Ingredients

14 ounces dry brown lentils
2 carrots , grated
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 onions , thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic , crushed , or more to taste
2 tablespoons water , or more as needed
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper ( optional )
1/4 teaspoon yellow curry powder ( optional )
4 cups cooked brown rice , or as needed
Mujadarra is a classic Lebanese dish that dates back thousands of years. It is a simple yet hearty dish consisting of lentils and rice cooked with caramelized onions and spices. It is often served as a main dish or side dish and is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. The dish has a long history of making use of affordable, readily available ingredients that are packed with nutrients. The combination of lentils and rice creates a complete protein, making Mujadarra an excellent choice for vegetarian and vegan diets. It is also a great dish for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated easily.

Instructions

1.Rinse the lentils thoroughly and soak in water for 30 minutes.
2.Drain the lentils and place them in a large pot with 5 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer for 20-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
3.While the lentils are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
4.Add sliced onions to the pan and cook for 10-15 minutes, until golden brown and caramelized. Add a splash of water to the pan if the onions start to stick.
5.Add grated carrots to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes.
6.Add garlic, cumin, cayenne pepper, and curry powder to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
7.Add the cooked lentils and any remaining water to the pan with the onion mixture. Stir to combine and cook for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
8.Serve hot on a bed of brown rice.

PROS

Mujadarra is a flavorful and filling vegetarian dish that is high in fiber and protein from the lentils and brown rice.

It is easy to make and can be served as a main dish or side dish.

The spices used in this recipe add depth of flavor and anti-inflammatory properties to the dish.

CONS

This dish is high in carbohydrates, so it should be eaten in moderation if you are watching your carb intake or have diabetes.

It is also high in sodium, so if you are on a low-sodium diet, you can reduce the amount of salt added to the recipe.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Mujadarra is a nutritious dish that is rich in fiber, protein, iron, and magnesium.
The lentils and brown rice provide sustained energy and help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a great option for people with diabetes.
The spices used in this recipe, such as cumin and curry, have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion.

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