Name: Lebanese Mujadara: Simple, Earthy Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils; 1 cup rice; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 4 cups water; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

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Introduction to Lebanese Mujadara

Let me take you on a little culinary journey to the heart of the Middle East with Lebanese Mujadara. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those of us juggling busy schedules, whether you’re a mom, a professional, or both. It’s a simple, earthy dish that brings comfort with every bite. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also deeply satisfying. That’s the magic of Lebanese Mujadara.

What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients—lentils, rice, and caramelized onions—you can create a meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a cozy kitchen in Lebanon, where the air is filled with the sweet aroma of onions slowly caramelizing. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in Middle Eastern comfort food.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Moroccan Lentil Soup
Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Lentil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Moroccan Lentil Soup
Tips for Perfect Results
Essential Equipment Needed
Delicious Variations of Moroccan Lentil Soup
Serving Suggestions
FAQs About Moroccan Lentil Soup
Final Thoughts on Moroccan Lentil Soup

Why You’ll Love This Lebanese Mujadara

Now, let’s talk about why this Lebanese Mujadara will become your new favorite go-to meal. First off, it’s a breeze to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have dinner on the table in no time. And let’s not forget about the cleanup—it’s practically nonexistent, which is a win in my book!

But the real beauty of this dish lies in its family-friendly flavors. The combination of lentils and rice creates a wholesome, hearty base, while the caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness that even the pickiest eaters will love. It’s a meal that brings everyone together, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup lentils
1 cup rice
2 large onions, thinly sliced
4 cups water
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Let’s break down these ingredients a bit. Lentils are the star of the show, providing a good source of protein and fiber. They’re like little powerhouses of nutrition! The rice adds a comforting, starchy element that pairs perfectly with the lentils. And those onions? They’re the secret ingredient that takes this dish to the next level. When caramelized, they become sweet and rich, adding depth and complexity to the Mujadara.

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider using vegetable broth instead of water for an extra layer of flavor. And don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with printable measurements at the end of this article, so you can keep this recipe handy for whenever the craving strikes.

How to Make Lebanese Mujadara

Step 1 – Prep Ingredients

First things first, let’s get our ingredients ready. Rinse the lentils and rice under cold water to remove any excess starch and debris. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Next, grab a sharp knife and slice those onions as thinly as possible. The thinner the slices, the quicker they’ll caramelize.

Step 2 – Begin Cooking

Now, it’s time to get cooking! Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot, then add the lentils. Let them cook for about 15 minutes until they’re partially done. While the lentils are doing their thing, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and let them cook slowly until they’re golden brown and caramelized. This process might take a little patience, but the result is well worth it.

Step 3 – Combine Ingredients

Once the lentils are partially cooked, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the rice to the pot with the lentils, and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice and lentils are tender and the water is absorbed.

Step 4 – Finish and Serve

Finally, stir in the caramelized onions, reserving some for garnish. This is where the magic happens—the sweetness of the onions melds with the earthy lentils and rice, creating a symphony of flavors. Serve the Mujadara warm, topped with the reserved caramelized onions for a touch of elegance.

Tips for Perfect Results

For a richer flavor, swap out the water for vegetable broth. It adds a savory depth that complements the dish beautifully.
When caramelizing onions, patience is key. Cook them slowly over medium heat to bring out their natural sweetness.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s just as delicious reheated!

Essential Equipment Needed

Large pot
Frying pan
Sharp knife
Cutting board

Delicious Variations of Lebanese Mujadara

Add a pinch of cumin or coriander for a spiced version that packs a punch.
Swap out the rice for quinoa to make it gluten-free and add a nutty flavor.
Incorporate roasted vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Mujadara with a side of creamy yogurt for a delightful contrast.
Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal that’s both light and satisfying.
Enjoy it with warm pita bread to soak up all those delicious flavors.

FAQs About Lebanese Mujadara

Can I make Lebanese Mujadara ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

What type of lentils should I use? Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe. They hold their shape well and have a lovely, earthy flavor.

Is Lebanese Mujadara suitable for a vegan diet? Yes, it is! This dish is naturally vegan and packed with plant-based protein, making it a great option for everyone.

Final Thoughts on Lebanese Mujadara

Lebanese Mujadara is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting embrace of flavors that brings a taste of the Middle East to your kitchen. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for those busy days when you need something quick yet satisfying. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the rich, earthy flavors for yourself. It’s a practical choice for any lifestyle, offering a delightful escape into the world of Middle Eastern comfort food.

Lebanese Mujadara: Simple, Earthy Comfort Food Recipe

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4.1 from 30 reviews

Author: buenos aires run way
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Lebanese Mujadara is a simple, earthy, and filling dish that combines lentils, rice, and caramelized onions to create a comforting Middle Eastern meal.

Ingredients

1 cup lentils
1 cup rice
2 large onions, thinly sliced
4 cups water
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

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Instructions

Rinse the lentils and rice separately under cold water.
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the lentils and cook for about 15 minutes until they are partially cooked.
While the lentils are cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are caramelized and golden brown.
Once the lentils are partially cooked, add the rice to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice and lentils are tender and the water is absorbed.
Stir in the caramelized onions, reserving some for garnish.
Serve the Mujadara warm, topped with the reserved caramelized onions.