Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach Recipe
Creamed spinach is a delicious and comforting side dish that can elevate your dinner table. In this article, we will explore the delightful Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach recipe, a favorite from the renowned steakhouse that brings a rich, creamy texture and a depth of flavor to your meals. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up this creamed spinach recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly tasty, combining the vibrant flavor of fresh spinach with a luscious cream sauce. The texture is creamy and smooth, making it a perfect complement to meats, especially steak. Additionally, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens into your meal, making it a nutritious option for diners of all ages. Best of all, this dish is fairly straightforward to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own home.
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach
Preparing Ruth’s Chrisized Creamed Spinach is a simple process that yields outstanding results. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready to serve in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs finely chopped spinach
- 2 cups milk
- 1 piece of clove
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup chopped onion
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 tbsp butter
Directions
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Prepare the Spinach: Begin by washing and cleaning the spinach thoroughly. Remove any tough stems. Once cleaned, finely chop the spinach into small pieces.
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Melt the Butter: In a pot, heat 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it’s fully melted.
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Create the Roux: Slowly sprinkle in the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, mixing well to create a paste. This will be the base of your creamy sauce.
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Infuse Flavor: Add the bay leaf, chopped onion, and whole clove to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
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Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Continue to stir as the mixture heats up.
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Simmer the Sauce: Once it reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remember to remove the bay leaf and clove from the pot before proceeding.
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Cook the Spinach: In a separate pot, add the chopped spinach and cook for about 1-2 minutes until tender.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooked spinach to a food processor and finely chop it. Pour the spinach into the heated flour and milk sauce, and combine everything well.
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Finish Cooking: Stir the mixture for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the flavors blend perfectly.
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Serve: Dish out the Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach and serve hot. Enjoy this delightful side dish!
Pro Tips for Success with Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach
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Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach yields the best flavor and texture. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach as a substitute; just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess water.
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Don’t Rush the Roux: Take your time when making the roux to ensure that the flour combines well with the butter. This base is crucial for the creaminess of the dish.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. A little sprinkle of salt or pepper can enhance the overall flavor.
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Experiment with Cheese: Adding a bit of grated Parmesan or cream cheese into the mixture can add extra richness to the dish.
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Serve it Warm: Creamed spinach is best served immediately, as it can thicken when cooled. If reheating, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Flavor Variations for Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach
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Cheesy Spinach: Mix in some shredded cheese like Gruyère or cheddar for an extra cheesy flavor.
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Garlic Lovers: Add minced garlic when sautéing the onions for a robust garlic flavor.
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Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful heat for those who enjoy a bit of spiciness.
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Mushroom Addition: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, earthy addition that complements the spinach beautifully.
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Nutmeg Hint: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg into the milk mixture for hints of warmth and depth.
Serving Suggestions for Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach
Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach pairs exquisitely with various dishes. Here are some ideal serving suggestions:
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Steak: Serve as a classic accompaniment to a perfectly grilled steak for a gourmet experience.
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Roast Chicken: The creaminess complements the savory flavors of roasted chicken wonderfully.
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Seafood: Pair with grilled or baked fish for a delightful contrast of flavors.
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Pasta: Use it as a sauce over pasta, creating a unique and creamy dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.
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Quiche Filling: Incorporate it as a filling in a quiche for a spin on your savory breakfast options.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach
If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, here’s how to store it properly:
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Refrigerating: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture, and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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Freezing: Creamed spinach can also be frozen. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months. To use, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Value | Amount |
|——————-|—————-|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 410mg |
FAQ About Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach
What can I use instead of butter for a dairy-free version?
For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil. This will still create a delicious roux, ensuring that the essence of the dish remains intact without dairy.
How can I adjust the creaminess of the dish?
To make the creamed spinach richer, you can add heavy cream instead of milk, or incorporate cream cheese for a thicker, creamier texture. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter version, using less milk or opting for a low-fat milk can help achieve that.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it just before serving. Just remember to add a little milk during reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it primarily uses vegetables and dairy products. For those who want to make it vegan, simply swap out the milk and butter for plant-based alternatives (almond milk, coconut milk, or olive oil).
Can I add meat or other proteins to this dish?
While traditional creamed spinach is a side dish, you can certainly make it a main by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even bacon. This provides a hearty touch and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
What goes well with Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach?
This side dish pairs well with a variety of main courses, including grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked fish. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or a quinoa bowl for a balanced plate.
Final Thoughts
Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach is a comfort food classic that brings elegance to any meal. With its rich, creamy texture and the subtle flavors of spinach, this dish is sure to become a staple on your dinner table. Opting for fresh ingredients, experimenting with flavors, and following our pro tips will ensure you achieve the best results. Enjoy this delightful side dish with your favorite proteins and savor every delicious bite!
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Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy creamed spinach recipe inspired by the famous steakhouse, perfect as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs finely chopped spinach
- 2 cups milk
- 1 piece of clove
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup chopped onion
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Wash and clean the spinach thoroughly, removing tough stems, and finely chop.
- In a pot, heat 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted.
- Slowly sprinkle in the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, mixing well to create a roux.
- Add the bay leaf, chopped onion, and whole clove to the roux and stir to combine.
- Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk, eliminating lumps as the mixture heats up.
- Once it reaches a gentle boil, reduce heat and let it simmer for a few minutes, then remove the bay leaf and clove.
- In a separate pot, cook the chopped spinach for about 1-2 minutes until tender.
- Transfer the cooked spinach to a food processor and finely chop it.
- Pour the spinach into the flour and milk sauce, combining everything well.
- Stir for an additional 5 minutes to blend flavors before serving hot.
Notes
Use fresh spinach for best results. If using frozen, thaw and drain well. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American