Ingredients
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150g
Green lentils
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3
Onions
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2 cloves
Garlic
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200g
Plain yogurt
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150g
Basmati rice
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4 bunches
flat-leaf parsley
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1 teaspoon
Cumin
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1 teaspoon
Cinnamon
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1 teaspoon
Turmeric
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4 tablespoons
Olive oil
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3 pinches
Salt
Directions
Mujadara (Moujadara): The Unmissable Lebanese Lentil Rice Dish
Mujadara—also spelled Moujadara or Mujaddara—is one of the most iconic vegetarian dishes in Lebanese cuisine. Made primarily with rice, lentils, and crispy fried onions, this traditional recipe, reminiscent of the Persian Adas Polo, is economical, wholesome, and bursting with flavor. It is often served with a fresh salad or creamy yogurt sauce, making it a balanced, comforting, and satisfying meal.
Lebanese Lentil Rice: An Ancient Recipe
Prepared for generations in Lebanese and Middle Eastern homes, Mujadara wins hearts with its simplicity and depth of flavor. Lentils are simmered with rice (or sometimes bulgur) and then combined with caramelized onions fried in olive oil. This sweet, golden onion topping gives the dish its signature richness.
There are several variations of Mujadara. The most popular version, made with rice, is called Moujadara Safra (“yellow”), while Mujadara Hamra (“red”) is made without rice—only lentils and onions, slow-cooked until they resemble a deep brown purée. Originating from southern Lebanon, this version is equally delicious, with a more intense flavor profile.
Why Make Mujadara at Home?
Lebanese Mujadara is the perfect recipe for anyone looking to:
- Enjoy a vegetarian or vegan meal without sacrificing flavor
- Discover an authentic Lebanese specialty
- Cook a simple dish with just a few pantry staples
- Benefit from a healthy, fiber-rich, plant-based protein source
In addition to being budget-friendly, Mujadara is excellent for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. It stores well, reheats beautifully, and tastes even better the next day.
Whether you call it Mujadara, Moujadara, or Lebanese Lentil Rice, this humble yet flavorful dish deserves a spot in your kitchen repertoire.
Steps
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1
Done
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Preparation of fried onionsPeel your onions and slice them very finely. Heat sunflower oil over high heat in a frying pan and fry your onions. Take a plate, place a sheet of paper towel on it, and transfer your fried onions to it using a slotted spoon. Set aside. |
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2
Done
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Preparation of the yogurt saucePeel and chop the garlic cloves. In a bowl, add the chopped garlic, plain yogurt, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and 1 pinch of salt. Mix well and set this sauce aside in the refrigerator while you prepare your mujadara! |
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3
Done
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Cooking lentilsRinse your green lentils thoroughly in cold water. In a large pot, add three times the volume of cold water to the lentils. Bring to a boil and cook over medium heat for 20 minutes. Drain the lentils and set aside. |
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4
Done
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Preparation of Lebanese MujadaraIn a large pot, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric, and sauté briefly. Add the uncooked rice and mix well so that the rice is coated with the spices. Pour in twice the amount of water as rice (300 ml in this case) and add salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the pot from the heat, let it simmer covered for 5 minutes, then add your cooked green lentils and half of the fried onions. Mix well. |
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5
Done
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Your homemade Lebanese mujadara is ready!You have made a delicious homemade Lebanese mujadara. To finish, wash your flat-leaf parsley leaves and arrange your Lebanese lentil rice on a nice plate. Sprinkle with a little yogurt sauce, chopped parsley, and the rest of your fried onions. Enjoy! |
