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.

  • 24 Mar 2025
  • Cook time 20 min
  • Prep time 5 min
  • 8 Servings
  • 5 Ingredients

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.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
27g
2 onions
320g
2 garlic cloves
6g
4 cups spinach
120g
1 cup greek yogurt
240g

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 Facts
Serving Size90 grams
Energy
Calories 50kcal2%
Protein
Protein 3.52g2%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 5g1%
Fiber 1.02g3%
Sugar 3.60g4%
Fat
Fat 4.99g6%
Saturated 1.22g4%
Cholesterol 3.90mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 45ug5%
Choline 10mg2%
Vitamin B1 0.04mg3%
Vitamin B2 0.12mg10%
Vitamin B3 0.19mg1%
Vitamin B6 0.11mg6%
Vitamin B9 27ug7%
Vitamin B12 0.22ug9%
Vitamin C 8mg9%
Vitamin E 0.32mg2%
Vitamin K 70ug61%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 45mg4%
Copper, Cu 0.03mg4%
Iron, Fe 0.28mg3%
Magnesium, Mg 22mg5%
Phosphorus, P 60mg5%
Potassium, K 190mg6%
Selenium, Se 2.98ug5%
Sodium, Na 27mg2%
Zinc, Zn 0.31mg3%
Water
Water 77g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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