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Authentic Lebanese Mujadara Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 89 reviews

Authentic Lebanese Mujadara is a flavorful and comforting dish made with brown lentils, long-grain rice, and caramelized onions. This traditional Middle Eastern recipe features a delightful blend of spices including cumin and cinnamon, creating a hearty yet simple vegetarian meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. Served with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, Mujadara is both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Lentils and Rice

  • 1 cup brown lentils
  • 1 cup long-grain rice (Basmati or Jasmine)

Onions and Oil

  • 2 large onions, sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Spices and Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional but recommended)
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Liquids and Garnish

  • 4 cups water or vegetable broth
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the sliced onions. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and are caramelized, then reserve half for topping.
  2. Cook the Lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown lentils with 4 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
  3. Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the rinsed long-grain rice, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon into the cooked lentils. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Fluff the rice and lentils mixture with a fork. Mix in the reserved caramelized onions and drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the dish to enhance flavor.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the Mujadara to a serving dish, top with the remaining caramelized onions, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve alongside lemon wedges for squeezing.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water.
  • Cooking times may vary depending on lentil and rice types; adjust liquid as needed.
  • This dish is naturally vegetarian and vegan friendly.
  • To make caramelized onions faster, add a pinch of sugar while cooking the onions.
  • Lemon wedges add a bright, acidic contrast that complements the earthiness of lentils.

Keywords: Lebanese Mujadara, Mujadara recipe, lentils and rice, caramelized onions, vegetarian Middle Eastern dish

Find it online: https://tastybella.com/authentic-lebanese-mujadara-recipe/