What the BULK? Lebanese Lentils and Rice

Good morning and welcome back to Tuesday's "What the BULK?" Today’s recipe focuses on two different bulk items: lentils and long grain rice, both of which are inexpensive, easy to find and good for you. This traditional Lebanese dish, known as “Mujaddara” comes to us from the lovely Dede Med, who has a wonderful website chock full of Lebanese recipes and videos! If you're a fan of Middle Eastern food, please check out her site.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown lentils
• 3/4 cup long grain rice
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 2 tbs cumin
• 1 tbs salt
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup Sauteed onions for garnish
• 2 tbs fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

In a 3 or 4 quart pot on medium heat, add the olive oil and onions and cook for about 5-6 minutes until brown and caramelized. (veganmama note: you really want them caramelized, okay?) Add the rice and lentils and stir with the onions. Add the 4 cups of water and stir. Add the salt, stir again and then cover and let cook on medium/low heat for about 40 minutes, stir in between. After 40 minutes add the cumin and cook for another 15 minutes and add another cup of water if necessary, cook until lentils are no longer hard. Spread the mujaddara in a plate and top with caramelized brown sauteed onions in butter. Serve with a crisp salad.