Anghamelkhalili

Palestinian Molokhia Recipe (ملوخية – Jute Leaves / Dahon ng Saluyot)

Ingredients (for 4-6 people):

For the broth and chicken (optional): – 1 whole chicken or chicken thighs/breasts – 1 medium onion – 3-4 garlic cloves – 1-2 bay leaves – Cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick (optional – traditional Palestinian spices) – Salt + black pepper – Water (enough to cover the chicken)

For the Molokhia: – 400-600g frozen chopped molokhia (Jute Leaves) – 4-5 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth if no chicken) – Salt to taste – Pinch of sugar (optional)

For the Tadka / Tasha (the secret of the flavor): – Vegetable oil (4-6 tablespoons) – 9 garlic cloves – 1-2 green chilies (according to desired heat) – Light pinch of salt

For serving: – White rice or rice with vermicelli – Fresh lemon – Green onions or pickles (optional)

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the broth and chicken (if using):

   • Wash the chicken well and place it in a pot with the onion, garlic, spices, salt, and water.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked (40-60 minutes).
   • Strain the broth and set it aside. You can brown the chicken pieces in the oven or a pan if desired.

2. Prepare the Molokhia:

   • Heat the broth in a pot until hot.
   • Add the frozen molokhia directly and stir until it thaws and mixes well.
   • Add salt and the pinch of sugar.
   • Let it come to just two quick boils on medium heat, then immediately turn off the heat. Do not over-boil so it keeps its bright green color.

3. The Tadka (Tasha – the flavor booster):

   • In a small pan, heat the vegetable oil well.
   • Finely crush the 9 garlic cloves with the green chili(es) (using a mortar & pestle or blender).just two quick boils –> just stir quickly twice
   • Add the crushed mixture to the hot oil and stir quickly until the garlic turns lightly golden and fragrant (do not burn it).
   • Pour the hot tadka directly over the molokhia and stir well.
   • Cover the pot for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.

4. Serving:

   • Serve the molokhia hot with rice and chicken (if using), with fresh lemon squeezed on top.

Palestinian Molokhia Tips:

• The garlic + green chili tadka is what gives it the distinctive Palestinian flavor.
• Rich chicken broth makes a big difference.
• If making it vegetarian: use vegetable broth or water + vegetable stock cubes.
• Frozen molokhia (Jute Leaves) works excellently and gives a beautiful green color.

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