Fried spinach with yoghurt (borani esfanaaj)

Discover the delightful flavors of Borani Esfanaaj, a Persian-inspired dish featuring fried spinach with creamy Greek yogurt. Sautéed onions and garlic enhance the rich, earthy taste of fresh spinach, making it a perfect side or appetizer. Easy to prepare with just a few ingredients, this nutritious recipe offers a delicious and unique twist on traditional spinach dishes.

29 Mar 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
2 onions
2 garlic cloves
4 cups spinach
1 cup greek yogurt
Fried spinach with yoghurt (borani esfanaaj)

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:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onions.
- Mince the garlic.
- Wash and chop the spinach.
2. Cook the Onions:
- 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.
3. Add the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the pan with the onions and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Cook the Spinach:
- 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.
5. Cool the Spinach Mixture:
- Once the spinach is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.
6. Combine with Yogurt:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with the Greek yogurt.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
7. Season to Taste:
- Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as desired.
8. Serve:
- 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.

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.

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.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 50kcal
Protein 3.52g
Carbohydrates 5g
Fiber 1.02g
Sugar 3.60g
Fat 4.99g

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