Egyptian
Mombar (Stuffed Sausage)
A beloved Egyptian delicacy consisting of beef intestines stuffed with a fragrant mixture of rice, herbs, and tomatoes, boiled and then deep-fried for a crispy finish.
Watch it madeHeba Seif مطبخ هبة سيف فى امريكا · 9:33
Ingredients
- Beef Intestines (Cleaned)1 kg
- Short Grain Rice1 kg
- Tomato Paste3 tbsp
- Mixed Herbs (Parsley, Dill, Coriander)1 bunch each
- Onion2 large
- Oil (for frying)as needed
Method
- Thoroughly clean the beef intestines with salt, vinegar, and flour, then rinse well.
- Mix washed rice with tomato paste, chopped onions, parsley, coriander, dill, oil, and spices to create the filling.
- Stuff the intestines with the rice mixture loosely (do not overfill as rice expands) and tie or tuck the ends.
- Boil the stuffed mombar in water with bay leaves, cardamom, and onion for about 45 minutes until the rice is cooked.
- Drain the mombar and deep fry in hot oil until the exterior is crispy and dark golden brown.
Common questions
Can I substitute the beef intestines with another casing for Mombar?
Yes. Beef or lamb sausage casings work better if you can source them cleaned and prepped. Collagen casings are not ideal for the traditional texture. Avoid very thin casings, which can burst during boiling and frying.
How long should I boil stuffed Mombar before frying?
Simmer gently for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through but the casing is still intact. If the pieces are thick, add 5–10 minutes. Do not hard-boil, or they may split.
What are the most common mistakes when making Mombar?
Overstuffing is the biggest mistake, because the rice expands and bursts the casing. Also avoid skipping the thorough cleaning step, frying before the rice is fully cooked, or using high heat that browns the outside too fast.
How should I store leftover Mombar?
Cool it completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze after boiling and before frying for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly until hot all the way through.
What should I serve with fried Mombar?
Serve it hot with lemon wedges, a simple tomato or tahini sauce, and a fresh salad or pickles. It also pairs well with rice, baladi bread, or fried potatoes for a more filling meal.