Salatet Malfouf (Lebanese Shredded Cabbage Salad)

Salatet Malfouf is a humble Lebanese cabbage salad, sharpened with lemon, garlic, and a generous handful of fresh mint. It’s the kind of everyday side dish found on most Lebanese family tables, rarely on restaurant menus. Crisp, bright, and ready in under half an hour.

Ingredients

• 1/2 medium head green cabbage, very thinly shredded
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon ground sumac, plus more for garnish
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Salt the cabbage
   Place shredded cabbage in a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let it sit for 10 minutes to soften slightly, then pat dry.
2. Make the dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and sumac.
3. Toss the salad
   In a large bowl, combine cabbage, mint, and parsley. Pour over the dressing and toss well to coat.
4. Rest briefly
   Let the salad sit for 5 minutes so the cabbage absorbs the dressing.
5. Garnish and serve
   Sprinkle with extra sumac and pomegranate seeds, if using, and serve alongside grilled meats or as part of a mezze spread.

It pairs especially well with grilled kafta or a plate of kibbeh.