Stuffed Cabbage With Meat(Malfoof Mihshee)
Malfoof Mihshee features tender cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned ground lamb and rice, simmered in a flavorful lemon-mint broth, offering a comforting, aromatic dish perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of water with 1 tablespoon salt.
- Cut around the core of the cabbage with a small sharp knife.
- Put the cabbage in boiling water and separate the leaves one by one.
- Cut large leaves into 2 to 3 pieces, removing the thick part of the stem.
- Combine ground lamb, rice, salt, allspice, and minced garlic.
- Add 2 tablespoons lemon juice to the meat mixture.
- Place 1 tablespoon of stuffing on each leaf in a log shape.
- Roll the leaf, folding over the sides to enclose the filling.
- Squeeze gently and place the stuffed leaves in the pot.
- Add the lamb bone and trimmed stem pieces to the pot for flavor.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls in rows and layers, inserting slices of garlic between them.
- Mash 1 clove garlic with 1 teaspoon salt and dried mint.
- Pour water over the cabbage to just cover the rolls.
- Bring to a boil.
- Add the mashed garlic mixture and 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
- Place a plate on top to weigh down the rolls.
- Cover and simmer on very low heat for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some chopped onions or fresh herbs like parsley to the meat mixture. If you want a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the lamb with ground turkey or beef. To enhance the dish, serve it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad. Make sure to adjust the salt accordingly if using pre-seasoned meat.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed cabbage pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes like Greek-Style Lamb And Lentil Stew. A drizzle of lemon juice on top just before serving can add a zesty touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the rolls in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage With Meat(Malfoof Mihshee) contains roughly 264 calories, with 7g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1198mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of meat for the stuffing?
Yes, you can substitute the lamb with ground beef, turkey, or even a combination of meats. Just be mindful of cooking times and adjust any seasoning to match the meat's flavor profile.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of lentils, quinoa, or mushrooms, and add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure a flavorful filling.
What should I do if I can't find fresh cabbage?
If fresh cabbage is unavailable, you can use blanched cabbage leaves from frozen cabbage. Alternatively, you could try using large collard green leaves or Swiss chard, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
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).