Mujadara is a classic Middle Eastern recipe that combines lentils and rice with caramelized onions and spices. Whenever I cook grains, I always make too much and have to pack up leftovers. This is a great way to use up excess food and to prepare a quick side to use for meal prep throughout the week. All of the ingredients for this recipe are cheap pantry staples that would generally be on hand in a vegan kitchen.
Cumin and lentils both give off a hearty, meaty flavor. When you cook the two together, you create a filling side that is brought to life with fresh parsley and lemon juice. I served this with a simple side of tomatoes and greens. You could also serve it alongside some grape leaves or falafel.
Mujadara (Middle Eastern Lentils & Rice with Caramelized Onions)
Recipe Type:
Allergen Free Hearty Entrees
YIELDS
3-4 servings
PREP TIME
COOK TIME
TOTAL TIME
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2/3 cup cooked rice
- 2/3 cup cooked green lentils
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- salt & pepper to taste
Directions
1. Add 2 tbsp olive oil to a small pot and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, until onions begin to caramelize. Set aside.
2. Add the remaining olive oil to a medium-sized pot over low heat. Add the rice, lentils, garlic, and cumin and stir well. Cook for about two minutes, until warmed.
3. Remove from heat and stir in parsley and lemon juice.
4. Top with caramelized onions.
Also by Lauren: Red Pepper Walnut Dip (Muhammara)
Strawberry Kale Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
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Photo: Lauren Sacerdote
