Lentils and rice (Mujaddara) is one of my favorite things, a classic Lebanese combination that I have written about at least once and think about...a lot! A homey dish, it was the Friday special at Byblos in Wichita, KS and I actually got to enjoy it there on my last visit. I have fiddled with my own version over the years, but I was thinking the other night about a quick version? One thrown together with those lovely packets of microwaveable rice and canned lentils? Maybe not as good as the real thing, but in a pinch...it'll do.
Recipe: Quick & Easy Mujaddara
- 1 small white onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for garnish
- 2 16-oz cans lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 8.5-oz packages microwaveable rice, I like to use Seeds of Change Brown Basmatic Rice, prepared according to instructions
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package fried onions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil on medium and then add the onions. Sauté for 8-10 minutes or until the onion is soft and transulcent. Add the lentils and rice and stir to combine. Add about half of the vegetable broth and continue to stir, smashing the lentils against the pan as you do so. And the rest of the broth a little at a time and continue to stir until it is absorbed and the mixture starts to look a little dry. Taste and season with salt and pepper then let cool slightly. Serve warm, topping with a drizzle of olive oil and the fried onions.
