Spinach is one of the popular superfoods as they are loaded with nutrients and have the perfect flavors for people who like vegetarian recipes. However, cooking the spinach takes finesse which is why many people are concerned about frozen vs fresh spinach equivalents. So, if you are contemplating the same, we have bits of information that might help!
Frozen vs Fresh Spinach Equivalents
In the majority of cases, the frozen spinach is available in the 10oz. packages and you need to drain the spinach when you thaw the spinach. This is because spinach produces excess water. As far as the equivalency is concerned, the 10 oz. package of the frozen package is equal to one pound of raw or fresh spinach. Having that said, if you are purchasing fresh spinach, it is suggested to purchase more spinach because you might have to cut off some stalks and trim them. So, when the stalks are trimmed off, the spinach’s weight will reduce and cooking will reduce it even more. For this reason, you need to cook spinach to 1.5 cups as it’s equal to 10 oz. frozen spinach.
When it comes down to fresh spinach, you must understand that it’s more fibrous and when cooked, it will be drained. However, cooking fresh spinach ensures that you are getting the fresh flavors and you have the choice to season it as you like. The fresh spinach can be used as sautéed dish for sides and in salads. As far as cooking is concerned, it is suggested to cut down your fresh spinach into smaller pieces and opt for a nonstick pan. Once the spinach is cooked properly, you can remove it from the stove, add some colander, drain out excess water, and cool it down.
Substituting Fresh Spinach In Place Of Frozen Spinach
When using the frozen spinach, you can use the package of the frozen spinach and defrost it and squeeze it dry. Honestly, it’s a convenient choice since it is convenient to use and is optimal for drops. However, fresh spinach is always more welcomed to make dips because it has a fresh flavor. So, if you want to use fresh spinach in place of frozen spinach to make a dip, we have outlined the instructions that you should follow;
- Start by removing the tough and long steams of spinach
- Add the fresh spinach to your nonstick pan and set the stove to a medium or high heat
- Start cooking the spinach by stirring it and keep on till the spinach is properly cooked (it will take around three to four minutes)
- Once the spinach is cooked up, you must cool it down and take it out on the cutting board
- When on the cutting board, you need to chop the spinach
- Now, use your hands to squeeze out the liquid as much as possible
This is the ultimate way of using fresh spinach in place of frozen spinach for making dips or for other recipes. In addition, it’s a great way of using fresh spinach if it’s about to expire. Also, when you cook fresh spinach this way, you can put the chopped spinach in your freezer bag and use it in the future, however you like.
Freezing The Fresh Spinach – The Right Process To Follow
To begin with, it’s not suggested to freeze raw spinach because it has a wilted and soft texture as soon as it starts thawing out. On the other hand, if you follow the correct freezing method, you will be able to store the spinach for over twelve to fourteen months. For storing the spinach in the freezer, you can follow the below-mentioned steps to help yourself;
- Wash the fresh spinach and cut out the leaves that seem dull
- Boil the spinach and provide quick blanching for one to two minutes as it will help preserve the color, texture, nutrients, and flavor of your spinach
- Now, drain the leaves and put them in ice-cold water for over two to five minutes. This is great for cutting down the cooking process and starts revitalizing the leaves
- Then, squeeze out the moisture and water and make portions
- When the spinach is frozen, bag them up and you have the frozen spinach for future use
So, will you use frozen spinach or fresh spinach?