Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound fresh spinach leaves, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons smen (Moroccan clarified butter)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the smen in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cumin and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the spinach leaves and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted and tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
10-15 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving size: 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Smen can be substituted with regular butter or ghee.
- Cumin can be substituted with coriander or paprika.
Variations:
- Add chopped onions or shallots to the skillet before adding the garlic.
- Add sliced mushrooms or diced tomatoes to the skillet with the spinach.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Use fresh spinach leaves for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet with spinach, as it will release water and steam instead of sautéing.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the spinach before serving for extra flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Smen-sautéed spinach can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the spinach in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the spinach in a shallow bowl or on a platter.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley.
Pairings:
- Smen-sautéed spinach pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with couscous, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the spinach releases too much water, remove it from the skillet and drain the excess liquid before returning it to the skillet to finish cooking.
Food safety advice:
- Wash the spinach thoroughly before using to remove any dirt or debris.
Food history:
- Smen is a traditional Moroccan ingredient made by clarifying butter and fermenting it for several months to develop a tangy, nutty flavor.
Flavor profiles:
- Smen-sautéed spinach has a savory, buttery flavor with hints of garlic and cumin.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the spinach as a side dish or as a vegetarian main dish.
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