Molokhia (Egyptian Jute Mallow Soup) - African Recipe

Molokhia is a beloved traditional soup in Egypt, named after the jute mallow leaves that form its core ingredient. This dish has roots in ancient Egypt and has been passed down through generations, becoming a staple in Egyptian households. Traditionally, it's served over rice or with a side of warm bread, allowing you to soak up every last bit of the flavorful broth. The ritual of preparing and enjoying Molokhia brings families together, making it a popular choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. While the soup is typically made with chicken or rabbit, it can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish by using a vegetable broth base.

Ingredients

  • 400 grams (approximately 1 pound) Molokhia leaves (Jute Mallow) These leaves can be found in Middle Eastern grocery stores, either fresh or frozen. They have a unique, slightly bitter taste and a slimy texture when cooked, similar to okra.
  • 1 whole, cut into pieces Chicken (or Rabbit) Traditionally, free-range chicken or rabbit is used. The meat is boiled to make the broth and then added back to the soup.
  • 6-8 cloves Garlic Garlic is an essential flavor in Molokhia. It's crushed and cooked with coriander for a deep, aromatic base.
  • 1 tablespoon Coriander Ground coriander is used to balance the flavor of the garlic and jute leaves.
Molokhia (Egyptian Jute Mallow Soup)
Molokhia (Egyptian Jute Mallow Soup)

Molokhia (Egyptian Jute Mallow Soup)

Updated on 03/22/2025

Molokhia is a beloved traditional soup in Egypt, named after the jute mallow leaves that form its core ingredient. This dish has roots in ancient Egypt and has been passed down through generations, becoming a staple in Egyptian households. Traditionally, it's served over rice or with a side of warm bread, allowing you to soak up every last bit of the flavorful broth. The ritual of preparing and enjoying Molokhia brings families together, making it a popular choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. While the soup is typically made with chicken or rabbit, it can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish by using a vegetable broth base.

Ingredients

  • 400 grams (approximately 1 pound) Molokhia leaves (Jute Mallow) (These leaves can be found in Middle Eastern grocery stores, either fresh or frozen. They have a unique, slightly bitter taste and a slimy texture when cooked, similar to okra.)
  • 1 whole, cut into pieces Chicken (or Rabbit) (Traditionally, free-range chicken or rabbit is used. The meat is boiled to make the broth and then added back to the soup.)
  • 6-8 cloves Garlic (Garlic is an essential flavor in Molokhia. It's crushed and cooked with coriander for a deep, aromatic base.)
  • 1 tablespoon Coriander (Ground coriander is used to balance the flavor of the garlic and jute leaves.)

Instructions

No instructions available.

Nutrition Info:

  • fatApproximately 15 grams per serving
  • fiberApproximately 5 grams per serving
  • sodiumApproximately 600 mg per serving
  • proteinApproximately 25 grams per serving
  • caloriesApproximately 350 calories per serving
  • carbohydratesApproximately 20 grams per serving

Recipes You Might Like