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Mujadara Lentils and Rice

Mujadara Lentils and Rice
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Mujadara Lentils and Rice is a flavorful and hearty Middle Eastern dish combining tender brown or green lentils, fluffy long-grain white rice, and sweet caramelized onions. This simple yet nutritious one-pot meal is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Perfect as a main or side dish, it’s budget-friendly and adaptable, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Lentils and Rice

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed until water runs clear
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

Caramelized Onions

  • 2 large yellow or white onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, a pinch (for onions)
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly, then add them to a pot with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare and Caramelize Onions: While the lentils cook, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently and cook slowly until onions become golden brown and caramelized, releasing natural sweetness, about 25-30 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, rinse rice until water runs clear. Add 1 cup rice, 1 cup water or broth, salt, and ground cumin. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is fluffy and water is absorbed.
  4. Combine Lentils and Rice: Gently mix the cooked lentils and rice together in a large bowl or pot until well combined, creating a uniform, earthy base.
  5. Add Caramelized Onions: Top the lentil and rice mixture with the caramelized onions. You may either fold them through gently or layer on top, depending on your preferred presentation.

Notes

  • Slow and steady caramelization of onions is key to developing deep sweetness—do not rush this step.
  • Rinse rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffy, separate grains.
  • Use brown or green lentils as they hold shape better than red lentils.
  • Add salt gradually during cooking to avoid oversalting.
  • Prepare components ahead of time to streamline mealtime.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mujadara, lentils and rice, Middle Eastern recipe, vegan, gluten free, plant-based meal, caramelized onions, hearty dish

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