Silq Mahshi (aleppo-style Stuffed Swiss Chard)

Silq Mahshi is a traditional Syrian dish that features Swiss chard leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat, and aromatic spices. This Aleppo-style recipe is a delicious example of Syrian cuisine and is perfect for a special family meal or gathering.

Silq Mahshi (aleppo-style Stuffed Swiss Chard)

Ingredients

  • 8 large Swiss chard leaves
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 250g ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Blanch the Swiss chard leaves in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to cool. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, mix the rice, ground meat, onion, tomatoes, garlic, allspice, cinnamon, cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place a spoonful of the rice mixture onto each Swiss chard leaf, then fold the sides and roll up to enclose the filling.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Place the stuffed chard leaves seam side down in the pot.
  5. Pour the broth over the stuffed chard leaves, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes until the rice is cooked and the leaves are tender.
  6. Serve the Silq Mahshi hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
15g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Bowl Knife Cutting board Spatula

Tools

Pot Stove

Serving suggestions

Silq Mahshi pairs well with a fresh salad, yogurt, and warm pita bread.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils and add extra vegetables to the filling.

Cost

$15