Spinach (Spinaciaoleracea) is an edible flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae. The word “spinach” is derived from the Persian word “ispanai” which means “green hand”, which later became spanachia in Latin, and ultimately spinach in English.
Spinach is thought to have originated in ancient Persia (Iran). Spinach made its way to China in the 7th century when the king of Nepal sent it as a gift. It was only brought to Europe in the 11th century, when the Moors introduced it into Spain. In fact, spinach was known as “the Spanish vegetable” in England. Today, the United States and the Netherlands are among the largest commercial producers of spinach.
Popeye popularized spinach. Fresh spinach retains the delicacy of texture and green color. Raw spinach has a mild, slightly sweet taste that can be refreshing in salad. Spinach is used raw in salads and cooked as a potherb.....
