International kitchen

Molokhia (Egyptian Jute Mallow Soup)

Molokhia is a popular Egyptian soup made from the leaves of the jute mallow plant. It is a comforting and flavorful dish that is often enjoyed with rice or bread. Molokhia has a unique texture and a distinct earthy taste, making it a beloved staple in Egyptian cuisine.

Molokhia (Egyptian Jute Mallow Soup) prepared recipe
PrepNot statedCookFollow stepsServesFlexibleLevelHome cook
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Before you start

A quick setup makes the method easier to follow and keeps important steps from being missed.

Preparation checklist

  • Read all 8 method steps from beginning to end.
  • Measure and arrange all 10 listed ingredients.
  • Keep the recipe open and follow each step in order; the source does not state a total time.

Recipe notes & preparation tips

Molokhia is traditionally served with rice or bread. It can be enjoyed as a standalone soup or as part of a larger meal with additional side dishes. Some variations of molokhia include the addition of meat or poultry for added protein.

Adapted from the source recipe's notes.
Step by step

Method

  1. 01

    If using fresh molokhia leaves, remove any tough stems and wash the leaves thoroughly. If using frozen molokhia, thaw it according to the package instructions.

  2. 02

    In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.

  3. 03

    Add the fresh or thawed molokhia leaves to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.

  4. 04

    Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring that the molokhia leaves are fully submerged.

  5. 05

    Season the soup with ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir to incorporate the spices.

  6. 06

    Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

  7. 07

    Remove the soup from the heat. Optionally, squeeze the juice of a lemon into the soup and stir well to enhance the flavors.

  8. 08

    Serve the molokhia hot, accompanied by cooked rice or bread.

Ready to serve

Serve the dish as directed and enjoy it while it is at its best.

Bon appétit — enjoy your meal!
Transparent sourcing

Source & licence

This recipe was adapted and reformatted from Wikibooks Cookbook . Text: CC BY-SA 4.0. Image: CC BY-SA 4.0, credited to Aseel zm; view original image record .