Quick Weeknights · Lebanese
Mujadara
A classic preparation of lentils and rice finished with a generous topping of deeply caramelized onions.
Why This Works
The deep, sweet flavor of deeply caramelized onions provides a savory richness that makes the simple lentils and rice feel like a main event.
The Upgrade
Add a dollop of thick Greek yogurt on the side to provide a creamy, tangy contrast.
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueEnsure the onions are sliced uniformly to cook evenly; the darker the onion (without burning), the deeper the flavor of the final dish.
Ingredients
Total time including resting: 45 min
Directions
Boil lentils in 3 cups of water until just tender, roughly 15 minutes.
15 minWhile lentils cook, caramelize sliced onions in oil over medium heat until dark mahogany.
20 minAdd rinsed rice to the pot with the lentils (and cooking water), cumin, and salt.
2 minCover tightly and simmer on low heat until water is absorbed and grains are tender.
15 minUse a fork to fluff the rice and lentil mixture gently to avoid mashing.
1 minFold half the caramelized onions into the mixture for depth of flavor.
1 minServe in a shallow bowl, piled high with the remaining crispy onions on top.
1 minWine Pairing
Grenache
Red Wine
The BottleDomaine du Vieux Télégraphe Châteauneuf-du-Pape
The sweetness of the deeply caramelized onions calls for a wine with generous fruit and a spicy finish. A Grenache-based red bridges the gap between the savory lentils and the sugary onion profile.
Nutrition per Serving
390
calories
12g
protein
65g
carbs
9g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Side Dish
Cucumber Yogurt Salad
Diced cucumbers in thick yogurt provide a cooling, creamy counterpoint to the lentils.
Ingredients
Directions
Place the diced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and allow to drain for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Whisk the yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a chilled mixing bowl until perfectly smooth.
Pat the cucumbers dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Fold the cucumbers into the yogurt mixture until evenly coated.
Transfer to a chilled serving dish.
Garnish with fresh mint and a drizzle of olive oil before service.
Side Dish
Garlic Wilted Spinach
Quickly sautéed spinach with a squeeze of lemon adds vital greens to this fiber-rich meal.
Ingredients
Directions
Thoroughly wash and spin dry the spinach to ensure even wilting.
Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add sliced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant and golden; do not brown.
Add spinach in batches, tossing constantly with tongs to coat in the garlic oil.
Cook until just wilted, approximately 2 minutes, then season immediately with salt.
Remove from heat, finish with a bright squeeze of lemon juice, and serve immediately.
Member Reviews
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My new go-to. Even my picky kids cleaned their plates.