to prepare the Italian tvp balls:
Place the cup of tvp in a medium large bowl.
Add the seasonings and chopped onion.
Add the boiling water and put a plate or lid on top and allow the tvp to swell. (5 minutes)
As the tvp becomes soft add the bread crumbs and stir well to mix. It may need a bit more hot water. Stir again, and the mixture will become a sturdy mass.
When the tvp mixture is cool enough to handle, form balls.
We got about 20 balls about the size of golf balls or walnuts.
to prepare the rice:
Bring 3 cups of lightly salted water to boil.
Add the rice and cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is soft. When done, place a lid on top and set aside.
to make the Italian tvp balls:
Fry the Italian tvp balls in 1-2 tablespoons of oil.
Heat the oil in a large frying pan.
Place the formed balls in the oil and fry lightly until golden brown.
to make the tomato sauce:
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan.
Saute the chopped onion until glassy.
Add the can of crushed tomatoes.
Add the Italian seasonings.
Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, and Tabasco as desired.
In a small saucepan, heat the spinach.
http://www.vegalicious.org/2011/12/21/italian-tvp-balls-with-spinach-on-rice