Fried spinach with yoghurt (borani esfanaaj)
Borani Esfanaaj, or Fried Spinach with Yogurt, features sautéed spinach and onions blended with creamy Greek yogurt. This Persian dish balances rich, savory flavours, making it a comforting side for any meal.
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil2 onions
2 garlic cloves
4 cups spinach
1 cup greek yogurt
Borani Esfanaaj, also known as Fried Spinach with Yogurt, is a delightful and nutritious Persian dish. This tasty side combines the rich flavors of sautéed spinach and onions with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, resulting in a comforting and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Instructions:
- Finely chop the onions.
- Mince the garlic.
- Wash and chop the spinach.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and start to turn golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan with the onions and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the pan.
- Stir well and cook until the spinach is wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated, about 5-6 minutes.
- Once the spinach is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with the Greek yogurt.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Transfer the borani esfanaaj to a serving dish.
- Optionally, drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added flavor.
- Serve as a side dish or dip with warm bread, pita, or fresh vegetables.
Fried Spinach with Yogurt, or Borani Esfanaaj, is a versatile and healthy dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. Its combination of sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, and creamy Greek yogurt creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you are new to Persian cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Fried spinach with yoghurt (borani esfanaaj) FAQ:
It takes about 8-10 minutes to sauté the onions until they become translucent and start turning golden brown over medium heat.
Yes, you can substitute regular plain yogurt for Greek yogurt, but the consistency and creaminess will differ. If using non-dairy yogurt, ensure it is unsweetened and plain to maintain the dish's flavor.
Store leftover Borani Esfanaaj in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold or reheated gently on the stove.
A large skillet or frying pan, approximately 10-12 inches in diameter, is recommended for sautéing the onions and spinach to allow for even cooking.
The spinach is properly cooked when it is wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated, which should take about 5-6 minutes after adding it to the pan.
Tips:
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the spinach before cooking to remove any dirt and excess moisture.
- For a richer flavor, consider using full-fat Greek yogurt.
- To enhance the dish, you can add a pinch of ground cumin or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Saute the onions slowly until they become caramelized for a deeper flavor.
Nutrition per serving
8 ServingsCalories 50kcal
Protein 3.52g
Carbohydrates 5g
Fiber 1.02g
Sugar 3.60g
Fat 4.99g
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