Molokhia
Egyptian Jute Leaf Soup
A beloved Egyptian comfort food, this slippery green soup is made from finely minced molokhia (jute leaves), simmered in a rich chicken or rabbit broth, and infused with a fragrant garlic and coriander 'ta'leya'. It's traditionally served over fluffy Egyptian rice with tender pieces of the poached meat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Whole chicken or rabbit(Chicken is more common; rabbit offers a richer flavor. Can also use chicken parts like thighs and drumsticks.)
- 2 L Water(For poaching the meat and making the broth.)
- 2 pieces Bay leaves(Optional, for flavoring the broth.)
- 5-6 whole Black peppercorns(Optional, for flavoring the broth.)
- 400 g Dried or frozen molokhia leaves(Frozen is often preferred for convenience and texture. If using dried, ensure they are finely ground or minced.)
- 10-12 cloves Garlic(Adjust to your preference; more garlic equals more flavor.)
- 2 tbsp Ground coriander(Freshly ground is best for aroma.)
- 3 tbsp Ghee or unsalted butter(Ghee provides a traditional, nutty flavor.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 cups Egyptian rice(Or any medium-grain white rice.)
- 2 cups Water or broth(For cooking the rice.)
- 1 tbsp Butter or oil(For cooking the rice.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Broth: Place the whole chicken or rabbit in a large pot. Add 2 liters of water, bay leaves, and peppercorns (if using). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and tender. Remove the meat from the broth and set aside to cool. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding the solids. You should have about 1.5 liters of rich broth. Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste. Shred or dice the cooked meat into bite-sized pieces.
⏱️ 1 hour - 2
Cook the Molokhia: Bring the strained broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. If using frozen molokhia, break it up slightly. Add the molokhia leaves to the simmering broth. Stir well to combine, ensuring there are no clumps. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Avoid a rolling boil, as this can cause the molokhia to separate and lose its vibrant green color. The soup should thicken slightly and develop its characteristic slippery texture.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 3
Prepare the Ta'leya (Garlic and Coriander Topping): While the molokhia simmers, prepare the ta'leya. Finely mince the garlic cloves. In a separate small skillet, melt the ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns lightly golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the ground coriander to the skillet and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately pour this sizzling garlic-coriander mixture (ta'leya) into the simmering molokhia soup. Stir well to incorporate.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Cook the Rice: While the ta'leya is being prepared or just after, cook the Egyptian rice. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, heat 1 tbsp of butter or oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted. Add 2 cups of water or broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes off the heat.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 5
Serve: Ladle the hot molokhia soup into bowls. Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken or rabbit meat to the soup, or serve it on the side. Serve immediately with the fluffy Egyptian rice. Traditionally, it's also enjoyed with fresh Egyptian bread (aish baladi) for dipping.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The 'ta'leya' (garlic and coriander sizzle) is essential for authentic flavor and aroma. Don't skip it!
- ✓Avoid overcooking the molokhia once it's in the broth; this can dull its vibrant green color and affect its texture.
- ✓For a smoother soup, you can blend the molokhia briefly with an immersion blender after adding it to the broth, but be careful not to over-blend.
- ✓Adjust the amount of garlic and coriander in the ta'leya to your personal preference.
- ✓Molokhia can be frozen in individual portions for later use.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Rabbit Molokhia: Use rabbit meat and its broth for a richer, more traditional flavor.
- Alexandrian Molokhia: This variation often includes chopped tomatoes or tomato paste added to the broth, and sometimes uses a base of fried onions.
- Spicy Molokhia: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ta'leya for a touch of heat.