Imagine a soup so vibrant, so rich with history, that it has been cherished in Egyptian kitchens for centuries. Milookhiyya, a hidden gem of Middle Eastern cuisine, is not just a dish—it's a nutritious, flavor-packed experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the banks of the Nile. This emerald-green soup is more than a meal; it's a cultural journey that promises to tantalize your senses and introduce you to a world of exotic, healing flavors that have been treasured by generations.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Egyptian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup milookhiyya leaves (jute leaves)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the milookhiyya leaves under cold running water, removing any stems or damaged leaves. Finely chop the leaves and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, allowing the broth to simmer.
- Carefully add the chopped milookhiyya leaves to the simmering broth. Stir gently to incorporate the leaves evenly throughout the liquid.
- Allow the soup to simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The leaves will soften and the broth will develop a rich, green color.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add lemon juice to brighten the flavor and enhance the herbal notes.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls. Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by warm bread or rice.
Tips
- Choose fresh milookhiyya leaves for the most authentic flavor and maximum nutritional benefits.
- Chop the leaves finely to ensure even distribution and a smooth texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the leaves, as they can become slimy if simmered too long.
- Use high-quality chicken broth for a richer, more robust flavor profile.
- The lemon juice is crucial—it cuts through the richness and brightens the entire dish.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, as the soup can thicken upon standing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
