Caramelized Onion Mujadara

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions

   10 min hands-on30 min waiting

   • Thinly slice most of the onions.
   • Heat some olive oil in a large frying pan over low to medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook until golden and caramelized.
   • Set aside half of the caramelized onions for garnishing.

2. Start the Flavor Base

   2 min hands-on

   • Mince the garlic finely.
   • In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the garlic, cumin seeds, and tomato sauce. Stir constantly for 1 minute.

3. Build the Broth

   • Add water and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to dissolve the broth evenly.

4. Cook the Lentils

   2 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water.
   • Add the lentils to the pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
   • Reduce heat to low, cover with the lid slightly ajar, and simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Add the Rice

   1 min hands-on15 min waiting

   • Stir in the rice after the lentils have cooked for 10 minutes.
   • Cover with the lid slightly ajar and simmer for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Add a splash of water if the mixture becomes too dry.

6. Incorporate Onions and Vinegar

   1 min hands-on2 min waiting

   • Stir in half of the caramelized onions and some distilled vinegar.
   • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes on low heat.

7. Serve and Garnish

   2 min hands-on

   • Ladle the mixture into serving bowls.
   • Top with reserved caramelized onions and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
   • Sprinkle a few drops of vinegar for a tangy kick.
   • Use raw onion petals as scoops for a crunchy contrast.
   • Cooking tips:
   • For perfectly caramelized onions, cook them slowly over low heat and stir frequently.
   • Lightly toast cumin seeds in a dry pan for a smokier flavor.
   • Keep the lentil-rice mixture slightly wet as it will thicken as it cools.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro for enhanced flavor.