Mujadara With Bulgur

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Mujadara with bulgur is a delightful dish that captures the essence of comfort food.

It’s simple, nourishing, and packed with flavor.

This classic Middle Eastern dish combines earthy lentils and nutty bulgur, topped with caramelized onions, making it a perfect meal for both weeknights and special occasions.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe will guide you step by step to create a hearty, wholesome dish that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Mujadara is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly nutritious.

Brown lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, which provides a filling and satisfying meal.

The bulgur adds a lovely texture and infuses the dish with a slightly nutty flavor.

Plus, the caramelized onions bring a sweet depth that elevates the entire experience.

If you’re looking for a plant-based meal that is comfort in a bowl, look no further!

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Mujadara with bulgur, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups (420 g) brown lentils (small variety preferred)
• 5 cups (1200 ml) water
• 1½ cups (250 g) coarse bulgur (brown or white, preferably #2)
• 3 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil (extra virgin preferred, but light can be used)
• 16 ounces (450 g) yellow onion, sliced or diced

How To Make Mujadara With Bulgur

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, and I’m excited to walk you through each step!

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by sorting through the lentils to remove any debris.

Rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear.

This helps to clean any dirt and gives you a better flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the Lentils

In a large pot, combine the rinsed lentils and 5 cups of water.

Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.

Allow the lentils to cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are soft but not mushy.

Step 3: Add the Bulgur and Spices

After the lentils have cooked for 15 minutes, add the bulgur, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.

Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Cover the pot again and allow it to simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

The bulgur will absorb most of the liquid and expand.

Step 4: Caramelizing the Onions

While the lentils and bulgur are cooking, it’s time to prepare the onions.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.

Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized.

This process takes about 15-20 minutes, but the flavor is worth the wait!

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the lentil and bulgur mixture is done cooking, fluff it with a fork.

Serve it on a plate or in a bowl, generously topped with the caramelized onions.

You can also drizzle a bit more olive oil on top for extra richness.

Enjoy it warm, and savor the wonderful flavors that come together in this dish!

Expert Tips

• For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while cooking the lentils.
• If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
• Make sure to cook the onions slowly; this will enhance their natural sweetness and give you that beautiful caramel color.
• Let the Mujadara sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps the flavors meld even better.

Variations and Customizations

• Try adding sautéed vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to the lentil mixture for added nutrients and color.
• Top the Mujadara with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
• For a lemony touch, serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the dish just before eating.
• If you prefer rice, you can substitute the bulgur with brown rice for a different texture.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers of Mujadara with bulgur is easy! You can keep any uneaten portion in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

If the dish appears a bit dry, you might want to add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil while reheating.

FAQ

Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?

You can use other varieties of lentils, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Brown and green lentils work best as they hold their shape well.

Is Mujadara gluten-free?

No, mujadara with bulgur is not gluten-free since bulgur is made from wheat.

However, you can substitute bulgur with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free version.

Can I prepare Mujadara in advance?

Absolutely! Mujadara can be made ahead of time.

Cook it, let it cool, then store it in the fridge.

It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

What can I serve with Mujadara?

Mujadara is great on its own, but you can serve it with a simple salad, pickled vegetables, or side dishes like roasted cauliflower for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Mujadara with bulgur is a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty, wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body.

Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, it’s sure to impress everyone with its rich taste and delicious aroma.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of this traditional dish!

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