Nothing beats the comforting embrace of the Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice (Mujaddara) Recipe—a timeless dish that brings together hearty lentils, fluffy rice, and caramelized onions in a harmony that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. This humble yet flavorful meal holds a special place in Mediterranean cuisine, cherished for its simplicity, wholesome ingredients, and rich textures. Whether you’re looking for a meatless dinner option or a side that will impress, Mujaddara delivers warmth and soul with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice (Mujaddara) Recipe so approachable is the straightforward nature of its ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the earthy lentils and fluffy rice providing substance, to the golden onions adding sweetness and depth, all elevated by the fruity richness of olive oil.
- 2 cups dry rice: Using long-grain rice gives a light, separate texture that balances the lentils beautifully.
- 2 cups dry lentils: Brown or green lentils work best here, offering earthiness and protein.
- 1 large onion (or 2 medium onions), chopped: Slowly caramelized, these bring a delightful sweetness and gorgeous color.
- 1 cup olive oil: The quality here shines through—extra virgin olive oil adds fruity notes and helps caramelize the onions perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste (2-3 teaspoons salt recommended): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
How to Make Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice (Mujaddara) Recipe
Step 1: Cook Lentils and Rice Separately
Start by cooking your lentils and rice according to their package instructions, but keep them separate. This ensures each cooks perfectly—lentils stay tender but not mushy, and rice remains fluffy and distinct, setting the foundation for a beautifully textured Mujaddara.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
While the grains cook, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add the chopped onions. Be patient and stir occasionally as they cook for about 20 minutes until golden brown. This slow caramelization is the heart of the dish, unlocking a rich sweetness that transforms the simple ingredients into something magical.
Step 3: Combine Rice, Lentils, and Onions
Once both the rice and lentils are cooked, transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Pour the luscious caramelized onions along with the olive oil over them. This step is where flavor mingles, so be sure to gently mix everything together so each grain and lentil is coated evenly.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Add salt and pepper to taste. We recommend starting with about 2 to 3 teaspoons of salt—this really uplifts the natural flavors and brings depth. Adjust as needed, since the caramelized onions and oil already provide a bounty of savory notes.
Step 5: Let the Flavors Meld
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit for 20 minutes. This resting time allows the dish’s flavors to marry and the texture to settle, yielding a comforting, cohesive taste experience that makes the Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice (Mujaddara) Recipe so special.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
After the wait, give a final gentle stir and serve your Mujaddara warm. It’s wonderful on its own, but also shines alongside flatbreads or fresh salads. Get ready for a meal that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a cherished family secret.
How to Serve Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice (Mujaddara) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Mujaddara, consider topping it with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley for a splash of color and crunch. A dollop of tangy yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice also adds brightness to the smoky, earthy tones of the dish.
Side Dishes
Mujaddara pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides such as cucumber and tomato salad, a crisp tabbouleh, or creamy hummus. These sides balance the dish’s warm richness and create a well-rounded, nutritious meal that’s perfect any day of the week.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, serve Mujaddara in individual shallow bowls topped with caramelized onion rings and fresh herbs. You can even use it as a hearty base for roasted vegetables or grilled meats, turning this Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice (Mujaddara) Recipe into an elegant centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mujaddara refrigerates beautifully. Store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen as it rests, making it just as delicious the next day—perfect for quick lunches or an easy dinner on busy nights.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, Mujaddara freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat Mujaddara gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it feels dry, warming it slowly to preserve the luscious texture of the rice and lentils as well as the flavor of those divine caramelized onions.
FAQs
Can I use different types of lentils for this recipe?
Absolutely! While brown or green lentils are traditional and hold their shape well, you can experiment with other varieties. Just keep in mind that red lentils tend to break down more, creating a softer texture that changes the character of Mujaddara.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! Mujaddara is naturally vegan and gluten-free as it uses only rice, lentils, onions, olive oil, and basic seasonings. It’s a wonderful option for those with dietary restrictions without needing any modifications.
How do I prevent the onions from burning?
Low and slow is the key. Make sure to cook the onions over medium or medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the pan gets too hot, reduce the heat a bit. Patience during this step is essential for achieving that perfect golden caramelization without bitterness.
Can I make Mujaddara ahead of time for a party?
Yes, Mujaddara is great for making ahead. You can cook it a day before, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat before serving. The flavors often taste even better after resting, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish for entertaining.
What’s the best way to season Mujaddara if I want a bit more flavor?
Besides salt and pepper, you can add warmth and depth by stirring in ground cumin, cinnamon, or allspice when mixing the lentils and rice. Fresh herbs like parsley or mint also add an extra pop of freshness if you like.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice (Mujaddara) Recipe is like inviting a piece of Middle Eastern tradition into your kitchen—simple ingredients transformed into something wonderfully soulful and satisfying. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you will enjoy eating it. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home no matter where you are, so don’t hesitate to give it a whirl and share it with those you care about!
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Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice (Mujaddara) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Lebanese, Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Simple Lebanese Lentils & Rice, also known as Mujaddara, is a hearty and comforting Middle Eastern dish made with fluffy rice, tender lentils, and caramelized onions sautéed in olive oil. This traditional vegan recipe is easy to prepare, nutritious, and full of earthy flavors, making it perfect as a main or side dish.
Ingredients
Grains & Legumes
- 2 cups dry rice
- 2 cups dry lentils
Other Ingredients
- 1 large onion (or 2 medium onions), chopped
- 1 cup olive oil
- 2–3 teaspoons salt, or to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Rice and Lentils: Cook the rice and lentils separately as per their package instructions until both are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside.
- Caramelize Onions: While the rice and lentils are cooking, heat 1 cup of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook them until they turn a rich golden brown for maximum flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, transfer the cooked rice and lentils. Pour the caramelized onions along with the olive oil from the pan over the mixture.
- Season: Add 2-3 teaspoons of salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything thoroughly to evenly distribute flavors.
- Rest and Meld Flavors: Cover the bowl and let the mixture sit for 20 minutes at room temperature. This step allows the flavors to meld and the dish to develop its characteristic taste.
- Serve: Serve the Mujaddara warm on its own or accompanied by warm flatbread. Enjoy this wholesome and flavorful meal!
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, you can add a pinch of cumin or cinnamon when cooking the lentils.
- Using brown or green lentils is traditional, but red lentils can be used for a softer texture.
- Caramelizing onions slowly over medium heat ensures they develop a sweet, rich flavor without burning.
- Mujaddara can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
- If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
