Mujadara is an authentic and beloved dish across the Middle East, with deep roots in traditional Egyptian, Lebanese, Palestinian, and Syrian cuisine. Celebrated for its humble ingredients and bold flavors, this quick, one-pot vegan meal is both healthy and packed with protein and fiber. Traditionally, it brings together lentils, rice, and crispy onions to create a wholesome, filling dish that’s easy to prepare, yet highly satisfying.
The magic of mujadara lies in its simplicity. The hearty lentils and fluffy rice are infused with cumin, salt, and pepper, while the crunchy, caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness. With layers of flavor and texture, it’s one of the best traditional Middle Eastern dishes. This dish, which can be made in under an hour, is not only healthy and easy but also a testament to the vibrant, authentic flavors of the region.
Ingredients
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 250 ml extra virgin olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 275 g green lentils
- 200 g basmati rice (or medium-grain rice)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 700 ml water
Optional Toppings:
- Arabic salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, lemon, olive oil)
- Yogurt-cucumber dip (salata zabed)
- Spicy Gazan salad (Salata Gaz)
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the oil over high heat and add the sliced onions. Stir every 10-15 seconds, frying until they turn a golden brown and crisp, around 15-20 minutes. Remove onions and let them cool on a wire rack. Reserve the onion-flavored oil.
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and add them to the same pot along with the cumin. Pour in 700 ml water and bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-high heat and cook for 8 minutes.
- Meanwhile, wash the rice several times to remove excess starch. Once the lentils are halfway cooked, add the rice, a couple of handfuls of crispy onions, 2 tsp of the onion-infused oil, salt, and pepper. Stir briefly.
- Adjust the water level so it’s just above the rice and lentils. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook on high heat for 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low and steam for 20 minutes.
- Fluff the mujadara with a fork and top generously with the remaining crispy onions.
Did You Know?
Mujadara is one of the oldest recorded dishes in the Middle East, dating back over 1,000 years! Featured in ancient Arab cookbooks, it’s often considered a “poor man’s meal” but loved for its rich, satisfying flavors. This traditional Middle Eastern dish is also commonly enjoyed during Lent and other fasting periods. Plus, its warm, earthy tones, especially the yellow tint from caramelized onions and spices, make it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
