Veg Lebanese Mihshi Malfuf Recipe (Stuffed Cabbage Leaves)
Experience the delightful flavors of the Middle East with this Veg Lebanese Mihshi Malfuf recipe, which features tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory rice and garbanzo bean filling. This vegetarian dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, Mihshi Malfuf is often accompanied by a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and served with a side of Mujaddara, a delicious lentil and rice dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cabbage (Patta Gobi / Muttaikose) | 1 large head |
| Basmati rice | 1 cup, washed |
| White garbanzo beans | ½ cup, soaked overnight |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, peeled |
| Fresh lemon juice | From 4 lemons |
| All spice powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley leaves | 3 tablespoons, chopped |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Homemade tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley leaves | A few, for garnish |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~300 kcal |
| Protein | ~9 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~55 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~7 g |
| Fat | ~9 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Course: Appetizer
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prep the Cabbage:
Start by thoroughly cleaning the cabbage. In a large kettle, bring water to a boil and parboil the entire head of cabbage just long enough to soften the leaves, making them easier to separate. Once softened, carefully transfer the cabbage leaves to a colander and allow them to cool slightly. -
-
Prepare the Filling:
While the cabbage is cooling, take a large bowl and combine the washed basmati rice, soaked garbanzo beans, chopped tomato, chopped onion, peeled garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, all spice powder, chopped parsley, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create a cohesive stuffing mixture. -
Stuff the Cabbage Leaves:
Lay each cabbage leaf on a clean cutting board. If the stem is particularly thick, carefully trim it away to make rolling easier. Take 1 to 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and spread it along the edge of the leaf. Roll the leaf tightly over the stuffing, tucking in the sides as you go to enclose the filling completely. -
Arrange in the Pot:
Once all the leaves are stuffed, arrange them snugly in a wide, deep cooking pot. Place some peeled garlic cloves between the rolls for added flavor. Pour the homemade tomato puree and water over the stuffed cabbage, ensuring the rolls are well covered. Season with salt, black pepper, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. If the sauce does not fully cover the rolls, add more water as necessary. -
Cook the Mihshi Malfuf:
Gently shake or tilt the pot to help distribute the sauce. To prevent the rolls from floating, place a heavy plate on top of them. Cover the pot and turn the heat to high. Bring to a boil for about 5 to 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for an additional 40 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. -
Serve:
Once cooked, serve the Veg Lebanese Mihshi Malfuf hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley leaves and a generous squeeze of lemon juice for an added zesty kick. This dish pairs perfectly with Mujaddara, making it an ideal choice for a weekend dinner or any special occasion.
Tips for Success
- Cabbage Preparation: Ensure you use a large head of cabbage to yield enough leaves for rolling. Savoy cabbage is often preferred for its tenderness.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to the stuffing mixture, such as dill or mint, for a unique flavor twist.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish can also be served with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce for added richness.
Enjoy this heartwarming Veg Lebanese Mihshi Malfuf, a dish that embodies the essence of Middle Eastern hospitality and flavors. Whether for a gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will undoubtedly impress and satisfy.
