Discover the delightful flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with our enticing Mujadara Safra, a comforting dish that beautifully combines red lentils and rice. This wholesome recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a vibrant gathering with friends. With its rich, caramelized onions and earthy spices, Mujadara Safra is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s both simple and scrumptious? Let’s dive into the world of lentils and rice!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 cup rice
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, removing any potential debris or impurities.
- In a medium-sized pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until they become golden brown and slightly caramelized, which will take approximately 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Remove half of the caramelized onions and set aside for garnishing later. Keep the remaining onions in the pot.
- Add rinsed red lentils to the pot with the remaining onions. Pour 2½ cups of water into the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the lentils for about 10-12 minutes until they become soft and start to break down.
- Add rice to the pot, season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and continue cooking on low heat for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until rice is tender and has absorbed all liquid.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and rice to fully absorb remaining moisture.
- Fluff the mixture with a fork, transfer to a serving dish, and garnish with the reserved caramelized onions.
- Serve hot as a comforting, nutritious main dish or side course.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse red lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris or impurities. This simple step ensures a cleaner, tastier dish.
- Perfectly Caramelized Onions: Take your time sautéing the onions until they are golden brown. This process enhances the flavor and adds a sweet depth to the dish. Stir occasionally to prevent burning!
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a little more water when cooking the lentils and rice. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking is crucial. It lets the flavors meld together and ensures the rice absorbs any remaining moisture for the perfect consistency.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the reserved caramelized onions for garnish! They not only add visual appeal but also enhance the overall taste of the Mujadara Safra.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad to complement the earthy flavors of the lentils and rice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
