Mjaddra (Lentils With Rice)_1

Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
Hearty, spiced lentil and rice stew with caramelized onions
Mjaddra (Lentils With Rice recipe image

Mjaddra (Lentils With Rice)_1

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 484.1

Description

Mjaddra is a comforting Middle Eastern staple that combines brown lentils and rice into a savory, nutrient-rich dish. The lentils provide a hearty, earthy base, while the rice adds texture and substance. This recipe shines with the addition of caramelized onions and warm spices like cumin and allspice (or the traditional Lebanese blend, bhar). It creates a deep, aromatic flavor profile that is both satisfying and wholesome. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this vegan and vegetarian-friendly meal is easy to prepare using pantry staples. Serve it warm with a crisp salad or pickled radishes for a balanced, home-style feast that feeds the family well.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Place the lentils in a large pot, cover with plenty of water, and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer the lentils until tender but not mushy, about 20-25 minutes.
  4. Drain the lentils, reserving about 2 cups of the cooking liquid.
  5. In a separate large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  6. Add the chopped onions and sauté until deep golden brown and caramelized, stirring frequently.
  7. In a large pot, combine the cooked lentils, uncooked rice, cumin, allspice (or bhar), and salt.
  8. Add the caramelized onions and their oil to the lentil mixture.
  9. Pour in the reserved lentil cooking liquid and enough additional water to cover the mixture by about an inch.
  10. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  11. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 484.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 30.7g48%
Saturated Fat 4.4g23%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 14629.9mg610%
Total Carbohydrate 41.4g14%
Dietary Fiber 10.6g43%
Sugars 4.3g
Protein 12.6g26%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: lentils, rice, mjaddra, middle eastern, lebanese, vegan, vegetarian, cumin, allspice, bhar, caramelized onions, stew, comfort food, plant based, healthy dinner, one pot meal, spiced lentils
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