Spinach is one of the healthiest leafy vegetables, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, because it grows close to the soil, spinach often carries dirt, mud, and tiny insects hidden between the leaves. Washing it thoroughly is essential to make it safe to eat.
Blanching spinach is equally important, especially if you plan to store it for later. This process helps maintain its bright green colour, soft texture, and nutritional value. Skipping or rushing these steps can affect the quality of the spinach.
Here are some easy and effective ways to wash and blanch spinach at home. These simple methods will help you enjoy fresh, clean, and long-lasting spinach every time.
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7 Easy Steps to Wash and Blanch Spinach
How to Wash Spinach
Step 1: Remove and Sort the Leaves
Separate the spinach leaves from thick stems. Discard wilted, yellow, or damaged leaves so you only use fresh spinach.
Step 2: First Water Soak
Place the leaves in a large bowl of water. Let them soak for 2-3 minutes so heavy dirt and sand settle at the bottom.
Step 3: Gentle Swirling
Swirl the leaves gently with your hands to remove hidden mud and tiny insects without bruising the leaves.
Step 4: Final Rinse
Lift the leaves out carefully and rinse them under running water to remove any remaining impurities.
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How to Blanch Spinach
Step 1: Prepare Boiling Water
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Adding a little salt helps retain the spinach's natural colour.
Step 2: Blanch Briefly
Add spinach to the boiling water and cook for 30-45 seconds until the leaves soften and shrink.
Step 3: Cool Immediately
Transfer the spinach to ice-cold water to stop cooking and preserve its bright green colour.
Storage Tips for Spinach
- Squeeze out excess water before storing
- Store washed spinach in a dry, airtight container
- Keep fresh spinach in the refrigerator
- Freeze blanched spinach for long-term use
- Label containers with the storage date
Proper washing and blanching keep spinach clean, fresh, and nutritious for longer. By following these steps, you can enjoy better taste, improved safety, and less food waste in your daily cooking.