Sitti Ibtihaj’s Mtaffaye (مطفية)

A comforting Palestinian yogurt and rice dish with cauliflower

Ingredients

• 1 cauliflower, cut into florets

• 1 cup rice, washed and soaked

• 2 cups yogurt

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 2 cups hot water (plus more as needed)

• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped

• 4 tablespoons garlic, minced

• 4 tablespoons ghee (or oil)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the cauliflower
   Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the cauliflower until tender. Set aside.

2. Prepare the rice
   Wash and soak the rice, then drain.

3. Make the yogurt base
   In a pot, whisk together the yogurt and cornstarch until smooth. Add the hot water and bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously so it doesn’t curdle.

4. Cook the rice
   Add the rice to the yogurt mixture and cook until the rice is fully tender, stirring occasionally.

5. Adjust consistency
   Add more hot water as needed to reach your desired consistency—the dish should be creamy and spoonable, not too thick.

6. Add the cauliflower
   Gently fold in the cooked cauliflower.

7. Prepare the topping
   In a pan, heat the ghee. Add the garlic and cilantro and sauté until fragrant.

8. Finish
   Pour the garlic and cilantro mixture over the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.