Loof – Traditional Herbal Dish

Loof – Traditional Herbal Dish

Loof is a highly nutritious herbal dish that has been valued for centuries for its health benefits. It is widely prepared in the Levant, especially in Syria and Palestine, where it remains part of traditional cooking.

Loof is a wild plant that grows in the mountains of the Levant, North Africa, and parts of Europe. People have been using it since ancient times for both its nutritional value and medicinal properties.

Every 100 grams of loof contains about 112 calories, 0.2 grams of fat, 26.46 grams of carbohydrates, 4.1 grams of fiber, and 1.5 grams of protein.

It is believed to protect the body against cancer, boost immunity, and fight harmful bacterial infections in the stomach and intestines. Because it is rich in minerals such as iodine, and especially iron, it is recommended for people with anemia. Loof also provides a good amount of protein, helps with skin conditions and alopecia, and its fiber content supports bowel health and prevents constipation.

Ingredients:

 

• 250 g loof leaves

• 1 onion

• 500 g fine white flour

• ½ cup olive oil

• A small amount of water

• A pinch of salt

Preparation Method:

1. First, clean the loof by removing the leaves from the stems. Chop the leaves and place them in a deep pot. Wash thoroughly with water and salt to make sure they are completely clean.

2. Chop the onion and sauté it in olive oil over medium heat until softened. Add the loof and stir, then pour in a little water and let it boil for a short while.

3. In the meantime, knead the flour with water until you get a dough. Rub and stretch the dough to form thin strings of pasta-like pieces.

4. Once the loof is cooked, add the dough pieces into the same pot and let them boil together until the dough is fully cooked.

5. Serve hot in bowls for the family to enjoy the rich, traditional flavor.