Manzalet Al-Zahra (Cauliflower Stew) Recipe: How to Make This Popular Dish

Manzalet Al-Zahra (Cauliflower Stew) Recipe: How to Make This Popular Dish

Manzalet Al-Zahra is a traditional and well-known dish in the Levant (Bilad Al-Sham) region, prepared in various ways. It's a favorite for both adults and children due to its main ingredient, cauliflower, which is rich in nutritional value and health benefits, particularly sulfur compounds.

Every 100 grams of cauliflower contains about 25 calories, 0.28 grams of saturated fat, 2 grams of fiber, 4.97 grams of carbohydrates, and 1.92 grams of protein, making it an excellent option for bodybuilders and those following a diet.

This dish takes 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, serving four people. It is cooked by boiling the ingredients.

Ingredients for Manzalet Al-Zahra:

Manzalet Al-Zahra


  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into large pieces
  • 1 kilogram of beef, cut into medium-sized pieces
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 6 cloves of garlic, sliced
  • 3 cups of tomato juice
  • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons of corn oil
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • ½ teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of cumin
  • Water as needed

Preparation Method for Manzalet Al-Zahra:

  1. Boiling the Meat: In a large pot over medium heat, add water, beef pieces, and the chopped onion. Add the bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Cook until the meat is tender, then strain the broth and set it aside.

  2. Sautéing the Meat: In another pot, heat the corn oil and sauté the chopped onion until it softens. Add the beef pieces, and stir them with the onions. Season with ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of cumin, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Stir until the meat absorbs the flavors and is fully cooked.

  3. Adding Tomatoes and Garlic: Stir in the tomato paste, tomato juice, and sliced garlic. Mix the ingredients well with the beef.

  4. Cooking the Cauliflower: Add the reserved beef broth and the cauliflower pieces to the pot. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes until the cauliflower becomes tender.

  5. Serving: Transfer the stew to a serving dish and serve it hot. Optionally, garnish with finely chopped parsley or cilantro.

Serving Suggestions: This dish can be served with vermicelli rice or garlic yogurt, or both, depending on preference.

Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Manzalet Al-Zahra!

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