Description
Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice, known as Mujaddara, is a flavorful vegan Middle Eastern dish made with tender brown or green lentils, long-grain rice, and topped with caramelized onions. This comforting meal combines earthy spices like cumin and allspice, offering a nutritious and wholesome option perfect for any mealtime.
Ingredients
Scale
Legumes and Grains
- 3/4 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1/2 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
Liquids
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Spices and Oils
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils: In a medium saucepan, add the lentils and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 15 minutes until the lentils start to soften.
- Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the rinsed rice, ground cumin, ground allspice, salt, and black pepper into the saucepan. Cover with a lid and cook over low heat for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until both lentils and rice are tender and the liquid has been absorbed completely.
- Caramelize the Onions: While the lentils and rice are cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 15 to 20 minutes until they become deeply caramelized and golden brown, developing a rich sweetness.
- Combine and Serve: Once the lentils and rice are cooked, fluff the mixture gently with a fork and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve warm or at room temperature, generously topping each portion with the caramelized onions for a traditional and delicious finish.
Notes
- Traditionally served with plain yogurt or a fresh cucumber salad to complement the flavors.
- Using cooked rice and lentils can speed up the preparation; just simmer briefly with the spices to let the flavors meld.
- Avoid using red lentils as they become too soft and mushy for this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
