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Mujadara: Lentils and Rice with Crispy Onions

Ingredients

  • 1 cup small brown lentils, sorted and rinsed
  • 4 cups water, divided (or 2 cups stock)
  • cup canola oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, diced (4 cups)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt, more to taste
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, soaked in water for 10-15 minutes and then drained
  • black pepper
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Parsley or parsley flakes for garnish
  • For the fried crispy onion garnish (optional)
  • Canola oil for frying
  • 1 large yellow onion cut in very thin rings

Instructions

  1. Place the lentils in a small saucepan with 2 cups of the water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, and then reduce the heat and simmer, covered until the lentils are par-boiled (10-12 minutes). Remove from the heat, drain the lentils and set them aside.
  2. In a large saute pan with a lid, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook until the onions are dark golden brown, darker than typical caramelized onions (about 40 minutes), Sprinkle the onions with a teaspoon of salt as they cook.
  3. Carefully pour the remaining 2 cups of water, bring the water to a boil over high heat, and then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir the rice and par-cooked lentils into the onion mixture. Cover and bring back to a boil. Stir in a healthy pinch of salt and the black pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice and lentils are both cooked through (about 20 minutes). Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. For the fried onions garnish (optional), heat the oil over medium-high heat (to 375 degrees F) in a small saucepan. When a small piece of onion bubbles vigorously, the oil is ready. Fry the onions in batches until they are golden brown. Transfer the onions to a paper towel-lined plate or try, and then arrange them on top of the Mjuadara.
  5. Serve the Mujadara rice and lentils hot, warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with a side of crisp salad such as fattoush.

Serves: 4-6

Picture:

Source: The Mediterranean Dish

Recipe category: Sides