Description
This Middle Eastern Mujadara recipe is a wholesome and flavorful combination of lentils and rice, seasoned simply and topped with deeply caramelized onions. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, this dish can be enjoyed as a hearty main or a satisfying side. The lentils and rice are simmered to tender perfection, infused with warm spices, and balanced with the sweetness of the onions.
Ingredients
For the Mujadara:
- 5 small-medium onions (about 500 g), sliced
- 1.5 cups (300 g) green or brown lentils
- 1 cup (180 g) brown rice or white rice
- 5 to 5 ½ cups water, divided
- 1 tbsp vegetable bouillon powder
- 1 ½ tsp salt, divided
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Soak and Prepare Ingredients: If using brown rice, soak it for 20 minutes then drain. Similarly, soak lentils in cold water and drain to improve cooking time and evenness. Slice the onions during this time.
- Cook Brown Rice (if using): In a large pot, combine soaked brown rice and 2 ½ cups water. Bring to a boil, then stir in vegetable bouillon powder, 1 tsp salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes on low heat.
- Add Lentils and Simmer: After 20 minutes, add drained lentils and 3 cups water to the pot. Stir, cover, and bring back to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer covered for 25 minutes until lentils and rice are tender.
- Caramelize Onions: While the lentils cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions, stir, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes. Uncover, add cumin and remaining ½ tsp salt, then cook uncovered for another 5-10 minutes until deeply caramelized. Increase heat if a crispier texture is desired.
- Finishing the Mujadara: Once lentils and rice are tender, check for doneness and cook a few more minutes if needed. Turn off heat and keep covered for a few minutes. Remove bay leaves, then fold about two-thirds of the caramelized onions into the lentil and rice mixture.
- Serve: Serve mujadarra in bowls, topped with remaining caramelized onions, dairy-free yogurt, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Soaking both the lentils and brown rice helps reduce cooking time and improves texture.
- If using white rice, adjust water and cook time accordingly (typically less soaking and simmering time).
- You can use all yellow or all red onions, but a mix adds complexity to flavor and color.
- If a crispier onion topping is preferred, increase heat slightly during final caramelizing stage.
- This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free—perfect for diverse dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
