Mulukhiyah

Story behind the dish

In the warm sunlight of the Mediterranean, there’s a humble leafy green dish that’s cherished across Middle Eastern households—Mulukhiyah. This hearty, verdant stew boasts a history as rich as its flavor, bringing comfort and tradition to every bite. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family gatherings and age-old recipes passed down through generations.

Imagine the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, mingling with the scent of seasoned meat, as vibrant leaves of mulukhiyah slowly transform into a silky, savory stew. Each spoonful offers a taste of nostalgia, evoking memories of cozy dinners and lively conversations around the table.

Ingredients

• 1.75 lbs (800 g) mulukhiyah (jute leaves or spinach)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 10 oz (300 g) beef, cut into cubes or chicken cutlets
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups (1 liter) water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 118 ml) olive oil

Step-by-step

1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in 3-4 tablespoons (approx. 1.5 to 2 oz) of olive oil until translucent.
2. Add the beef cubes or chicken cutlets, searing them for about 3-4 minutes on each side to lock in flavor.
3. Pour in the water, just enough to cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook until the meat is tender—using a pressure cooker can speed up this process, pressing the meat for about 5 minutes.
4. Once the meat is cooked, add the frozen mulukhiyah to the pot, stirring until it thaws completely and the mixture begins to boil.
5. In a separate skillet, warm the remaining olive oil and gently cook the minced garlic over medium-low heat until fragrant, being careful not to brown it—browning can make it bitter.
6. Slowly pour the garlic and oil mixture into the stew, lower the heat, and simmer everything gently for 5 to 10 minutes.
7. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot, garnished generously with lemon juice for a bright, tangy contrast.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an authentic experience, serve Mulukhiyah alongside fluffy short-grain rice or warm pita bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving truly elevates the dish, adding a lively acidity that complements the rich, savory greens.

Closing thoughts

Cooking Mulukhiyah is like gathering around a storyteller—each step filled with care, tradition, and warmth. Whether you’re familiar with Middle Eastern flavors or trying something new, this dish invites you to slow down and savor the comforting aroma and taste of a community’s heritage. Enjoy every spoonful as a small voyage into the heart of Middle Eastern culinary culture!