Mujadara Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mujadara is both nourishing and delicious, with the sweetness of caramelized onions balancing the earthy lentils and fluffy rice. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that uses pantry staples and works well for meal prep. Plus, it’s a traditional recipe with deep cultural roots, offering both comfort and authenticity.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Brown or green lentils

• Long-grain rice (such as basmati)

• Olive oil

• Yellow onions, thinly sliced

• Garlic, minced (optional)

• Ground cumin

• Ground coriander

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Water or vegetable broth

Directions

1. Rinse lentils and rice separately, then set aside.

2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly until deeply caramelized, about 25–30 minutes. Remove half of the onions and set aside for topping.

3. Add garlic (if using), cumin, and coriander to the pot with the remaining onions. Stir for 1 minute.

4. Stir in lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

5. Add rice, salt, and pepper, then cover and cook for another 20 minutes until rice and lentils are tender.

6. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

7. Serve topped with the reserved caramelized onions.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• With Spices: Add cinnamon, allspice, or turmeric for a deeper flavor.

• Different Grains: Substitute bulgur or quinoa for rice.

• Extra Veggies: Mix in sautéed spinach, kale, or roasted carrots.

• Crunchy Topping: Add toasted pine nuts or almonds.

• Yogurt on the Side: Serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture.

FAQs

What kind of lentils work best for Mujadara?

Brown or green lentils work best since they hold their shape while cooking.

Can I make Mujadara with red lentils?

Red lentils break down and become mushy, so they’re not ideal for this dish.

Is Mujadara gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free when made with rice or gluten-free grains.

Can I use white rice instead of brown?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time since white rice cooks faster.

Why are my onions not caramelizing?

Cook them slowly over medium-low heat with enough oil; rushing will cause burning.

Can I make Mujadara in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook onions on sauté mode, then pressure cook rice and lentils together for 10 minutes.

What can I serve with Mujadara?

It pairs well with salad, roasted vegetables, yogurt, or pita bread.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure to use a large enough pot so the rice cooks evenly.

Does Mujadara taste better the next day?

Yes, the flavors deepen as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

Mujadara is a humble yet flavorful dish that brings together the perfect combination of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions. With its earthy taste, comforting texture, and cultural richness, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish. Whether served fresh or reheated, Mujadara is a timeless comfort food you’ll want to make again and again

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