Mujadara Recipe - Rice with Lentils and Caramelised Onions - Middle Eastern Mujaddara

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Avocado oil provides healthy fats while sunflower oil is more affordable.

long-grain rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: short-grain rice

Quinoa adds protein and fiber, while short-grain rice is often less expensive.

cumin

🥗Healthier: coriander

💰Cheaper: paprika

Coriander offers a similar flavor profile, while paprika is often cheaper.

onions

🥗Healthier: leeks

💰Cheaper: shallots

Leeks provide a milder flavor, while shallots are typically less expensive.

Heat half cup olive oil in a pan.

Fry two medium-sized finely sliced onions until deep golden brown.

Partially boil one cup brown lentils for ten minutes, then strain and save the lentil water.

Add one third of the fried onions to the same pan.

Add one cinnamon stick, one teaspoon coriander powder, one teaspoon cumin powder, half teaspoon chili powder, salt to taste, half teaspoon turmeric powder, and quarter teaspoon black pepper.

Add one and a half cups of soaked rice and two cups of the saved lentil water plus two cups of boiled water (total four cups of liquid).

Add one tablespoon vinegar and juice of a quarter lemon.

Bring to a boil, then cover and cook on low flame until liquid has been absorbed.

Top with the remaining fried onions, pine nuts, and fresh coriander.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary