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Mujadara Lentils and Rice

Mujadara Lentils and Rice
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Mujadara Lentils and Rice is a comforting and nutritious Middle Eastern dish combining protein-rich lentils, chewy brown rice, and sweet caramelized onions. This easy-to-make, budget-friendly recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone seeking a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils
  • 3/4 cup long-grain brown rice
  • 2 large yellow or white onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth

Optional Variations and Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, cilantro, or mint, chopped (for garnish)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili (for spicy kick)
  • Toasted pine nuts, almonds, or pomegranate seeds (for texture and flavor)
  • Minced garlic (to sauté with onions)
  • Fresh lemon juice (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and Soak Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Optionally, soak them for 30 minutes to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
  2. Cook Lentils: Place lentils in a pot with water or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until tender yet firm, about 20 minutes.
  3. Prepare Rice: While lentils cook, rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch, then drain and set aside.
  4. Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden brown and crispy, about 20-30 minutes.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Drain excess liquid from lentils. Add rice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot with lentils. Pour in water or broth to cover. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed, about 20 minutes.
  6. Serve with Onions: Fluff the lentils and rice mixture with a fork. Transfer to plates and generously top with caramelized onions. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

  • Choose brown or green lentils as they hold shape and texture well.
  • Patience is key when caramelizing onions for deeper flavor.
  • Rinse lentils and rice thoroughly to avoid gummy textures.
  • Add salt gradually during cooking to enhance flavor without toughening lentils.
  • Let the cooked dish rest covered for 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mujadara, lentils and rice, Middle Eastern, vegan dinner, healthy lentils recipe, comforting meal, easy dinner recipe

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