There’s something utterly delightful about transforming simple ingredients into a vibrant, hearty meal that excites the palate. The moment I decided to experiment with spinach falafel in a yogurt sauce, I didn’t expect such a colorful explosion of flavor and texture. Imagine the warm spices mingling with the creamy yogurt, creating an aromatic curry that’ll make your kitchen feel like a bustling bazaar.
After a long week of fast food and takeout, I found this recipe to be my creative escape. With just a handful of pantry staples, I whipped up a dish that’s not only quick but also satisfying, perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. The contrast of crispy falafel resting in a warm, spiced sauce, paired with bright lemon juice and fresh spinach, truly makes this falafel curry a winner.
So roll up your sleeves and join me in creating this easy, delicious Spinach Falafel Curry. You’ll learn how to elevate everyday ingredients into something spectacular, perfect for impressing friends or enjoying on a cozy night in.
Why is Falafel Curry with Spinach a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe is quick and easy, taking only 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Flavor Fusion: The rich spices meld beautifully with creamy yogurt, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from spinach and yogurt, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Versatile: Serve it with poppadums, mango chutney, or your favorite grain like rice for a complete meal.
Crowd Pleaser: Impress your friends and family with this unique twist on a classic favorite!
Dreaming of more quick meal ideas? Check out my easy recipes for busy nights that are sure to please!
Falafel Curry with Spinach Ingredients
Creating this inviting Falafel Curry with Spinach is a delightful adventure that combines simple ingredients into a flavor-packed dish!
For the Curry Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves – add depth and aroma to your sauce.
- 4 cm piece ginger – enhances the warmth and zest of the dish.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – for sautéing the aromatic spices.
- 2 tbsp tomato purée – brings a rich, tangy flavor to the sauce.
- 1 tsp ground cumin – lends a warm, earthy essence.
- 1 tsp ground coriander – complements the spices with a citrusy undertone.
- ½ tsp ground turmeric – adds vibrant color and health benefits.
- 1 tbsp garam masala – a blend of spices that makes the sauce aromatic and flavorful.
For the Yogurt Mix
- 250 g full-fat natural yogurt – provides creaminess and balances the spices.
- Juice of 1 lemon – brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing tartness.
Main Ingredients
- 2 packs spinach falafels – the star of the dish, bringing protein and texture.
- 125 g baby leaf spinach – boosts the nutritional value and adds freshness.
To Serve (Optional)
- Poppadums – for a crunchy texture, perfect on the side.
- Mango chutney – adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory curry.
- Steamed rice – a classic complement that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Now that you’re ready to gather these easy-to-find ingredients, let’s roll up our sleeves and create something magical together!
How to Make Falafel Curry with Spinach
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Whizz the garlic and ginger together with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, tomato purée, and all the spices in a food processor. Add a splash of water to create a smooth paste, ensuring it’s aromatic and ready for cooking.
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Heat the remaining oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste, cooking and stirring for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Gradually pour in 250 ml of water, bringing it to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Stir in 200 g of the yogurt, then carefully add the spinach falafels. Cover the pan with a lid and let them warm through for 5 minutes, soaking up the spicy goodness.
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Mix in the fresh spinach and a generous squeeze of lemon juice. Re-cover the pan to let the spinach wilt down, creating a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. Season with salt to taste and drizzle with a little more yogurt for creaminess.
Optional: Serve with poppadums and mango chutney for a delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Falafel Curry with Spinach
Fridge: Store any leftover Falafel Curry with Spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain quality.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the curry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Serving Freshness: Freshly made falafels are best enjoyed immediately. If freezing, consider cooking them separately to maintain their crispiness for serving later.
Make Ahead Options
These Falafel Curry with Spinach are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the spice paste (garlic, ginger, and spices) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in an airtight container, ensuring the flavors remain vibrant. Additionally, you can cook the falafel in the yogurt sauce and let it cool before storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the curry gently on the stove, stirring in fresh spinach and a splash of water to maintain its creamy texture. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal waiting for you with minimal effort during your busy week!
Expert Tips for Falafel Curry with Spinach
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Perfect Paste: Ensure your garlic-ginger mixture is smooth. Add just enough water to blend without making it too runny; this impacts the sauce’s texture.
