Lebanese Mujadara Recipe for Iftar: As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast, becomes a time for celebration and shared joy. Families and friends gather to indulge in delicious dishes that nourish the body and soul. This year, why not add a touch of Lebanese tradition to your Iftar table with a hearty and flavorful Lebanese Mujadara recipe?
Mujadara, also known as “Mejadra” or “Mudardara,” is a staple dish in Lebanese cuisine. A simple yet satisfying combination of lentils and rice, seasoned with fragrant spices, Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar is a perfect choice for a wholesome and comforting meal. It’s vegetarian, protein-rich, and easily customizable to suit your dietary preferences.
This guide will take you through the steps of creating a delicious Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar, along with some tips and variations to make it your own.
Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar: Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- ½ cup brown rice, rinsed
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed green lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still retain their shape. Drain any excess water and set aside.
Tip: For a quicker cooking option, you can use pre-cooked green lentils. However, using dried lentils allows for better control over the texture.
- Caramelize the onions: While the lentils are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they become golden brown and caramelized. This process can take approximately 15-20 minutes. Patience is key here, as the caramelization adds a rich depth of flavor to the final dish.
Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar Tip:
Don’t rush the caramelization process. If the heat seems too high and the onions are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Burnt onions will impart a bitter taste to the dish.
- Combine lentils and rice: Once the onions are caramelized, add the rinsed brown rice and cooked lentils to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season and simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and season with ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover the pan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed.
Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar Tip: Adjust the amount of vegetable broth depending on your desired consistency. If you prefer a looser texture, add a little more broth. If you like your Mujadara to be drier, use slightly less broth.
- Fluff and garnish: Once the rice and lentils are cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Fluff the mixture gently with a fork and let it stand covered for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld further. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness (optional).
Enjoy your Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar!
Variations:
- Spruce it up with spices: Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar offers a wonderful canvas for experimentation. For a touch of warmth, add a pinch of cayenne pepper at the beginning with the onions. If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can add a delightful brightness.
- Make it vegan: Simply substitute the vegetable broth with your favorite vegan broth option and omit the garnish of parsley if it’s not grown organically.
- Add protein: For a more protein-rich version, consider adding chopped roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant along with the onions during the caramelizing step. You can also stir in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled tofu just before serving.
- Top with fried onions: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, prepare a small batch of crispy fried onions by thinly slicing an additional onion and frying it in hot oil until golden brown. Sprinkle these fried onions over the finished Mujadara for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions:
Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar pairs beautifully with a variety of other traditional Lebanese dishes, making it a fantastic addition to your Iftar spread. Here are some ideas:
- Labneh: This thick, strained yogurt adds a refreshing tang and creamy texture to complement the savory Mujadara.
- Baba Ghanoush: This smoky roasted eggplant dip is another classic Lebanese dish that pairs perfectly with the earthy flavors of the Mujadara.
- Hummus: This chickpea-based dip is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and provides a delicious protein boost alongside the Mujadara.
- Falafel: Crispy fried falafel balls made from chickpeas or fava beans are a great addition for those seeking a more substantial meal.
- Pita Bread: Warm pita bread provides the perfect vessel for scooping up your Mujadara and other delicious dips and side dishes.
- Dates: Dates are a traditional way to break the fast during Iftar, and their sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the savory Mujadara.
Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar: Additional Tips
- Leftovers: Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
- Adjust spice level: This recipe offers a mild spice level. Feel free to adjust the amount of cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper to suit your preferences.
- Dietary restrictions: As mentioned earlier, Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar is naturally vegetarian and can be easily adapted for vegan and gluten-free diets.
Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar is a flavorful, wholesome, and versatile dish that is perfect for breaking your fast during Ramadan. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a crowd-pleaser, sure to satisfy everyone at your Iftar table. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this delicious dish, and enjoy the spirit of togetherness and community that Ramadan embodies.
Beyond Iftar:
While the Lebanese Mujadara recipe for Iftar is a perfect Ramadan meal, it’s also a fantastic dish to enjoy throughout the year. It’s a budget-friendly option that can be easily incorporated into your weekly meal plans.
We hope this guide inspires you to try this traditional Lebanese dish and create your own variations. Embrace the flavors and celebrate the spirit of Iftar with a comforting and delicious Lebanese Mujadara recipe!