor and texture to your dishes. Here are five innovative ways to incorporate African wild spinach into your recipes. These ways enhance both taste and health benefits. From smoothies to savory dishes, here's how this green can transform your meals.
Green smoothie
Smoothies with a twist
Adding African wild spinach to smoothies is also a great way to enhance their nutritional value. Its mild flavor mixes well with fruits such as bananas and berries, providing an additional dose of vitamins A and C. Just blend a handful of these greens with your choice of fruits, yogurt, or plant-based milk for a refreshing drink supporting your overall health.
Baked delights
Savory pies and pastries
Incorporating African wild spinach into savory pies or pastries adds depth and nutrition. The greens can be sauteed with onions and garlic before being mixed into fillings for pies or turnovers. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides essential nutrients like iron and calcium, making your baked goods both delicious and wholesome.
Quick stir-fry
Stir-fry sensations
African wild spinach works wonderfully in stir-fry dishes. Since the vegetable retains its texture when cooking it quickly over high heat, you can pair it with some vegetables (bell peppers or carrots) along with tofu or paneer for a nutritious meal option. Not only does the quick cooking method helps the vitamins stay intact, but you can also add some vibrant color to the dish.
Hearty soup
Nutritious soups
Adding African wild spinach to soups enriches them with nutrients without overpowering other flavors. It goes well with ingredients such as lentils or beans in hearty soups perfect for cooler weather. Simply chop the leaves finely before stirring them into simmering broth towards the end of cooking time.
Fresh salad
Creative salads
Use fresh African wild spinach leaves as a part of salads for an interesting twist on traditional greens like lettuce or kale. Combine them with other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, nuts, seeds, and dressings made from olive oil or lemon juice for added zestiness. Enjoy their crisp texture along with other salad components.