The traditional Egyptian stuffed cabbage (mahshi) recipe is one of the most popular family dishes. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage, boiled and cut into squares
- 500 g Egyptian rice (washed and soaked for 1 hour)
- Juice of 4 tomatoes
- 2 cups chopped herbs (parsley, dill, coriander)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp ghee (optional)
- Salt & spices: 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dry coriander, bay leaves
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Hot broth (meat, chicken, or vegetable) to cover the cabbage rolls
👩🍳 Preparation Steps
Method 1 (Quick & Easy)
- Mix tomato juice with grated onion, spices, salt, oil, and herbs.
- Add the rice to the mixture and stir well until combined.
- Stuff the cabbage squares and roll tightly.
- Arrange the rolls in a pot and cover with hot broth.
- Dissolve the tomato paste in 1/2 cup broth and pour over the rolls.
- Add ghee on top and cook on low heat until fully cooked.
Method 2 (With Light Sauté)
- Heat ghee and oil, then sauté the onion until soft.
- Add tomatoes, paste, spices, and 1 cup broth, let simmer.
- Remove from heat, add rice and herbs, mix well.
- Stuff the cabbage leaves, arrange in the pot, and cover with hot broth.
- Dissolve some tomato paste and add on top, then cook on low heat until done.
💡 Tips
- Boil the cabbage halfway to make rolling easier.
- Avoid too much salt since broth may already contain salt.
- For richer flavor, use meat or chicken broth.
- You can replace rice with bulgur for a lower glycemic index option.
- Place carrot or pepper slices at the bottom of the pot for extra flavor and texture.
🌟 Benefits
- Cabbage is a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
- It also contains vitamin K and antioxidants that support heart health.
- When prepared with healthy oil, it’s a balanced meal.
Health Disclaimer!
This recipe contains carbohydrates (rice) and fats (if ghee is added). If you are diabetic or following a special diet, consult your doctor or dietitian before making it part of your routine.
FAQs
Can I make stuffed cabbage without meat?
Yes, the recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be served without meat.
Can I replace rice with bulgur?
Yes, bulgur is a healthy option and gives the dish a nice texture and flavor.
How long does it take to cook stuffed cabbage?
Usually 45 minutes to 1 hour on low heat, depending on the amount and rice type.
