Mujaddara

Mujaddara is one of the most beloved traditional dishes in Middle Eastern cuisine. Made with lentils, rice (or bulgur), and caramelized onions, this wholesome dish is both hearty and affordable. Its roots can be traced back centuries, and today it remains a staple in households across Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine.

Simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, Mujaddara is often served as a vegetarian main dish or a side, paired with fresh salads or tangy yogurt. The sweetness of caramelized onions perfectly balances the earthy lentils and fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.

 Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils (green or brown)
  

• 1 cup rice (or bulgur for variation)
  

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  

• 2–3 tbsp olive oil
  

• 1 tsp ground cumin
  

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  

• Salt and black pepper, to taste
  

• 4 cups water (or vegetable broth for richer flavor)
  

 Directions

1. Cook the lentils: Rinse thoroughly, then simmer them in a pot with water until tender but not mushy (about 20 minutes)
   

2. Cook the rice/bulgur: In a separate pot, follow package directions until cooked through.
   

3. Caramelize the onions: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook sliced onions until golden brown and crispy, around 15–20 minutes.
   

4. Combine: Drain any excess water from lentils and mix them with cooked rice. Add garlic, cumin, cinnamon (optional), salt, and pepper.
   

5. Serve: Top the lentil-rice mixture with caramelized onions. Serve warm with yogurt, cucumber salad, or fresh herbs.
   

 Serving Suggestions

• With yogurt: A dollop of plain or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang.
  

• With salad: Pairs perfectly with tabbouleh, fattoush, or a simple cucumber-tomato salad.
  

• As a side: Complement grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
  

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein-rich: Lentils provide plant-based protein, making Mujaddara a great vegetarian meal.
  

• Fiber-packed: Keeps you full for longer and supports digestion.
  

• Heart-healthy: Olive oil and lentils contribute to a nutrient-dense, balanced dish.
  

Variations to Try

• Bulgur Mujaddara: Replace rice with bulgur for a nuttier flavor.
  

• Spiced version: Add paprika, coriander, or chili flakes for extra heat.
  

 Conclusion

Mujaddara is more than just food — it’s a comforting symbol of tradition and togetherness in Middle Eastern culture. Affordable, filling, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Whether you enjoy it as a vegetarian main course or a side dish, this timeless recipe proves that the simplest ingredients often make the most delicious meals.

So next time you’re craving a warm, wholesome dish, try making Mujaddara at home — your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of caramelized onions and spices!