Mujadara is the definition of quiet nourishment. Lentils, rice, onions, oil, and time that’s all it takes. No extras. No shortcuts. Just simple ingredients transformed through patience and care. Across the Middle East, mujadara has long been known as food for everyone: affordable, filling, and deeply satisfying.
What makes mujadara special isn’t complexity it’s balance. Earthy lentils meet tender rice, while deeply caramelized onions bring sweetness and richness that feel almost indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that teaches an important lesson: when vegetables and grains are treated with respect, they don’t need embellishment.
In the Let’s Veg lifestyle, mujadara represents resilience and wisdom. It’s food that stretches, feeds many, and improves with time. It’s just as at home on a simple weekday table as it is served to guests. And it reminds us that eating well doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated sometimes it’s just lentils, rice, onions, and a little patience.
Mujadara (Lentils & Rice with Caramelized Onions)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 1. Cook the Lentils
- Place lentils in a pot with water or broth.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer 15-18 minutes, until just tender (not mushy).
- Drain and set aside.
- 2. Caramelize the Onions
- Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium-low heat.
- Add onions and salt.
- Cook slowly, stirring often, 20-25 minutes, until deep golden brown and sweet.
- Remove half the onions and set aside for topping.
- 3. Build the Mujadara
- Add cumin and cinnamon (if using) to the remaining onions in the pan.
- Stir in rice and cooked lentils, coating them in the oil and spices.
- 4. Simmer
- Add 2 cups water or broth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15-18 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- 5. Rest & Serve
- Turn off heat and let rest 5-10 minutes.
- Fluff gently and top generously with reserved caramelized onions.