Molokhia soup, also known as Jew’s mallow soup, is a popular dish in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine. It is made from the leaves of the molokhia plant, which is similar to spinach or kale. The soup is often served with rice or bread and can be made with chicken, beef, or lamb.

The origins of this soup can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was considered a staple food. Today, it is enjoyed in many countries throughout the region, with each country adding its unique twist to the recipe. The soup is known for its rich, earthy flavor and is often seasoned with garlic, coriander, and cumin. Whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or simply looking to try something new, molokhia is a soup that is sure to satisfy.

One weekend, my son and I visited an Egyptian restaurant in London for lunch. While we were enjoying our meal, an old Egyptian woman brought a dish called molokhia soup to our table. We were curious about the dish and decided to try it. The soup was delicious, and we both enjoyed it very much.

However, during our meal, a customer at a nearby table refused to pay the bill, claiming dissatisfaction with the food or service. This caused a bit of commotion in the restaurant, but eventually, things settled down.

After the meal, I requested the recipe from the restaurant chef. To my surprise, the chef agreed to give me the recipe. Here are the ingredients the recipe contained: ghee, crushed garlic, and dry coriander, chicken bouillon cube, chicken broth, baking soda, tomato sauce (optional), frozen molokhia, salt.

I was thrilled to have the recipe and couldn’t wait to try making the soup at home.

Serving Suggestions

Molokhia is a delicious and nutritious soup that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a side of rice or bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Add a dollop of yogurt or sour cream to balance out the spiciness of the soup.
• Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for an added burst of flavor.
• Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to round out your meal.

This soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Experiment with different serving suggestions to find your favorite combination.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp of ghee
• 2-3 large garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 1/2 tbsp of dry coriander
• 1 cube of chicken bouillon
• 2-3 cups of chicken broth, divided
• 1/4 tsp of baking soda
• 2 tbsp to 1/4 cup of tomato sauce (optional)
• 1 (400g) package of frozen Molokhia
• Salt to taste

How to Make Molokhia Soup?

1. To make this soup, start by melting ghee in a deep pot over medium-high heat. Then, sauté garlic until it becomes lightly golden and fragrant. Add coriander and continue stirring for another 30 seconds.
2. Pour in one and a half cups of broth and sprinkle the bouillon cube. Stir everything together until the bouillon is dissolved. If you are using baking soda, stir it in at this point.
3. Add the molokhia and turn down the heat to medium-low. Using a whisk, stir until the molokhia has melted completely in the broth. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well.
4. Check the consistency of the molokhia. It is going to be thick, but if you want it thinner, add more broth until you reach the consistency you prefer. Taste the soup and adjust the sweetness, tartness, and salt levels as needed.
5. Continue cooking the molokhia until the leaves are cooked and no longer taste raw. Molokhia is usually done when it just starts boiling all over on low heat.
6. Do not cover the molokhia immediately. Let it cool down completely before covering or serving it directly with rice, chicken, and pita bread.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Molokhia Soup

To make the best molokhia soup, follow these tips and tricks:

• Prefer fresh molokhia leaves: Fresh leaves will give the soup a better flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh leaves, use frozen or canned molokhia leaves.
• Clean the molokhia leaves properly: Wash the leaves thoroughly and remove any stems or tough parts. Chop the leaves into small pieces.
• Use homemade chicken broth: Homemade broth will add more flavor to the soup than store-bought broth. You can also use beef or vegetable broth if you prefer.
• Add garlic and coriander: These two ingredients will enhance the flavor of the soup. You can also add other herbs and spices such as cumin, paprika, or turmeric.
• Cook the molokhia leaves properly: Overcooking the leaves will make them slimy and unappetizing. Cook the leaves for only a few minutes until they are tender.
• Serve the soup hot with bread: Molokhia is traditionally served with bread. You can also add some lemon juice or hot sauce for extra flavor.

By following these tips and tricks, you can make a delicious and satisfying molokhia that your family and friends will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to making this soup, some common mistakes can easily be avoided. By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your soup turns out delicious every time.

1. First, avoid overcooking the molokhia leaves. Overcooking can cause the leaves to become slimy and lose their flavor. Instead, cook the molokhia for just a few minutes until it is tender and bright green.
2. Another common mistake is using too much water. This can dilute the flavor of the soup and make it less satisfying. It’s important to use just enough water to cover the ingredients and create a broth that is rich and flavorful.
3. Finally, be careful not to over-season the soup. Molokhia has a delicate flavor that can be easily overwhelmed by too much salt or spices. Start with a small amount of seasoning and adjust as needed.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a delicious and satisfying bowl of soup every time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, molokhia soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is enjoyed by many people around the world. Its unique flavor and texture make it a popular choice for those looking for a hearty and filling meal.

One of the great things about this soup is that it is incredibly versatile. It can be made with a variety of different ingredients, including chicken, beef, lamb, or even vegetarian options like tofu or mushrooms. This means that there is a molokhia recipe out there for everyone, no matter what their dietary preferences may be.

Another benefit of molokhia soup is that it is packed with nutrients. Molokhia leaves are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamin C. This makes this soup a great choice for those looking to boost their immune system and improve their overall health.

Did you know? It’s best to have molokhia soup with kuboos bread.
Get the recipe now (by clicking the image below):