Try this Lebanese dish made with Lentils, Rice and asparagus, also known as Mujadara. This is a simple yet hearty dish that is packed with flavor and nutrition.
This recipe is super delicious, and easy to make, pretty cost-effective, and incredibly healthy. It is made with simple ingredients like lentils, rice, caramelized onions, and a blend of spices. You can easily find these ingredients in your pantry. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
In Indian cuisine, there are similar dishes that share some similarities with Mujadara in terms of ingredients and preparation methods. One such dish is “Khichdi” or Khichadi made with lentils and rice. Khichadi or khichdi is a perfect option for a satisfying and nutritious meal as well. Khichdi is a traditional Indian ‘comfort’ food made by cooking rice and lentils together with spices. While the basic recipe for Khichdi consists of rice, lentils (usually moong dal or split yellow lentils), and spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger, variations exist across different regions of India.
Mujadara or Mujaddara is a dish consisting of cooked lentils together with groats (hulled grain broken into fragments larger than grits), rice, and garnished with sautéed caramelized onions. Mujadara has historic roots in the Middle East, specifically in the Levantine region, which comprises Palestine, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon today. It has been an integral part of Mediterranean cuisine for generations and is still loved today.
The process of preparing this dish is easy, which makes it a great option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The combination of lentils and rice provides a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and filling meal. The caramelized onions add a rich and sweet flavor, elevating the dish to a whole new level. Add a pop of seasonal flavor with asparagus. Let’s dive right into the instructions and ingredients list.
Storing Mujadara:
Before storing Mujadara, ensure it has cooled completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or sealable plastic bag. Refrigerate the Mujadara, where it can be stored for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Mujadara:
To freeze Mujadara, first, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Portion it into smaller serving-sized portions, if desired, for easier thawing and reheating. Place the portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
When storing Mujadara or any dish containing rice in the refrigerator, it’s important to avoid keeping the rice for too long. Rice tends to dry out and lose its texture and flavor over time when stored in the fridge for an extended period. To maintain the quality of the rice in your Mujadara, it’s best to consume it within 3-4 days of refrigeration. If you have leftover Mujadara that you don’t plan to consume within this timeframe, consider freezing it instead of keeping it in the fridge.
I hope you enjoyed this recipe and do try it out. Let me know in the comments how your recipe turned out to be.
Check out my other rice and lentil based dishes:
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