Malfuf

Malfuf is a traditional dish consisting of blanched cabbage leaves that have been rolled around a filling of minced meat and rice before being simmered in lemon-garlic sauce. Traditionally, the filling is made with minced lamb, although minced beef or even chickpeas (for vegetarian versions) can also be used instead of lamb. The rice-and-meat mixture is usually enhanced with onions, samneh (clarified butter), and spices such as baharat spice or allspice, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Water or meat stock can be used for the sauce, while the lemon juice is sometimes replaced with a combination of pomegranate molasses and water. Malfuf is usually enjoyed hot or warm as a main dish, and it is typically accompanied by plain yogurt, pita bread, and fresh lemon wedges on the side. There are numerous versions of this specialty that are commonly prepared across the Levant, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans.