Kyrgyz Spinach Balls

Ingredients

While the original Indian Palakayalu is typically made with a combination of lentil flour and rice flour, the Kyrgyz version replaces lentil flour with all-purpose flour to suit the local cuisine. Additionally, the Kyrgyz version incorporates traditional Kyrgyz herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile and adapt it to the local taste preferences. We alse have the original recipe for Palakayalu, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh spinach leaves, washed and finely chopped 500g (1.1 lb) fresh spinach leaves, washed and finely chopped
• 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, all-purpose flour, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Take small portions of the spinach mixture and shape them into small balls or patties.
4. 4.
   Carefully drop the spinach balls into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. 5.
   Serve the Kyrgyz Spinach Balls hot with a side of yogurt dip or spicy tomato chutney.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to thoroughly wash the spinach leaves to remove any dirt or grit. Pat them dry before chopping.
• All-purpose flour — If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the spinach mixture.
• To make the spinach balls more nutritious, you can add finely chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the mixture.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the spinach balls in the oven instead of deep frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Kyrgyz Spinach Balls as an appetizer or snack. They can also be enjoyed as a side dish with a main course.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Kyrgyz Spinach Balls on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Serve them alongside a bowl of yogurt dip or spicy tomato chutney for dipping.