Lentil and Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onions (Mujadara)
This Lentil and Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onions, also known as Mujadara, is a comforting and nutritious Middle Eastern dish. It combines tender lentils, fragrant rice, and sweet caramelized onions for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, this dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free. It’s a budget-friendly meal that pairs well with yogurt, salad, or pickles.
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Pilaf
1 cup brown or green lentils
1 cup basmati or long-grain rice
3 cups water or vegetable broth
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Caramelized Onions
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to speed up caramelization)
For Garnish (Optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Plain yogurt (for serving, if not vegan)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
1. Rinse lentils under cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, add lentils and 2 cups water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes (lentils should be slightly firm).
4. Drain any excess water and set aside.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
5. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat.
6. Add sliced onions and salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown.
7. (Optional) Add sugar to enhance the caramelization.
8. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
9. In the same saucepan used for lentils, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
10. Add cumin and coriander, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
11. Add rice and stir to coat in spices.
12. Pour in 1 cup water, then add partially cooked lentils, salt, and black pepper.
13. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes.
14. Turn off heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
15. Gently mix half of the caramelized onions into the pilaf.
16. Transfer to a serving dish and top with the remaining onions.
17. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges and yogurt.
Notes & Tips
Use Brown or Green Lentils: Avoid red lentils, as they become too mushy.
Make it Extra Flavorful: Use vegetable broth instead of water.
Caramelizing the Onions Takes Time: Don’t rush this step—it’s key for deep flavor.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned lentils?
Yes! Rinse and drain 1 1/2 cups canned lentils and add them when cooking the rice.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with yogurt, cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or grilled vegetables.
3. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
4. Can I freeze Mujadara?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~300 kcal
Protein: 10g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 300mg
This Lentil and Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onions is a comforting, hearty, and healthy dish—perfect for any meal. Enjoy!