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Persian Yogurt Spinach Dip served with chopped celery, as a snack.
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Persian Yogurt and Spinach Dip Recipe

Persian Yogurt and Spinach Dip (Borani Esfenaj) is a delicious, creamy dip made with yogurt, sauteed spinach, and traditional Persian spices.  Best served chilled; enjoy it with your favorite bread or some vegetables!  Yummy!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Persian
Servings: 6
Calories: 119kcal
Author: Neriz

Ingredients

  • 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 240 grams fresh spinach (about 8 ounces)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried mint
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
  • 360 grams yogurt (1 & 1/3 cups)
  • 1/4 to 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
  • salt and pepper, to season

Instructions

  • Boil salted water in a medium pot.
  • Add the spinach and stir until it gets wilted (typically three to five minutes).
  • Drain the wilted spinach and squeeze to remove any excess water --- then chop roughly and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil on a medium pan over medium-high heat.
  • Once oil is ready, add garlic and onion and saute until they soften and turn slightly brown.
  • Add the cinnamon powder and dried mint and cook for a couple of minutes.  
  • Cook for about two minutes.  
    (Note:  Keep mixing to avoid burning; lower heat if necessary).
  • Add the chopped spinach and a bit of salt and cook for a couple of minutes, then take off the heat to cool.
  • Combine the yogurt, salt, and pepper in a bowl --- use a whisk to mix.
  • Add the spinach from the pan and mix to combine evenly.
  • Taste and add more salt and pepper, if needed.
  • Cover your Persian yogurt spinach dip with plastic and place in the refrigerator for at least two hours.
  • Transfer to a serving plate, and sprinkle with walnuts (or more dried mint) --- enjoy!

Notes

  • Cook’s Tip:  You can keep it in the refrigerator for two to twenty-four hours before serving.
  • Refer to the post for more tips and suggestions.

Nutrition

Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 23mg | Potassium: 138mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 9IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 0.3mg