Mujaddara Recipe- Lebanese Special

Mujaddara is a beloved Lebanese dish that combines the earthy flavors of lentils and rice with the rich, sweet taste of caramelized onions. This hearty, vegan comfort food has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, valued for its simplicity and nourishing qualities. Typically garnished with fresh parsley and served alongside yogurt or salad, Mujaddara transforms humble ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful meal.

  • 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

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

  • Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Some variations include adding allspice or cinnamon for a different flavor profile.

  • Serving Suggestions: Serve Mujaddara with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad to complement the dish. A drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the flavors.

  • Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.