Molokhiya(Egyptian Soup)
A hearty Egyptian soup featuring tender chicken, flavorful molokhiya, garlic, and coriander, perfect for comforting meals and packed with savory, herbal flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the molokhiya and set aside.
- In a large pot, boil the chicken in water with the chicken bouillon cube until cooked.
- In a food processor, blend the tomatoes and onion until smooth.
- Add the tomato and onion mixture to the boiling chicken and let it boil for about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Add the thawed molokhiya to the pot and stir well.
- In a separate frying pan, heat the cooking oil, then fry the crushed garlic and coriander until golden.
- Add the fried garlic and coriander mixture to the boiling molokhiya.
- Serve hot with pita bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the molokhiya is well-thawed before adding it to the pot. You can replace the frozen molokhiya with fresh leaves if available, adjusting the quantity to about 1 pound. If you're looking to enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin along with the coriander for depth. For a variation, try incorporating some lemon juice for a tangy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the molokhiya hot, accompanied by warm pita bread for dipping. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as the Cinnamon Chicken, or a side of rice for a hearty meal. You can also garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of extra coriander for added flavor. A light salad on the side can provide a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover molokhiya can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture. Freezing is also an option; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molokhiya(Egyptian Soup) contains roughly 428 calories, with 12g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (145% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), and potassium (45% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh molokhiya instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh molokhiya if it's available. You will need about 1 pound of fresh leaves. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly and chop them before adding to your soup.
What can I substitute for chicken bouillon?
If you prefer not to use chicken bouillon, you can substitute it with homemade chicken stock or vegetable broth for a similar flavor profile. Just adjust the salt accordingly, as store-bought broths can vary in saltiness.
Is molokhiya suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Molokhiya itself is vegetarian, but this recipe contains chicken and chicken bouillon. For a vegetarian version, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the chicken, adding more vegetables for substance if desired.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).