Molokhia

Molokhia is a leafy vegetable and the name of a traditional soup or stew made from its leaves.

Molokhia is a leafy vegetable derived from *Corchorus olitorius* (jute mallow) and the name of a traditional soup or stew made from its leaves. It is especially associated with Egyptian cuisine and is common across the Middle East and North Africa.

Definition

Molokhia refers both to the edible leaves of *Corchorus olitorius* and to a dish prepared from those leaves. The term is used for both the plant and the cooked preparation in many culinary contexts.

Culinary use

In cooking, molokhia is usually simmered into a soup or stew rather than eaten raw. It is often seasoned with garlic, coriander, broth, and served with rice or bread. Cooked molokhia has a thick, mucilaginous texture that is sometimes compared to okra.

Cultural significance

Molokhia is closely linked with Egyptian food culture and is widely recognized throughout the Arab world. Some sources describe it as a national or emblematic dish of Egypt. In Canada, it is known through Egyptian, Levantine, and broader Middle Eastern and North African communities, and may appear in specialty groceries and restaurants.

Plant characteristics

The plant is a leafy annual grown for its edible leaves, which can become slimy when cooked because of their mucilage content. It is also cultivated in other regions as a vegetable crop.