Makmoor Malfouf – Levantine Cabbage & Meat Stew Recipe
Makmoor Malfouf is a traditional dish from the Levantine cuisine, known for its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation. This nutrient-packed dish is loved by both adults and children and is perfect for family meals.
Ingredients for Makmoor Malfouf:
For the Meat:
- 1 kg ground lamb
- ½ kg lamb slices (thinly cut)
- 3 bay leaves
- ¼ cup olive oil (or 4 tablespoons ghee)
- 2 tablespoons salt
For the Rice & Cabbage:
- 1 kg rice
- 1 kg cabbage leaves
- 1 cup sumac granules
- ¼ teaspoon pomegranate molasses
How to Prepare Makmoor Malfouf:
1. Preparing the Meat:
- In a deep pot, place the lamb slices, cover them with water, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add bay leaves and let the meat boil until it is half-cooked.
2. Preparing the Cabbage & Rice:
- Separate the cabbage leaves and wash them thoroughly. Drain them in a colander and let them dry.
- Rinse the rice several times with cold water, then soak it in lukewarm water with a pinch of salt for 30 minutes.
- After soaking, drain the rice well and rinse it again with cold water.
3. Preparing the Sumac Water:
- In a saucepan, add sumac and water, then heat over low heat until it starts to boil.
- Once boiling, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Cooking the Ground Meat & Cabbage:
- In a pan, add ground lamb with ½ cup of water and a pinch of salt, then cook on low heat until the water evaporates.
- Add olive oil and stir the ground meat until it changes color.
- Add the chopped cabbage leaves and stir well until the cabbage wilts.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Assembling & Cooking the Dish:
- In a large cooking pot, layer the half-boiled lamb slices at the bottom.
- Spread half of the cooked cabbage and meat mixture over the lamb.
- Create a well in the center and pour the soaked rice inside.
- Cover the rice with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture.
- Sprinkle salt and drizzle pomegranate molasses over the top.
- Arrange the remaining lamb slices over the surface.
- Pour the sumac water mixture over the ingredients until fully submerged.
6. Cooking & Serving:
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Once fully cooked, turn off the heat and wrap the pot with a thick cloth for 10 minutes to retain the heat.
- Carefully invert the pot onto a serving platter.
- Garnish with lemon slices and serve hot with a side of cold yogurt.
Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Levantine dish with your family! Sahtein! 🍽️✨

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