Cuisine ; Molokhia - how to prepare this Egyptian item

 

Molokhia, also known as Jute Mallow or Jew's Mallow, is a leafy green vegetable commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine. It is particularly popular in Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. Here's a detailed guide on how to prepare Molokhia:

### Ingredients

- Fresh Molokhia leaves (about 500 grams) or 2 cups dried or frozen Molokhia

- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

- 1 tablespoon ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

- Cooked rice (for serving)

- Cooked chicken or meat (optional, for serving)

### Ingredients 

#### Preparation of Fresh Molokhia Leaves:

1. **Cleaning the Leaves:**

   - Rinse the fresh Molokhia leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt.

   - Remove the leaves from the stems and discard the stems. Pat the leaves dry with a clean towel or paper towels.

2. **Chopping the Leaves:**

   - Finely chop the leaves using a sharp knife or a food processor. The consistency should be similar to finely chopped spinach.

#### Preparation of Dried or Frozen Molokhia:

- If using dried Molokhia, soak the leaves in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate them, then drain well.

- If using frozen Molokhia, thaw it completely before cooking.

#### Cooking the Molokhia:

1. **Sautéing the Aromatics:**

   - In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.

   - Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

   - Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

2. **Cooking the Molokhia:**

   - Add the finely chopped Molokhia leaves to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.

   - Pour in the chicken broth or vegetable broth and stir well.

   - Add the ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the Molokhia leaves are tender and the mixture has thickened slightly.

   - If desired, add the juice of one lemon to the pot for a tangy flavor.

3. **Serving:**

   - Molokhia is traditionally served over a bed of cooked rice.

   - You can also add cooked chicken or meat to the Molokhia before serving.

   - Garnish with additional lemon wedges or a sprinkle of ground coriander if desired.

### Tips:

- Molokhia tends to become slimy when cooked, similar to okra. This is normal and part of its characteristic texture.

- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

- Molokhia can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Enjoy your Molokhia, a nutritious and flavorful dish that is a staple in many Middle Eastern and North African households!