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Mujadara (Lentils and Rice)

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Mujadara is a comforting Middle Eastern dish made with lentils, rice, and deeply caramelized onions. It’s naturally vegan, budget-friendly, and perfect as a main or hearty side.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried brown or green lentils
  • 3/4 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine)
  • 2–3 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice or cinnamon (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups water or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Rinse the lentils and place them in a pot with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. Rinse the rice and cook it separately according to package directions until fluffy. Set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until deeply golden and slightly crispy at the edges.
  4. Set aside one-third of the caramelized onions for topping.
  5. In a large pot or pan, combine the cooked lentils, rice, and remaining onions. Add cumin, salt, pepper, and optional allspice or cinnamon.
  6. Stir gently to combine and heat through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve warm, topped with the reserved caramelized onions.

Notes

  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a spoonful of yogurt for brightness.
  • Pairs well with cucumber-tomato salad or sautéed greens.
  • Try using a mix of red and yellow onions for added flavor depth.
  • Chopped parsley or mint adds a fresh finish.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/mujadara-lentils-and-rice/