Delicious Mujaddara with lentils and caramelized onions served in a bowl

Mujaddara

Why make this recipe

Mujaddara is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines lentils and quinoa, making it a great source of plant-based protein. It’s a classic Middle Eastern meal that is simple to make and delicious. The caramelized onions add a rich flavor and sweetness to the dish, while the spices give it a warm aroma. Whether you are looking for a healthy meal or a satisfying side dish, Mujaddara is perfect for any occasion.

How to make Mujaddara

Ingredients :

  • 1 cup lentils
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions :

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and add the sliced onions. Cook until caramelized.
  2. Rinse lentils and quinoa under cold water. Add them to the pot with the caramelized onions.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and quinoa are cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Fluff with a fork and serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

How to serve Mujaddara

Serve Mujaddara warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a side salad or yogurt. The flavors are rich, and it can be a main dish or a side dish for any meal.

How to store Mujaddara

Mujaddara can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to make Mujaddara

  • Make sure to cook the onions slowly to achieve a nice caramelization.
  • Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste.
  • You can add other vegetables, like carrots or spinach, for added nutrition.

Variation

You can substitute quinoa with rice for a different texture. Additionally, adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving enhances the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils, but reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked.

Is Mujaddara vegan?
Yes, Mujaddara is a vegan dish as it uses only plant-based ingredients.

How spicy is Mujaddara?
Mujaddara is not spicy. The flavors come from spices like cumin and coriander, which are warm but not hot. If you want more heat, you can add chili powder or crushed red pepper.

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Mujaddara

Mujaddara is a comforting Middle Eastern dish made with lentils and quinoa, topped with caramelized onions, offering a rich flavor and hearty nutrition.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Vegan
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 cup lentils Rinse before use
  • 1 cup quinoa Rinse before use
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced For caramelization
  • 2 cups vegetable broth Can be low-sodium if preferred
  • 1 teaspoon cumin For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon coriander For flavor
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
  • as needed tablespoons Olive oil For cooking the onions
  • for garnish Chopped parsley Freshly chopped

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and add the sliced onions. Cook until caramelized.
  2. Rinse lentils and quinoa under cold water. Add them to the pot with the caramelized onions.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and quinoa are cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  2. Fluff with a fork and serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

Make sure to cook the onions slowly for proper caramelization. Feel free to adjust spices to taste. Additional vegetables like carrots or spinach can be added for more nutrition. If desired, substitute quinoa with rice for a different texture. A squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavors before serving.

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