Malfouf Mehshi (stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Malfouf Mehshi, or Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, is a classic dish in Levantine cuisine, featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of rice, ground meat, and aromatic spices. This dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Levantine Levantine Cuisine Cabbage Rolls Stuffed Cabbage Middle Eastern Food
Malfouf Mehshi (stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 cup of rice
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups of tomato sauce
  • 2 cups of chicken or beef broth

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are tender and can be easily removed. Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool. Gently peel off the leaves and set them aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, ground meat, onion, tomatoes, parsley, mint, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface and trim the thick center stem. Spoon a portion of the meat and rice mixture onto the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly, similar to a burrito. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
  4. In a large pot, arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in a single layer. Pour the tomato sauce and broth over the rolls. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
  5. Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Sharp knife Large bowl Wooden spoon Large pot for cooking

Tools

Cutting board Chef's knife Measuring cups and spoons Large spoon Cooking tongs

Serving suggestions

Serve the Malfouf Mehshi with a side of creamy hummus, fresh tabbouleh, and warm pita bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips & tricks

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the ground meat with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a delicious plant-based alternative.

Cost

$15