Best Afghan Spinach Appetizer Dip Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

SABZI (SPINACH AND LAMB STEW)



Sabzi (Spinach and Lamb Stew) image

Sabzi is one of the traditional dishes served during Afghan Nowruz, the celebration of the new year and vernal equinox, and Durkhanai Ayubi included this recipe from her mother, Farida Ayubi, in their cookbook "Parwana: Recipes and Stories From an Afghan Kitchen." The rich green hue of this dish symbolizes the arrival of spring and new life. In the book, Ms. Ayubi uses a pressure cooker for the lamb - you can as well - but the stovetop version below doesn't take very long. Either way, the lamb becomes tender in an intensely flavorful broth of onion, garlic and chile. It then simmers in cooked spinach, fragrant with fried cilantro and garlic chives. This soul-affirming sabzi, along with its traditional accompaniment of challaw, a spiced Afghan rice dish, is a welcome way to celebrate the reawakening of nature.

Provided by Naz Deravian

Categories     dinner, soups and stews, main course

Time 2h30m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 cup sunflower or grapeseed oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 fresh, long red chile (such as Holland), thinly sliced
2 1/4 pounds boneless lamb stew meat (preferably shoulder or leg), cut into 2-inch chunks
Salt
1 large bunch cilantro, leaves and tender stems finely chopped (1 1/2 cups)
1 bunch garlic chives or scallions, green parts only, finely chopped (1/2 cup)
2 1/4 pounds spinach (about 4 bunches), stems removed, finely chopped (see Tip)
Challaw, for serving

Steps:

  • In a large Dutch oven or similar pot, heat 1/2 cup oil over medium-high. Add the onion, garlic and chile, and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Push the vegetables to one side and add the lamb to the other. Cook until lightly browned on all sides, 3 to 8 minutes total. Add 2 tablespoons kosher salt (or 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt or fine salt) and 4 cups water, then stir and bring to a gentle boil, skimming any scum that rises to the surface. Cover, reduce heat to low and cook until the lamb is tender, 1 hour and 5 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Meanwhile, in a kettle or a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup water to a boil, and keep at a simmer.
  • In a very large skillet with a lid, heat the remaining 1/2 cup oil over medium. Add the cilantro and garlic chives, and fry, stirring occasionally, to bring out all the flavors, about 5 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a small bowl.
  • Place the same skillet over medium-high heat (no need to wash), add the chopped spinach and the just-boiled water, and cover partially. Cook, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid is gone, about 20 minutes.
  • Add the lamb, 1 cup of its cooking liquid (any remaining broth can be refrigerated or frozen for another use) and the cilantro mixture to the spinach. Stir to combine well, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, until all the flavors mingle, about 15 minutes. Taste, season with salt if desired and serve with challaw.

AFGHAN SPINACH



Afghan Spinach image

I have always loved to eat spinach at Afghanistan restaurants. After several tries at making it, here are my results, which are easy and quite good served with fresh basmati rice.

Provided by Andtototoo

Categories     Vegetable

Time 30m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

6 tablespoons oil
1 bunch green onion
1/2 bunch cilantro
20 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup water

Steps:

  • Wash the green onions and cut off the very ends (both ends). roughly chop and put into a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
  • Put the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. When the heat is hot, add the green onion and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, roughly chop 1/2 bunch cilantro (fresh green coriander) and pulse it in the food processor until finely chopped.
  • Add the cilantro and spinach to the frying pan and stir for a minute until everything is well mixed.
  • Add all the spices and stir again.
  • Add the water, cover, and cook for 10 minutes. Check to see if the spinach is very tender, if not, recover and cook 5 more minutes.
  • Remove cover and continue to cook over medium heat until all of the liquid has evaporated.
  • Good seved with fresh basmati rice. I also like to eat this with lamb.

Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »

    #60-minutes-or-less     #time-to-make     #course     #preparation     #low-protein     #healthy     #appetizers     #dietary     #low-cholesterol     #low-calorie     #low-carb     #healthy-2     #low-in-something

You'll also love

Broccoli-Stuffed Potatoes_image Broccoli Stuffed Potatoes

Soft Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies_image Soft Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

Ukrainian Dried Fruit Compote Uzvar_image Ukrainian Dried Fruit Compote Uzvar

Polynesian Roast Beef_image Polynesian Roast Beef

Nana's No Name Cake_image Nana's No Name Cake

4-Ingredient Blueberry Meringue Pie_image 4 Ingredient Blueberry Meringue Pie

Dilly Cucumber Salad_image Dilly Cucumber Salad

Mocha Cake I_image Mocha Cake I

Souperburger Italiano_image Souperburger Italiano

Avocado Paste Sandwich_image Avocado Paste Sandwich

Bajadera (Bah-Ya-Deh-Ra)_image Bajadera (Bah Ya Deh Ra)

