4 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1/2 pound lean ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried cardamom
1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard, or to taste
8 cups water
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped fresh parsnips
1 cup bacon bits
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese
In a large bowl, combine spinach, ground beef, ground pork, garlic, basil, oregano, cardamom, dill, salt, pepper and mustard. Place water in a small measure and add spinach. Add plenty of water as needed; cover. Simmer until all water has absorbed and all liquid is removed from the sauce.
Meanwhile, heat water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Pour over spinach and cook until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water. Mix in cooked spinach and cooking sauce and stir until all liquid is absorbed. Stir in Cheddar cheese. Simmer for an additional 1 minute.