To make spinach powder, follow these steps:

1.Select fresh spinach: Start by choosing fresh spinach leaves. Look for leaves that are vibrant green and free from any signs of wilting or discoloration.

2.Wash the spinach: Thoroughly wash the spinach leaves under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.

3.Blanch the spinach: Blanching helps preserve the color and nutrients of the spinach. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the spinach leaves. Let them blanch for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until they wilt.

4.Shock the spinach: Quickly transfer the blanched spinach leaves to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps retain the bright green color.

5.Drain and dry the spinach: Remove the spinach leaves from the ice water and drain them well. You can gently squeeze out any excess water. Spread the leaves on a clean kitchen towel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them air dry completely. This can take several hours or overnight.

6.Grind into a powder: Once the spinach leaves are completely dry, use a blender, food processor, or coffee grinder to grind them into a fine powder. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your equipment.

7.Sieve the powder (optional): If desired, pass the spinach powder through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any larger particles and ensure a smooth texture.

8.Store the powder: Transfer the spinach powder to an airtight container or a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored spinach powder can last for several months.

Spinach powder can be used as a nutritious addition to smoothies, sauces, soups, baked goods, or as a natural food coloring. Remember to adjust the quantity according to your recipe's requirements.