How to Make Mujadarra (Lentils with Rice) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Mujadarra is a classic Middle Eastern dish that is both simple and incredibly flavorful. This timeless recipe is made with lentils, rice, and caramelized onions, and it's a staple in many households throughout the region. The combination of earthy lentils, fluffy rice, and sweet, deeply caramelized onions is absolutely irresistible and makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Originating from the Levant region, mujadarra is a dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a popula...

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Ingredients

  • 14 ounces dry brown lentils
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed, or more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons water, or more as needed
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (Optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon yellow curry powder (Optional)
  • 4 cups cooked brown rice, or as needed

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 45 mins
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 8 servings

  • Fill a large pot with lightly salted water; add lentils and bring to a rolling boil. Cook until slightly tender, about 10 minutes. Add grated carrots; cook until slightly softened, about 10 minutes. Drain lentils and carrots.
  • Heat olive oil in the same pot over medium heat; add onions and garlic. Cook and stir until onions wilt and become transparent, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in lentils and carrots and reduce heat to medium-low. Add enough water to the pot to keep the lentil mixture from drying out.
  • Sprinkle cumin, cayenne, curry powder, salt, and pepper over lentils; stir until heated through and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Serve over rice.
  • Nutrition

    350 cal.

    • Total Fat: 7g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Sodium: 23mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 57g
    • Dietary Fiber: 18g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 16g
    • Vitamin C: 6mg
    • Calcium: 56mg
    • Iron: 5mg
    • Potassium: 628mg