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Mujadara (Lentils & Rice with Caramelized Onions)

Mujadara is a classic Arabic recipe now enjoyed all over the Middle East featuring lentils and rice with caramelized onions, herbs, and yogurt.

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Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition

3 quarts (3.5 L) water

¼ cup (60 mL) garlic, minced

3 Tbsp (45 mL) cumin

2 tsp (10 mL) salt

2 Tbsp (30 mL) dried oregano

2 Tbsp (30 mL) pepper, freshly ground

2 ½ cups (625 mL) brown rice, rinsed well

2 ½ cups (625 mL) whole red lentils, dry and rinsed well

½ cup (125 mL) extra virgin olive oil

2 ½ cups (625 mL) yellow onions, halved and sliced thin

2 ½ cups (625 mL) labneh or plain non-fat Greek yogurt

⅔ cup (150 mL) prepared pesto

Directions

In a large heavy bottom rondeau, add water, garlic, cumin, salt, oregano, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium to high heat.
Add rice, cover and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.
Add lentils and return the mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for an additional 20 minutes until the water is absorbed and lentils are tender.
While lentils are cooking, heat oil in a heavy bottomed skillet and add onions.
Stir frequently and cook until onions are deeply caramelized and beginning to crisp. Remove from skillet and drain over a wire rack or on paper towel.
When lentils and rice are done, fluff lightly with a fork and transfer to a large serving platter or individual bowls. Top with onions and serve labneh or Greek yogurt and pesto drizzled over the top.