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Mujadara (Lentils and Rice) Recipe

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Mujadara is a classic Middle Eastern comfort dish of tender brown lentils and fluffy rice topped with crispy caramelized onions, seasoned simply with cumin for an earthy, satisfying vegan meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati, rinsed
  • 3 large yellow onions (2 thinly sliced for caramelizing, 1 finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 4 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp salt, divided
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Optional: plain yogurt

Instructions

  • 1. In medium pot, combine rinsed lentils with 3 cups water and 1 tsp salt. Bring to boil, then simmer 15-20 minutes until partially tender. Add rinsed rice, chopped onion, 2 tbsp olive oil, cumin, pepper, and remaining water. Bring to boil, reduce to low, cover and cook 20 minutes until liquid absorbed.
  • 2. Meanwhile, heat 1/4 cup olive oil in skillet over medium. Add sliced onions and 1 tsp salt. Cook 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and caramelized.
  • 3. Remove mujadara from heat, fluff with fork, cover 10 minutes. Serve topped with crispy onions and garnishes.

Notes

  • Dark caramelized onions are key to authentic flavor – don’t rush this step.
  • Use brown lentils for classic texture; green also work well.
  • Bulgur may replace rice for nuttier variation.
  • Perfect with yogurt, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: mujadara, lentils and rice, lebanese mujadara, caramelized onions

Find it online: https://dishfoody.com/traditional-mujadara-with-crispy-caramelized-onion/