Instant pot Molokhia
Molokhia in the Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to enjoy this comforting Middle Eastern dish, with tender, garlicky leaves simmered in flavorful broth—perfect with rice and a squeeze of lemon.
Servings 8 People
Ingredients
- 250 g dried molokhia leaves
- 1 onion chopped
- 10 –12 garlic cloves minced
- ½ –1 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 small tomato or ½ cup cherry tomatoes chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 7 spice
- Optional: 1 chicken bouillon cube for extra flavor in the broth
- Cooked chicken chopped or shredded
- Chicken broth enough to cover the molokhia
Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add olive oil.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add the chopped cilantro and stir for about a minute.
- Add the molokhia leaves and mix well to coat them with the aromatics.
- Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the liquid is slightly more than the molokhia.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional seven spice.
- Close the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and pressure cook on High for 20 minutes.
- Once done, do a quick (fast) release.
- Open the lid carefully and add lemon juice to taste.
- Add the cooked chicken and gently stir.
- Optional: sauté extra garlic and cilantro separately and spoon it on top before serving.
Notes
- Molokhia leaves vary in texture: Some cook faster than others, so adjust timing as needed.
- Prevent sliminess: A little tomato or lemon juice helps keep the leaves from getting too slimy.
- Broth tips: Homemade broth gives the richest flavor, but store-bought broth with a bouillon cube works well too.
- Storage: You can freeze cleaned leaves ready to cook, or fully cooked molokhia in containers. Reheat gently on low heat.
- Serving ideas: Pair with vermicelli rice, crispy pita, and lemon-onion or lemon-vinegar-onion sauce.
- Flavor variations: Add black pepper, seven spice, or a touch of chili for a personal twist.
- Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth and optional protein like chickpeas or mushrooms.
- Alternative meats: Lamb, beef, or turkey can replace chicken; adjust cooking time for tenderness.