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Ancient Jute Leaf Stew - Egyptian Molokhia Recipe

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Recipe Information

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Video-Specific Recipe

Molokhia with Chicken

Cultural Context

Molokhia, a beloved dish in Egypt, traces its roots back to ancient times and is made from the leaves of the jute plant. Traditionally, it was consumed by the pharaohs and has remained a staple in Egyptian cuisine. This hearty stew is often enjoyed with chicken and served over rice, symbolizing comfort and home. Today, variations exist across the Middle East and North Africa, with each region adding its unique twist to the dish.

EgyptianEGmain
45 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
5-6 cardamom pods
1 whole head of garlic
4 cloves of garlic (crushed)
1 onion (chopped)
1 medium chicken (skin removed)
2-3 large pieces of mastic
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
2 bay leaves
200 grams chopped tomatoes
room-temperature water
1 tablespoon butter

molokhia leaves

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: kale

Spinach provides a similar texture and flavor, while kale is more accessible.

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Tofu is a plant-based alternative, while thighs are more economical than breasts.

1

Prepare 5-6 cardamom pods by cutting the tip off each one.

2

Peel a whole head of garlic and crush 4 cloves.

3

Chop 1 onion into large pieces.

4

Break down 1 medium chicken into 2 legs and 2 breasts, removing skin.

5

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a pot on medium-high heat.

6

Add 2-3 large pieces of mastic to the melted butter.

7

Add 1 teaspoon black peppercorns and 2 bay leaves to the pot.

8

Toast the spices in the butter for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

9

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown for a few minutes.

10

Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic to the pot.

11

Pour in 200 grams of chopped tomatoes.

12

Add enough room-temperature water to submerge the chicken and stir.

13

Bring to a boil, skim off the floating scum, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

sautéingboilingshredding

Equipment Needed

pot

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

dairy-free

Also Known As

MolokhiaJute Leaf Stew

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