Mujadarra is a comforting, nutrient-dense dish that brings the warm, savory flavors of the Middle East to your dinner table. This recipe combines earthy brown lentils with nutty long-grain brown rice, simmered together to create a cohesive, hearty meal. The true star, however, is the layer of deeply caramelized onions, which adds a rich, sweet contrast to the savory grains. Perfect as a standalone vegan main or a robust side dish, it’s ideal for chilly evenings or potluck gatherings. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this dish offers a wholesome, home-cooked experience that is both satisfying and elegant.
Lentils & Rice (Mujadarra)
Description
Mujadarra is a comforting, nutrient-dense dish that brings the warm, savory flavors of the Middle East to your dinner table. This recipe combines earthy brown lentils with nutty long-grain brown rice, simmered together to create a cohesive, hearty meal. The true star, however, is the layer of deeply caramelized onions, which adds a rich, sweet contrast to the savory grains. Perfect as a standalone vegan main or a robust side dish, it&# 226;ÂÂs ideal for chilly evenings or potluck gatherings. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this dish offers a wholesome, home-cooked experience that is both satisfying and elegant.Ingredients
Directions
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Dice 3 of the yellow onions finely.
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Heat a large heavy skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil.
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Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté slowly until they are quite brown and caramelized, then set aside.
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Rinse the lentils and place them in a large covered pot with 3 1/2 cups of cold water.
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Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until lentils are partially cooked.
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Stir the cooked caramelized onions, long-grain brown rice, and salt into the pot with the lentils.
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Cover the pot and continue to simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
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Remove the pot from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the grains to rest.
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Meanwhile, slice the remaining 2 onions into thin rings.
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Heat the skillet again over medium-high heat with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
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Sauté the onion rings quickly until they are tender-crisp and lightly browned.
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Fluff the lentil and rice mixture gently, transfer to a serving dish, and top with the sautéed onion rings before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 286.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12.2g19%
- Saturated Fat 1.8g9%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 9762.2mg407%
- Total Carbohydrate 37.4g13%
- Dietary Fiber 7.9g32%
- Sugars 6.6g
- Protein 8.3g17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
