Mujaddara – A Middle Eastern Lentil Dish That Costs Almost Nothing

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Looking for a comforting, protein-packed dish that’s bursting with flavor yet shockingly affordable? Meet Mujaddara, the Middle Eastern staple that combines lentils, rice, and crispy onions into a mouthwatering budget-friendly masterpiece. With simple pantry ingredients and loads of flavor, Mujaddara is a must-try if you’re eating on a dime.

What is Mujaddara?

Mujaddara (sometimes spelled Mujadara or Mejadra) is a traditional Middle Eastern dish with roots in Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian cuisines. It’s simple yet rich in flavor, combining lentils and rice (or bulgur) with aromatic spices and crispy fried onions. It’s often served with yogurt, fresh veggies, or warm pita bread.

This dish is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, filling, and packed with protein while costing just pennies per serving.

Why Mujaddara is a Budget Hero

• Pantry Staples Only: Lentils, rice, onions, and olive oil are incredibly inexpensive yet nutritious.
• Protein-Packed: Lentils deliver a powerful punch of plant-based protein to keep you full.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Mujaddara tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for bulk cooking.

How to Make Mujaddara (Serves 4-6 for Under $5)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils ($1)
• 1 cup rice (white or brown) ($0.75)
• 3 large onions, thinly sliced ($0.90)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (Pantry staple)
• 1 tsp cumin ($0.10)
• 1 tsp coriander ($0.10)
• 1 tsp paprika ($0.10)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon ($0.05)
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat) ($0.05)
• Salt and pepper to taste (Pantry staple)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) ($0.25)

Total Cost: $4.30 for 4-6 servings ($0.70 per serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly and place them in a pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, toss the onions in a teaspoon of flour before frying.
4. Combine & Season: In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the cooked rice and lentils. Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and chili flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
5. Assemble: Top your Mujaddara with the crispy onions and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Mujaddara Perfection

• Extra Crispy Onions: For maximum crunch, spread your fried onions on a paper towel after cooking to soak up excess oil.
• Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of tahini before serving for added tang and richness.
• Mix It Up: Swap rice for bulgur or quinoa for a twist on tradition.

What to Serve with Mujaddara

• Creamy Yogurt Dip: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt balances Mujaddara’s savory flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Salad: Cucumber, tomato, and parsley salad add a crisp, refreshing contrast.
• Pita Bread: Perfect for scooping up those delicious lentils and onions.

Storage & Meal Prep

Mujaddara stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the texture.

More Budget-Friendly Meal Ideas

If you loved Mujaddara, try these other budget-conscious recipes:

• Koshari – Egypt’s Comfort Food That Feeds a Crowd for Pennies
• Shakshuka – The $3 Middle Eastern Egg Dish You Didn’t Know You Needed!
• Crispy Baked Falafel – A High-Protein Meal for Pennies

External Resources for Middle Eastern Cooking

• The Kitchn’s Guide to Middle Eastern Spices
• Serious Eats’ Guide to Lebanese Cuisine

Final Thoughts

Mujaddara is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. This humble yet flavor-packed dish is destined to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try, and you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so rich and satisfying.

Have you tried Mujaddara before? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!