Mujadara
Mujadara is a traditional Lebanese dish of lentils and rice crowned with deeply caramelized onions, a hearty meal built from simple pantry ingredients.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Rinse the brown lentils under cold water and drain them well.
- 2
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes. Remove half of the onions and set them aside for topping later.
- 3
Add the rinsed lentils to the pot with the remaining caramelized onions, then pour in 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- 4
Stir in the long-grain rice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and cook on low heat for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
- 5
Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the mixture with a fork. Serve the moujadara warm, topped with the reserved caramelized onions.
Cook notes
Tips
Ensure lentils are soaked for about 30 minutes beforehand for quicker cooking.
Caramelize the onions slowly to enhance their flavor and sweetness.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Substitutions
- You can replace long-grain rice with basmati rice for a different flavor.
- Olive oil can be swapped with vegetable oil if preferred.
What to Serve With
- A simple cucumber and tomato salad.
- Yogurt on the side for a cool contrast.
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the onions can lead to burnt flavors, so keep an eye on them.
- Not rinsing the lentils can result in a gritty texture.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can substitute brown lentils with green lentils, but cooking times may vary.
How long can I store Moujadara?
Moujadara can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Is Moujadara a vegan dish?
Yes, Moujadara is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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