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Mujadara

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A comforting and flavorful Middle Eastern dish made with lentils, rice, and deeply caramelized onions, offering a rich and satisfying taste from simple ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup green or brown lentils
  • 1 cup long-grain or basmati rice
  • 3 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • Optional: yogurt or salad for serving

Instructions

  1. Rinse the lentils and cook them in boiling water for about 15–20 minutes until just tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
  3. Remove half of the caramelized onions and set aside for topping.
  4. In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the rice, cooked lentils, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  8. Turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.
  9. Top with the reserved caramelized onions and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well.
  • Cook onions slowly for best caramelization and flavor.
  • Add a splash of water when reheating to prevent dryness.
  • Optional spices like coriander or cinnamon can enhance flavor.
  • Pairs well with yogurt or a fresh cucumber salad.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/mujadara/