Akkoub

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Akkoub is a wild plant that grows in parts of Lebanon, Syria and Palestine. It is from the sunflower family, and is collected in early spring. It is known for being thorny and prickly, but with a little patience and special gloves, you can dig out the stem and root which is used to make the dish, Akkoub. Once the stem is removed, you can simmer this root to make this delicious, middle eastern delicacy. It is also used to flavour soups, stews, braises and egg dishes, when it is in season.

How to prepare the Akkoub:

1. Using a pointed and sharp scissors, wear gloves and snip off all the thorns.
2. Wash the Akkoub then drop it in a pan with salted rapidly boiling water.
3. Let it cook for 3 minutes then strain on a kitchen towel.
4. At this point you can freeze it once it cools down if you don’t want to cook it right away.

How to Cook the Akkoub:

1. In a medium pan place chopped onions, leeks and celery sauté with some olive oil.
2. Add 1 tbsp of flour and keep stirring until golden.
3. Add 3 C of water and let it boil for 20 minutes.
4. Purée the vegetables and broth.
5. In another pan using some olive oil sauté the onions for 2 minutes.
6. Add the Akkoub and keep cooking.
7. Add cumin, white pepper and onion powder.
8. Add the vegetable purée.
9. Cover and Let all cook on low heat for 20-30 minutes or until you think it’s tender enough.
10. Squeeze some lemon juice and drizzle some olive oil on top.
11. Enjoy with some rice or with some bread