Molokhia soup is a rich and velvety Middle Eastern dish made from finely chopped jute leaves simmered in a fragrant broth infused with garlic and coriander. Popular across Egypt, Lebanon, and Palestine, this nourishing soup is served with rice or warm pita bread. Whether prepared with chicken or beef, Molokhia is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for iftar during Ramadan or any cozy family meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic & Traditional – A beloved dish in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine.
- Nutrient-Rich – Molokhia is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Versatile – Can be made with chicken, beef, or as a vegetarian dish.
- Perfect for Ramadan & Family Dinners – A comforting meal that pairs well with rice or bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Base Ingredients:
- 500g fresh or frozen molokhia (jute leaves), finely chopped
- 1 liter chicken or beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cumin
- Juice of 1 lemon (for serving)
- 1 cooked chicken breast or beef pieces (optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot, heat the chicken or beef broth over medium heat.
- If using, add the cooked chicken breast or beef pieces and let the broth simmer gently.
2. Sauté the Garlic & Spices
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and ground coriander, sautéing until fragrant and golden.
3. Cook the Molokhia
- Add the finely chopped molokhia to the broth, stirring continuously.
- Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t overcook to maintain its velvety texture.
4. Season & Serve
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, and cumin.
- Remove from heat and serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Enjoy alongside rice or warm pita bread for an authentic experience.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Molokhia – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
- Seafood Molokhia – Replace the meat with shrimp for a coastal twist.
- Spicy Version – Add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Extra Garlicky – Increase the amount of garlic for a bolder flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed.
- Freezing: Freeze Molokhia in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
FAQs
1. What is Molokhia?
Molokhia (jute leaves) is a green leafy vegetable commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine, known for its slightly slimy texture when cooked.
2. Can I use dried Molokhia instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, but dried Molokhia requires soaking before cooking and has a slightly different texture.
3. Why does Molokhia have a slimy texture?
Molokhia naturally releases mucilage when cooked, similar to okra. Stirring less frequently can help reduce the sliminess.
4. Can I make this dish without garlic?
Garlic is a key flavor in Molokhia, but you can reduce the amount or substitute with onion for a milder taste.
5. What can I serve with Molokhia?
It pairs well with rice, pita bread, pickles, and a side of roasted chicken or lamb.
6. Can I add tomatoes to Molokhia?
Yes, some variations include chopped tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.
7. How do I keep the Molokhia bright green?
Avoid overcooking, and add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
8. What’s the best broth for Molokhia?
Chicken broth is the most common, but beef or vegetable broth also work well.
9. Can I make Molokhia in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function for the garlic and spices, then pressure cook the broth and molokhia for 5 minutes.
10. How do I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Conclusion
Molokhia soup is a classic Middle Eastern dish, offering a unique combination of earthy, garlicky flavors and a silky texture. Whether served with rice or bread, this comforting and nutritious meal is perfect for iftar or a cozy family dinner. Try it with a squeeze of lemon for an authentic taste that brings warmth to any table!
