Lebanese Mjadra – Lentil & Rice Lettuce Cups

May 23, 2023May 23, 20230 0

Lebanese Mjadra - Lentil & Rice Lettuce Cups

by The Chefin Main

Prep

60 min

Cook

40 min

Ready In

100 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

450

Sugar

Fat

25g

Lebanese Mjadra is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that consists of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions. It is served as a side dish or as a main course with lettuce cups like we did today. The origin of the dish dates back to the Crusades when European visitors brought rice to the Middle East, and it quickly became one of the staple ingredients in local cuisine. It is a perfect dinner dish that will take a little bit of your time preparing, but it is definitely worth it.

Instructions

1.	Rinse the lentils in cold water and leave to drain while you cook the onions.
2.	Heat 1/2 cup of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat until hot.
3.	Fry the onions in the oil until browned and caramelly, stirring frequently for about 15 minutes.
4.	Add the lentils to the onions and stir gently to combine.
5.	Add the rice and a pinch of salt to the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes to toast the rice.
6.	Stir in 1 cup of stock and bring to a boil.
7.	Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
8.	Carefully remove individual lettuce cups from the head of iceberg lettuce.
9.	Add the Lebanese Mjadra mixture to the lettuce cups. Serve with lemon wedges.

PROS

This is a nutritious dish packed full of protein and fiber from the lentils.
The rice provides a good source of carbohydrates.

This dish is vegetarian-friendly and can be made vegan with simple substitutions such as vegetable stock.

CONS

This dish requires a bit of preparation time before cooking due to soaking the lentils beforehand.

It is not the most visually appealing dish to serve.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lebanese Mjadra is packed with plant-based protein and fiber from the lentils, which can help lower cholesterol levels and improve digestion.
It contains a good source of carbohydrates from the rice, which can provide energy for the body.
Lettuce cups are a healthy, low-calorie alternative to bread or wraps and can help increase vegetable intake.

	1 cup red lentils or 1 cup brown lentils
	1/2 cup olive oil
	2 medium onions , finely sliced
	1 cup long grain rice
	1 cup vegetable stock or 1 cup chicken stock
	iceburg lettuce cup
	2 lemons , cut into wedges