Potato and spinach pie is a rich and tasty dish, ideal for a family lunch or a special occasion. This preparation combines the sweetness of potatoes with the freshness of spinach, creating a balance of flavors and textures. In this guide, we will explore the history of the pie, the necessary ingredients, the step-by-step preparation and some variations to customize your recipe.
History of the Sformato
Origins of Italian Cuisine
The sformato is a traditional dish of Italian cuisine, often prepared with simple and genuine ingredients. Its origin dates back to ancient peasant traditions, where people tried to enhance the food available at home. Sformatos can be made with a variety of ingredients, from vegetables to cheeses, and are a perfect way to recycle leftovers.
Regional Culinary Tradition
In Italy, each region has its own version of flan, using typical local ingredients. In the mountain areas, for example, you can find flans enriched with local cheeses, while in the coastal areas you can use fish and seafood. The potato and spinach flan is particularly appreciated for its versatility and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
Potatoes: 800 g (preferably yellow-fleshed)
Spinach: 300 g (fresh or frozen)
Eggs: 3
Fresh cream: 200 ml
Grated cheese: 100 g (parmesan or grana)
Butter: 30 g (to grease the pan)
Salt and pepper: to taste
Nutmeg: a pinch (optional)
Ingredients for the Decoration
Sliced cheese: 100 g (for the surface)
Sesame seeds: to taste (to decorate, optional)
Preparation
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in their skins in a saucepan and cover with salted water. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
Peel and Mash: Once cooled, peel the potatoes and mash them in a large bowl using a potato masher.
2. Prepare the Spinach
Cook the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash it well and cook it in a pan with a little water for a few minutes, until it wilts. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water.
Chop: Once cooked, chop the spinach and set aside.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Mix the Potatoes and Spinach: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the chopped spinach. Add the eggs, cream, grated cheese, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Mix well until the mixture is smooth.
4. Prepare the Pan
Grease the Pan: Take a baking pan and grease it with butter. You can use a round or square pan, depending on your preference.
Pour the Mixture: Transfer the potato and spinach mixture into the pan, leveling it well with a spatul
- Bake the Flan
Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (static).
Add the Garnish: If desired, you can add slices of cheese on the surface of the flan and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Bake: Bake in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the surface is golden and the flan is well cooked. - Cool and Serve
Cool: Once cooked, let the flan cool for a few minutes before serving.
Slice and Serve: Slice and serve hot, perhaps accompanied by a fresh salad.
Recipe Variations - Potato and Broccoli Flan
You can replace the spinach with boiled and chopped broccoli for a tasty and nutritious alternative.
