Molokhia (Egyptian Jute Mallow Soup)

Molokhia is one of Egypt’s most iconic comfort foods, a deep-green, garlicky soup made from finely chopped jute mallow leaves. It’s traditionally ladled over rice with a side of chicken or rabbit.

Ingredients

• 1 lb frozen chopped molokhia (jute mallow), thawed, or fresh if available
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 3 tablespoons butter or ghee
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Simmer the molokhia
   Bring the chicken broth to a boil, add the molokhia, and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Make the garlic tarka
   In a small pan, melt the butter and cook the garlic and coriander over low heat until fragrant and just golden, about 2 minutes — don’t let the garlic burn.
3. Combine
   Stir the garlic mixture into the soup and simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve
   Ladle over rice and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

A squeeze of lemon just before eating brightens the whole bowl.