Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful Dairy-Free Molokhia, a comforting Middle Eastern stew brimming with antioxidant-rich molokhia leaves and aromatic spices. Made with fresh or frozen molokhia, simmered in a savory chicken broth seasoned with garlic, ground coriander, and a refreshing splash of lemon juice, this recipe is a perfect balance of wholesome and bold flavors. Sautéed onions and bay leaf add depth to the dish, while optional protein such as tender chicken or beef and a bed of fluffy white rice make it irresistibly hearty. This molokhia recipe is entirely dairy-free, making it a wonderful choice for those with dietary restrictions without compromising taste. Ready in just an hour, it’s an easy-to-make, healthful meal that’s ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping. Savor the vibrant flavors of this traditional dish—comfort food with a sophisticated twist!
If using frozen molokhia, allow it to thaw at room temperature before starting.
In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
In a separate pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the ground coriander and continue to cook for another minute.
Add the sautéed garlic and coriander mixture to the simmering broth.
Gently add the molokhia leaves into the pot, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes if using fresh leaves or 5-10 minutes if using thawed leaves, until the molokhia is tender.
If using, add your optional protein like cooked chicken or beef to the pot to warm through.
Stir in the lemon juice just before serving, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve the molokhia in bowls over a bed of cooked white rice.
Calories |
1634 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.0 g | 72% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9 g | 50% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 255 mg | 85% | |
| Sodium | 5930 mg | 258% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 147.0 g | 53% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.2 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.3 g | ||
| Protein | 141.5 g | 283% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 1357 mg | 104% | |
| Iron | 26.8 mg | 149% | |
| Potassium | 4840 mg | 103% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.