Mujaddara Recipe- Lebanese Special
Mujaddara is a classic Middle Eastern dish that combines the earthy flavors of lentils and rice with the rich, sweet taste of caramelized onions. Valued for its simplicity and hearty flavor, Mujaddara is a comforting and nutritious meal with a long history in the region. It transforms humble ingredients into a delicious and satisfying dish. Typically garnished with fresh parsley and served alongside yogurt or salad, Mujaddara is a cherished and versatile staple of Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time50 min
- Total Time1 hr
Mujaddara Ingredients:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 1/2 cup long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving, optional)
How to Make Lebanese Mujaddara
Prepare Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water. Place them in a pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
Cook Rice: In a separate pot, bring 1 cup of water or broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Caramelize Onions: While the lentils and rice are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they become deep golden brown and caramelized. This can take about 15-20 minutes.
Add Spices: To the caramelized onions, add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes to let the spices bloom.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked lentils and rice to the skillet with the onions and spices. Mix well, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.
Serve: Transfer the Mujaddara to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor.
Recipe Notes:
Onion Caramelization: Caramelizing the onions until they are deeply browned adds a rich, sweet flavor that is essential to authentic Mujaddara.
Rice and Lentils: Ensure the rice and lentils are cooked separately before combining to avoid overcooking or uneven texture.
Variations: Some variations include adding a dollop of yogurt or a side salad. For extra crunch, you can top with crispy fried onions.
Serving Suggestions: Mujaddara is often served with a side of yogurt, a fresh salad, or pickled vegetables.
