Borani Esfenaj - Persian Spinach and Yogurt Dip

User Reviews

5

20 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    3 mins

  • Cook Time

    2 mins

  • Total Time

    5 mins

  • Servings

    4 servings

  • Calories

    86 kcal

  • Course

    Appetizer

  • Cuisine

    Persian

Borani Esfenaj - Persian Spinach and Yogurt Dip

Borani Esfenaj is a Persian-style dip combining sautéed baby spinach and minced garlic with thick plain Greek yogurt. The spinach is cooked until wilted and excess water evaporates before mixing with yogurt, then seasoned with salt and pepper. The result is a creamy, tangy, and mildly garlicky dip that works well with breads or chips.

Description

This Borani Esfenaj recipe involves cooking baby spinach in a pan without oil until it wilts, then stirring in minced garlic and continuing to cook until moisture reduces. The spinach and garlic mix is combined with thick Greek yogurt to create a creamy texture and balanced flavor. Salt and black pepper adjust seasoning according to taste.

The dip is traditionally served with various breads such as toasted Iranian bread, naan, toasted bread, or pita chips, making it suitable as an appetizer or snack. Its cool, creamy quality contrasts with the warmed spinach and garlic components.

Using firm, thick yogurt is essential for the right consistency, and fresh minced garlic provides pronounced flavor compared to powders. Spinach stems may be left in when using baby spinach due to their tenderness and flavor. Generous amounts of spinach wilt substantially, so start with enough to yield a substantial dip portion.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 6 cup baby spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced
  • 2 1/2 cups yogurt plain, Greek
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat a pan on medium heat. (No oil needed)
  2. Place baby spinach in the pan, lower the heat and wait so that the spinach starts wilting. 
  3. Once the spinach is wilted, add in mined garlic and stir. Cook for 5 minutes over medium heat or until the excess water is evaporated. 
  4. Mix the yogurt, spinach and garlic in a bowl.
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve with toasted Iranian bread, naan, toasted bread or pita chips.

Notes

  • Use about 6 cups of fresh spinach as it cooks down significantly.
  • Choose thick, firm Greek yogurt for proper dip texture; avoid runny varieties.
  • Freshly minced garlic provides better flavor than pre-minced or powder forms.
  • When using baby spinach, stems can be kept as they are tender and flavorful.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 86kcal (4%) Carbohydrates 7g (2%) Protein 14g (28%) Fat 1g (2%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Cholesterol 6mg (2%) Sodium 81mg (3%) Potassium 427mg (9%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 4g (8%) Vitamin A 4220IU (84%) Vitamin C 13mg (14%) Calcium 185mg (19%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 86 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 86kcal 4%
Carbohydrates 7g 2%
Protein 14g 28%
Fat 1g 2%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Cholesterol 6mg 2%
Sodium 81mg 3%
Potassium 427mg 9%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 4g 8%
Vitamin A 4220IU 84%
Vitamin C 13mg 14%
Calcium 185mg 19%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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