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Mujadara Lebanese Dish
Mujadara is a classic Lebanese dish that has stood the test of time, cherished for both its simplicity and depth of flavour. At its core, Mujadara is a comforting combination of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions. Its name derives from the Arabic word for “pockmarked,” which is a reference to the appearance of the lentils when cooked. This dish is both hearty and nutritious, making it a staple in many Lebanese households.
Preparation
The preparation begins with cooking brown or green lentils until they are tender but still intact. In parallel, rice is prepared, often mixed with the lentils to create a balanced, filling base. The key to Mujadara’s rich flavour is the caramelized onions. Onions are sliced thinly and slowly sautéed in olive oil until they turn a deep, golden brown. This process not only
sweetens the onions but also adds a significant depth of flavour to the dish.
Once the onions are caramelized, they are mixed with the lentils and rice. Some variations include adding spices such as cumin, coriander, or allspice to enhance the dish’s flavour profile. A touch of salt and pepper is usually sufficient to bring out the natural flavours of the ingredients.
Serve with a Side of Yoghurt or Salad
Mujadara is often served with a side of plain yoghurt or a fresh salad, such as a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, to balance the dish’s richness. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for any meal.
This dish is not just a favourite in Lebanon; it has also gained popularity in various Middle Eastern cuisines and beyond. It represents the heart of Lebanese home cooking: simple ingredients prepared with care to create something truly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a tasty, healthy option, Mujadara is a timeless choice that continues to delight people around the world.
Mujadara Lebanese Dish recipe
Certainly! Here’s a straightforward recipe for Mujadara, a delicious Lebanese dish of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
For the Mujadara:
1 cup brown or green lentils
1/2 cup long-grain rice
4 cups water or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Caramelized Onions:
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
To Serve:
Plain yoghurt or a side salad (cucumber, tomato, and parsley are traditional)
Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Lentils:
1. Rinse the lentils under cold water.
2. In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the lentils and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Rice:
In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Caramelize the Onions:
1. While the lentils and rice are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20-30 minutes, or until the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized. For a deeper caramelization, you can add a pinch of sugar midway through the process.
Combine Ingredients:
1. Add the cooked lentils and rice to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.
2. Season with ground cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper to taste.
Serve:
1. Transfer the Mujadara to a serving dish. Garnish with additional caramelized onions on top if desired.
2. Serve warm with a side of plain yoghurt, fresh salad, or lemon wedges for extra flavour.
Enjoy your Mujadara as a satisfying main dish or a hearty side!
