Budget Bites Mujadara
- Katie Lolas
- May 26
- 2 min read
Who in the diaspora grew up eating this one?
A levantine speciality and one of the cheapest, most comforting meals you can make. Lentils, rice, caramelised onions and cumin cooked into the perfect cosy dish. Feeds 6 for around $2.10–$2.20 per serve - proof that budget meals can still be hearty, nourishing and full of flavour. Serve with yoghurt and a fresh salad for the ultimate comfort dinner. You need to try this one!
Serves: 5-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
1 cup dried brown or green lentils
1½ cups jasmine rice
¼ cup olive oil
2 medium brown onions, peeled and finely diced
½ tbsp cooking salt
2 tsp ground cumin
To Serve
Fresh salad of choice
Plain yoghurt
Method
Step 1. Place the lentils in a small pot and cover generously with water. Bring to the boil and cook for 15 minutes, or until just tender but not falling apart (al dente). Drain and set aside.
Step 2. In a deep pot or wide pan, heat the olive oil over medium–high heat. Add the finely diced onions and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring, until soft and lightly golden.
Step 3. Add the drained lentils, rice, salt and cumin. Stir well to coat everything evenly in the oil and spices.
Step 4. Pour in 2½ cups boiling water, bring to the boil and let it bubble for 4-5 minutes. Reduce the heat to very low, cover with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 13-14 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice and lentils are tender.
Step 5. Turn off the heat and leave the pot covered for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork.
Step 6. Serve the mujadara warm, topped generously with crispy fried onions. A fresh salad on the side is essential along with yoghurt
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