Traditional Middle Eastern Mujadarra Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup brown lentils
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 large onions
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
4 cups water
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain. Place them in a saucepan, add water to cover by 1 inch, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer until the lentils are tender but not mushy, about 20 minutes. Drain any excess water and set aside.
While the lentils are cooking, peel and finely chop the onions. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the onions and cook until they are deeply caramelized and browned, about 25 minutes. Be patient – the deep, rich flavor comes from slow-cooked onions.
Remove half of the onions to a bowl and set aside for garnish.
Add the cumin, allspice, and turmeric to the onions in the pan and stir.
Add the rice to the pan and stir it into the onions, making sure each grain is well coated with oil and spices.
Add the cooked lentils, 4 cups of water, and a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 15 minutes.
Keep the lid on the pan and let it sit off the heat for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
Fluff the rice and lentils with a fork, and then taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve the Mujadarra with the reserved caramelized onions on top. Enjoy!

Tools for making

Saucepan - A medium-sized pot used for cooking lentils.
Skillet - A large frying pan with a flat bottom, used for caramelizing onions.
Knife - A sharp tool for chopping onions.
Cutting board - A flat surface used for cutting vegetables.
Fork - A utensil used for fluffing the Mujadarra before serving.
Measuring cup - Used for measuring lentils, rice, and water.
Spatula - A flat utensil used for stirring and flipping ingredients.
Lid - A cover used for simmering the Mujadarra.

Recipe variations

Add chopped fresh parsley or cilantro as a garnish for added freshness.
Squeeze some lemon juice over the Mujadarra before serving for a tangy twist.
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the onion mixture for a hint of warmth and sweetness.
Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top for a crunchy texture.
For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the rice and lentil mixture.
Include diced tomatoes or tomato paste while cooking the rice and lentils for a slightly tangy and vibrant taste.
For a heartier version, add cooked and shredded chicken or lamb to the Mujadarra.
Replace the brown lentils with green or black lentils for a different flavor and texture.
Use quinoa or bulgur instead of rice for a healthier and gluten-free alternative.

Recipe overview

Mujadarra is a classic Middle Eastern dish that combines lentils and rice with deeply caramelized onions. Not only does this dish pack a ton of flavor, but it's also incredibly wholesome and satisfying. The ingredients are simple and economical, making it a go-to comfort food for many families. The spices, including cumin, allspice, and turmeric, add a warm, comforting flavor to the dish, while the caramelized onions lend a rich, sweet depth. The recipe may take some time, particularly for caramelizing the onions, but the result is well worth the wait. This hearty dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish and is meant to be enjoyed with family and friends.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of lentils? Yes, you can use green or black lentils instead of brown lentils, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
Can I use another type of rice? While the recipe calls for long-grain white rice, you can also use basmati rice for a fragrant twist.
Can I use a different type of oil? Yes, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil as a substitute for olive oil if desired.
How do I store leftovers? Allow the Mujadarra to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make this recipe vegan? The Mujadarra recipe is already vegan as it does not contain any animal products.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I freeze Mujadarra? While Mujadarra can be frozen, rice and lentils tend to change texture after freezing. It is best to consume it fresh for the best taste and texture.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - Used for chopping the onions.
Knife - Essential for cutting the onions and preparing the ingredients.
Saucepan - Used for cooking the lentils.
Skillet - Used for caramelizing the onions and cooking the rice.
Spoon or spatula - Needed for stirring the ingredients while cooking.
Fork - Used for fluffing the cooked Mujadarra.
Bowl - Used for setting aside the caramelized onions for garnish.

Origin stories

Mujadarra, a humble yet hearty dish laden with lentils, onions, and rice, has its roots deep in the heart of the Middle East. Evolving over countless generations, this traditional dish has nourished people from every social stratum since time immemorial, from paupers to princes. In fact, its name in Arabic means "pockmarked," a reference to the lentils among the rice that resemble pockmarks. Despite its humble name and simple ingredients, Mujadarra is a testament to the Middle Eastern ability to turn the most basic of ingredients into a feast for the senses. Enriched with the warmth of spices and the golden glory of caramelized onions, it is a dish that bears the heart of a society that knows the true value of patience, and the sweet rewards of time lavished upon food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.