Mujaddara Recipe (Traditional Middle Eastern Rice)
Mujaddara, a delightful and hearty dish that combines rice and lentils, topped with crispy fried onions, is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine and is cherished for its simplicity and flavor. This recipe not only highlights the earthy tones of the masoor dal (red lentils) but also brings out the aromatic essence of cumin and coriander, making it a perfect vegetarian dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it alongside fresh salads or grilled vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice (long grain) | 1 cup |
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 1 cup |
| Red onions (thinly sliced) | 3 (medium-sized) |
| Bay leaf (tej patta) | 1 |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (crushed) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pine nuts or raisins (for garnish) | Optional |
| Lemon juice (from one large lemon) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 400 |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 10 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|
| Soaking Lentils | 180 |
| Cooking | 45 |
| Total Time | 225 |
Instructions
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Soak the Lentils: Begin the process by washing the masoor dal thoroughly under running water. After rinsing, soak the lentils in water for about 3 to 4 hours. This step is crucial as it not only softens the lentils but also enhances their texture and flavor.
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Cook the Lentils: After soaking, drain the lentils and give them another rinse. Transfer the rinsed lentils into a saucepan, cover them with adequate water, and place them over medium heat. Cook the lentils until they are tender yet firm (al dente), which should take around 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, set them aside.
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Prepare the Onions: While the lentils are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large, flat-bottomed skillet over medium to low heat. Add the sliced red onions to the skillet and sauté them gently. Stir occasionally to ensure they fry evenly until they are golden brown and crispy. This process can take about 20-25 minutes, so patience is key. Once they are nicely caramelized, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the skillet and drain on absorbent paper. Set them aside for later.
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Combine Ingredients: Retain about one tablespoon of the olive oil in the skillet (discard the excess oil) and add the cooked lentils, bay leaf, cumin seeds, coriander powder, crushed black peppercorns, and salt. Toss these ingredients together until well combined.
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Add Rice: Next, introduce the long-grain rice into the mixture and stir gently to incorporate. Pour in approximately 2 to 2½ cups of water or vegetable stock. If you have any leftover liquid from cooking the lentils, feel free to use that as well. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged.
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Cook the Mujaddara: Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let the mixture simmer on low heat. Cook until the rice absorbs the liquid and is just tender, about 20-25 minutes. Be careful not to overcook; the grains should remain separate and not mushy.
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Serve and Garnish: Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Fluff the Mujaddara gently with a fork, then transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with the reserved crispy fried onions and, if desired, sprinkle pine nuts or raisins on top for added texture and sweetness. Finally, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving.
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Pairing Suggestions: Mujaddara is best enjoyed warm, complemented by refreshing sides such as Fattoush with Za’atar, Sumac, and Pomegranate Molasses or creamy spiced yogurt. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Grilled Aubergines with Tzatziki.
Indulging in Mujaddara not only satisfies your palate but also nourishes your body with its wholesome ingredients. Enjoy this flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine, making your dinner table a delightful gathering of flavors and textures.
