Discover the rich, earthy flavors of the Middle East with our Ziyad Mujadara Rice and Lentil Pilaf! This delightful dish combines the wholesome goodness of lentils and rice, elevated by the sweet, caramelized onions and aromatic cumin. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for your next gathering, Mujadara is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With just 40 minutes from prep to table, you can indulge in this hearty meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your cooking game!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 cup rice
- 2 onions, sliced
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold running water. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- While the lentils are cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Set the rinsed rice aside.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the cumin to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Add the rinsed rice to the skillet with the onions and cumin, stirring to coat the rice in the oil and mix with the onions. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
- Next, add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the rice. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Pour in 4 cups of water and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to ensure everything is well combined.
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
- After the cooking time is complete, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and become fluffy.
- Fluff the Mujadara with a fork before serving. You can garnish it with additional caramelized onions on top if desired. Serve warm as a hearty main dish or a side dish.
Tips
- Rinse the Lentils and Rice: Always rinse your lentils and rice thoroughly before cooking. This step removes excess starch from the rice and any impurities from the lentils, ensuring a cleaner and fluffier final dish.
- Caramelize the Onions: Take your time when caramelizing the onions. Allow them to cook slowly over medium heat until they turn golden brown. This process enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to your Mujadara.
- Toast the Rice: After adding the rice to the skillet, toast it for a few minutes before adding the water. This step adds a nutty flavor to the rice and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook. A little extra salt and pepper can make a big difference in bringing out the flavors of the lentils and rice.
- Let it Steam: After cooking, let the Mujadara sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and become perfectly fluffy.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish your Mujadara with additional caramelized onions or fresh herbs before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 194kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 6g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
