Delicious Mujaddara: Rice and Lentils with Caramelized Onions

The aroma wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine fluffy rice mingling with tender lentils beneath a crown of sweet, caramelized onions—each bite is a comforting embrace for your taste buds. Rice and Lentils with Caramelized Onions (Mujaddara) is not just a dish; it’s an experience that transforms ordinary moments into something extraordinary.

This hearty meal has been my go-to for cozy dinners since I was knee-high to a grasshopper. Whether it’s a rainy day or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. The savory scents dance in the air as if inviting everyone to gather around the table. Trust me, once you taste this flavor bomb, you’ll be dreaming about it for days to come.

Sharing this dish always brings smiles to my family’s faces—especially when those golden-brown onions hit the table!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Long-Grain Rice: I prefer basmati rice for its nutty flavor and fluffy texture.
• Lentils: Use green or brown lentils; they hold their shape perfectly during cooking.
• Onions: Thinly sliced yellow onions are best for caramelization; they become sweet and rich.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Spices: Cumin and coriander add warmth; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all those wonderful flavors; season to your liking.
• Vegetable Broth or Water: For cooking the rice and lentils; broth adds extra depth.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens everything up beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear. This removes excess starch for fluffier grains later on.

Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook until golden brown—about 20 minutes—stirring occasionally so they don’t burn.

Cook the Lentils In another pot, combine rinsed lentils with water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer until tender—roughly 20-25 minutes.

Combine Rice and Lentils: Once lentils are cooked, add rinsed rice along with cumin and coriander into the pot. Pour in broth or water following package instructions for cooking times.

Simmer Together: Cover the pot tightly and allow everything to simmer on low heat until the rice is fluffy—approximately 15-20 minutes.

Finish It Off: Remove from heat once done; let sit covered for 5 minutes before gently fluffing with a fork. Drizzle some lemon juice over top just before serving.

Enjoy this delightful bowl of Rice and Lentils with Caramelized Onions (Mujaddara) that brings comfort food vibes straight from my kitchen to yours!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the lentils until tender, then prepare the rice separately. Sauté the onions while they cook to achieve that perfect caramelization. Combine everything at the end for optimal flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spices or add veggies like carrots or bell peppers. You can toss in herbs such as parsley or mint for freshness, elevating this comforting dish to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep it moist.

It was one of those chilly evenings when I served Mujaddara to friends who had never tried it before. Their eyes lit up at first bite, and I knew I had found a new favorite dish among them!

FAQ

What is Mujaddara made of?

Mujaddara consists of rice, lentils, and caramelized onions, creating a hearty meal.

Can I make Mujaddara vegan?

Absolutely! This dish is naturally vegan and packed with plant-based protein.

How do I prevent my onions from burning?

Cook onions on low heat and stir frequently for even caramelization without burning.

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Delicious Mujaddara: Rice and Lentils with Caramelized Onions

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the comforting embrace of Mujaddara, a delightful dish combining fluffy rice, tender lentils, and sweet caramelized onions. Perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• Juice of 1 lemon

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Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook sliced onions until golden brown, about 20 minutes.
3. In a pot, simmer rinsed lentils in vegetable broth or water until tender, approximately 20-25 minutes.
4. Combine cooked lentils, rinsed rice, cumin, and coriander in the pot with broth or water according to package instructions.
5. Cover and simmer on low heat until the rice is fluffy, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Let sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Add lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main course
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like paprika or fresh herbs such as parsley. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature and pairs beautifully with yogurt or a fresh salad.