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Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with half the garam masala and increase to your liking.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach for optimal flavor and nutrition. Wilt it gently in the sauce to maintain some of that vibrant green color and nutrients.
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Yogurt Balance: Stir in the yogurt gently to avoid curdling. Full-fat yogurt gives the best creamy texture and balances the spices beautifully.
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Serving Suggestions: Enhance your dish with a side of poppadums for crunch, mango chutney for sweetness, and steamed rice to soak up the luscious sauce. Enjoy your falafel curry!
What to Serve with Falafel Curry with Spinach?
Nothing completes a cozy night in like a well-rounded meal that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.
- Steamed Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the rich, spiced yogurt sauce, providing a perfect base for the flavorful falafel.
- Poppadums: Their crispiness adds a fun texture contrast, making each bite an exciting experience. Serve them alongside for a delightful crunch!
- Mango Chutney: A sweet and tangy companion that balances the spices beautifully, bringing a burst of flavor to every mouthful.
- Mint Yogurt Raita: This cool, refreshing dip complements the heat of the curry, enhancing the overall flavor experience. It’s a must-try!
- Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a crisp, cool element that pairs perfectly with the warmth of the falafel curry.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy and healthy, avocado adds richness to the plate, making it even more satisfying. Ideal for texture lovers!
- Chilled Herbal Tea: A soothing beverage that complements the spices in the curry, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a light chocolate mousse to wrap up your meal on a sweet note, creating a joyful finish to your dining experience.
Falafel Curry with Spinach Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this dish to suit your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the spice paste for extra heat. It’ll give your curry a delightful warmth that lingers.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the sauce for a fresh burst of flavor. Their vibrant notes elevate the dish beautifully!
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Vegan Delight: Swap the full-fat yogurt with coconut yogurt or a non-dairy alternative. You’ll get the same creaminess without the dairy—perfect for plant-based eaters.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds before serving for added texture. The crunch complements the soft falafels perfectly!
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Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini when cooking the sauce for a hearty vegetable medley. It enhances the nutritional profile and aesthetic appeal.
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Different Beans: Substitute half of the falafels with canned chickpeas for an extra layer of flavor and texture. This twist keeps the dish exciting.
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Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the sauce for a fresh citrus aroma. It brightens the overall taste and adds a gourmet touch.
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Savory Curd: Use labneh in place of yogurt for a thicker, richer sauce experience. This Middle Eastern staple adds a delicious tang to the dish!
Falafel Curry with Spinach Recipe FAQs
What type of spinach should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh baby leaf spinach is ideal for this dish as it wilts beautifully and maintains a vibrant green color. If you can’t find baby spinach, you can use regular spinach; just ensure to chop it roughly before adding it to the curry.
How long can I store leftover Falafel Curry in the fridge?
You can store your Falafel Curry with Spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing the container; this will help preserve its flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the Falafel Curry?
Yes, you can freeze the curry for up to 2 months. To do this, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
What if my sauce turns out too thick?
Very! If your sauce becomes thicker than you’d like during cooking, simply add a little water to loosen it up while stirring. Aim for a smooth, creamy consistency. Don’t worry; this happens sometimes, and it’s easily fixable!
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
This recipe contains dairy from the yogurt, which can be a concern for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can substitute full-fat yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. If you’re allergic to nuts, double-check the ingredients of your falafels, as some may contain nut products. Always refer to the packaging to be safe!
How can I enhance the flavors in my Falafel Curry?
One simple way to enhance your curry is by adding a pinch of salt or a bit more lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Additionally, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint just before serving for an extra pop of freshness and flavor!
Delicious Falafel Curry with Spinach for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whizz the garlic and ginger together with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, tomato purée, and all the spices in a food processor. Add a splash of water to create a smooth paste, ensuring it's aromatic and ready for cooking.
- Heat the remaining oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste, cooking and stirring for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Gradually pour in 250 ml of water, bringing it to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir in 200 g of the yogurt, then carefully add the spinach falafels. Cover the pan with a lid and let them warm through for 5 minutes, soaking up the spicy goodness.
- Mix in the fresh spinach and a generous squeeze of lemon juice. Re-cover the pan to let the spinach wilt down, creating a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. Season with salt to taste and drizzle with a little more yogurt for creaminess.
- Optional: Serve with poppadums and mango chutney for a delightful crunch.