Iranian Yogurt and Spinach Dip Borani Esfanaaj
Creamy, vibrant, and packed with mouthwatering flavors, Iranian Yogurt and Spinach Dip, or Borani Esfanaaj, is a true celebration of Persian cuisine. This easy-to-make appetizer combines tender, blanched spinach with rich and tangy Greek yogurt, aromatically spiced with turmeric and sautéed garlic for a savory depth of flavor. A hint of optional dried mint adds a refreshing herbal note, while chopped walnuts bring a delightful crunch to every bite. Ready in under 30 minutes, this nutritious dip is perfect for serving chilled or at room temperature with warm flatbreads, crackers, or fresh veggies. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a healthy, flavorful snack, Borani Esfanaaj is a versatile and satisfying crowd-pleaser.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams Fresh spinach leaves
- 400 grams Greek yogurt (or strained yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 pieces Garlic cloves
- 0.5 teaspoons Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Crushed dried mint (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Chopped walnuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Wash the spinach thoroughly and trim off any tough stems.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the spinach by cooking it for 2-3 minutes. Then immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
Drain the spinach and squeeze out excess water. Roughly chop the spinach and set aside.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Add the turmeric powder to the skillet and stir for 10 seconds to release its aroma.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach has fully absorbed the flavors. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with Greek yogurt. Stir well until fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
If desired, sprinkle crushed dried mint on top for extra flavor. Garnish with chopped walnuts for added texture.
Serve chilled or at room temperature with warm flatbread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
750 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 40.7 g | 52% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 13 mg | 4% | |
| Sodium | 2896 mg | 126% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40.0 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.4 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.7 g | ||
| Protein | 44.7 g | 89% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 823 mg | 63% | |
| Iron | 15.0 mg | 83% | |
| Potassium | 3302 mg | 70% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