Korean BBQ Beef Tacos_image Korean BBQ Beef Tacos

Bubba's Country-Fried Venison Steak_image Bubba's Country Fried Venison Steak

Pesto and Prosciutto Asparagus_image Pesto and Prosciutto Asparagus

Roasted Red Pepper Stew_image Roasted Red Pepper Stew

Gumbo_image Gumbo

Peach Glaze_image Peach Glaze

Best-Ever Chocolate Swirl Banana Bread_image Best Ever Chocolate Swirl Banana Bread

Homemade Jelly Donuts_image Homemade Jelly Donuts

Bavarian Salad (Broccoli Salad Mold)_image Bavarian Salad (Broccoli Salad Mold)

Afghan Spinach Appetizer Dip Recipes:

Afghan cuisine dates back to centuries and is known for its delicious and diverse flavors. One of the most popular Afghan appetizers is the spinach dip that features a blend of cooked spinach, spices, and creamy yogurt dip. This appetizer is perfect for parties, BBQs, or as a side dish with your favorite meal.

Ingredients

There are various spinach dip recipes that you can explore depending on your taste preferences. Here are some of the ingredients common in Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes:

  • Fresh spinach
  • Yogurt
  • Salt and pepper
  • Garlic
  • Lemon juice
  • Green chili
  • Greek yogurt
  • Mint leaves

Steps to prepare Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes

The Afghan spinach dip recipes are easy to make in a short time. Here are steps to follow:

  1. Wash fresh spinach leaves in cold water, chop them and boil in salted water for about 3 minutes.
  2. Drain the excess water and rinse the spinach in cold water. Then squeeze as much water as possible to dry it off.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix garlic, salt, lemon juice, and green chili in yogurt.
  4. Chop the dried spinach leaves and add it to the yogurt and mix well.
  5. Refrigerate the dip mixture for about 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Garnish with some fresh mint leaves and serve it with pita chips, crackers or fresh veggies.

Variations of Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes

1. Creamy spinach dip with Greek yogurt

This variation is perfect for those who love a tangy and smooth texture in their dips. Creamy spinach dip with Greek yogurt features a mix of garlic, spinach, salt, lemon juice, and Greek yogurt. For an extra kick, you can add green chili or a dash of cumin powder.

2. Spinach and artichoke dip with yogurt

This variation is ideal for those who want to add some thickness and flavor to their spinach dip. The spinach and artichoke dip feature a blend of fresh spinach, marinated artichoke hearts, garlic, salt, lemon juice, and plain yogurt. You can also add a sprinkle of red chili flakes and grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

3. Spinach dip with labneh

This variation is perfect for those who prefer a subtle and creamy flavor in their spinach dip. The spinach dip with labneh features a mix of cooked spinach, garlic, salt, lemon juice, and labneh. You can also add some chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh and earthy flavor.

In conclusion

Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes are a great addition to any dinner or party menu. With its diverse variations and bold flavors, the spinach dip is sure to please everyone's taste buds. So, go ahead, experiment with different recipes and enjoy the delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes.

Valuable Tips When Making Afghan Spinach Appetizer Dip Recipes

Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional dips. They are made using fresh spinach, yogurt, and a blend of spices that provide a unique flavor. However, making these dips can be challenging, especially if you are new to Afghan cuisine. Here are some valuable tips that can help you create the perfect Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipe:
1. Use fresh ingredients
The key ingredient in Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes is fresh spinach. Make sure to buy fresh spinach from a reputable source. Do not use frozen or canned spinach, as they have a different flavor and texture. Also, use fresh herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the dip.
2. Blend the spinach well
The spinach should be finely chopped or blended to a smooth consistency. This will help the dip to be smooth and creamy. Do not chop the spinach too finely as it can become watery and spoil the taste of the dip.
3. Yogurt is the base
Yogurt is the base for Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes. Use plain, full-fat yogurt as it provides a creamy texture to the dip. Greek yogurt is also a great alternative as it is thicker and has a tangy flavor.
4. Adjust the spices according to your taste
Afghan cuisine uses a unique blend of spices such as coriander, cumin, paprika, and turmeric. However, the amount and type of spices used can vary according to individual preferences. Adjust the spices according to your taste to create a dip that suits your palate.
5. Let the dip chill for a few hours before serving
After you have made the dip, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least a few hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to blend together, and the dip will have a better taste.
6. Serve with fresh veggies and pita bread
Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes are best served with fresh veggies such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Pita bread is also a great option as it is soft and goes well with the creamy texture of the dip.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and spices
Garnish the top of the dip with fresh herbs such as cilantro, parsley, or mint. This will add a pop of color and flavor to the dip, and make it look more appetizing.
8. Experiment with different variations
Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes can be made in many variations. You can add different ingredients such as roasted red peppers or roasted garlic to create a unique flavor. Experiment with different variations to find the perfect Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipe that suits your taste.
9. Don't overdo the salt
When making Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes, remember not to overdo the salt. Yogurt has a natural tartness that can be balanced with a hint of salt. Too much salt can spoil the taste of the dip.
10. Enjoy it as a healthy snack or appetizer
Afghan spinach appetizer dip recipes are a healthy and delicious snack or appetizer. They are low in calories, high in protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals. Enjoy it as a healthy snack or appetizer while entertaining guests or as a midday snack.

Related Topics