Go Back
–+ servings
Foolproof Mujadara: The Ultimate Lentil and Rice Comfort Food
Print Recipe

Foolproof Mujadara: The Ultimate Lentil and Rice Comfort Food

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
serves: 8

Ingredients:

For the mujadara:

  • 1 cup green lentils, rinsed well and soaked in plenty of fresh water for 1 hour
  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed well and soaked in plenty of water for 30 minutes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups water

For the crispy onions:

  • 2 large onions (or more!)
  • 2 –3 tablespoons olive oil
  • A generous pinch of salt

Instructions:

  • See notes below for tips on timing the lentil and rice soaking.
  • Start frying the crispy onions at the same time you begin cooking the mujadara. Peel the onions, slice them in half lengthwise, and cut into thin half-moons (about 1/8 inch thick / 2–3 mm thick). Heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan, add the sliced onions, season with a generous pinch of salt, and fry on low heat, stirring occasionally, until beautifully golden.
  • In a wide pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add one finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent.
  • Add the soaked lentils (drained) along with the cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour in 3 cups of water, stir, cover, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.
  • After 20 minutes, add the soaked rice (drained). Give it a single stir, cover again, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for another 20 minutes.
  • Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 5–10 more minutes.
  • Serve topped with lots of crispy onions—and chopped parsley if desired.

Notes:

  • One hour before you start cooking, rinse the lentils thoroughly and soak them in plenty of water for 1 hour.
  • Just before cooking (and once the lentils are soaked), rinse the rice and soak it in plenty of water for 30 minutes. Then begin cooking.
  • You can also use jasmine or regular white rice if needed.