Bahraini Mujaddara (Lentils and Rice)
A comforting and flavorful dish of lentils and rice, seasoned with aromatic spices and often topped with crispy fried onions. Mujaddara is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and a hearty vegetarian option.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Brown or green lentils
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 large Onions(thinly sliced, for topping)
- 0.25 cup Olive oil(for frying onions, plus more for cooking)
- 1.5 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.25 tsp Cinnamon powder
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 3 cups Water or vegetable broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the lentils and rice separately. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Rinsing helps remove excess starch and any debris. - 2
In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and fry until deeply golden brown and crispy. This may take 20-30 minutes. Remove the onions with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve the flavored oil.
⏱️ 20-30 minutes💡 Tip: Be patient with the onions; slow frying yields the best crispy results. Don't overcrowd the pan. - 3
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of the reserved onion-infused olive oil (or fresh olive oil) over medium heat. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Toasting the spices enhances their flavor. - 4
Add the rinsed lentils and rice to the pot. Stir to coat them with the spices and oil. Add the water or vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
💡 Tip: Ensure the liquid level is about 1 inch above the rice and lentils. - 5
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice and lentils are tender.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes💡 Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain steam. - 6
Once cooked, let the mujaddara rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes off the heat. Fluff with a fork.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes💡 Tip: Resting allows the grains to fully absorb moisture and become fluffy. - 7
Serve the mujaddara warm, topped generously with the crispy fried onions. It can be served as a main dish or a side.
💡 Tip: A dollop of plain yogurt or a simple side salad complements the dish well.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of olive oil for frying the onions.
- ✓Some variations include adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom to the spice mix.
- ✓Ensure the onions are truly crispy; they add a crucial textural element.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of pomegranate molasses to the cooking liquid for a slightly tangy flavor.
- Serve with a side of plain yogurt or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.