Discover the heartwarming flavors of the Middle East with our delightful Mujadarah Rice and Lentils recipe! This nourishing dish, rich in protein and bursting with the sweet aroma of caramelized onions, is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, Mujadarah is a culinary gem that promises to impress your family and friends. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that’s both hearty and healthy. Are you ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 cup rice
- 2 onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Cumin for seasoning
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or debris.
- In a large pot, combine the lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 15 minutes until lentils are partially cooked but still firm.
- While lentils are cooking, prepare the caramelized onions. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn deep golden brown and caramelized, approximately 20-25 minutes.
- Add rice to the partially cooked lentils, along with the remaining 2 cups of water. Season with salt and ground cumin.
- Cover the pot and continue cooking on low heat for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until both rice and lentils are tender and have absorbed all the liquid.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let the mixture rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Fluff the rice and lentil mixture with a fork, then top generously with the caramelized onions.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional cumin or fresh herbs like parsley.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Before cooking, make sure to rinse the lentils well to remove any impurities. This ensures a cleaner taste and better texture.
- Perfectly Caramelized Onions: Patience is key when caramelizing onions. Cook them slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, to achieve that deep golden brown color and sweet flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and cumin to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give your dish a delightful kick!
- Resting Time Matters: After cooking, let the Mujadarah rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and a sprinkle of extra cumin for an added burst of flavor and color.
- Make it a Meal: Serve Mujadarah with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
