Lentils And Rice (Imjadara)
Imjadara is a hearty Middle Eastern lentil and rice dish with caramelized onions and buttery flavor, perfect for comforting meals or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In 4 cups of water, boil lentils, diced onion, and 4 tablespoons butter for 30 minutes.
- Add fried onion in butter to the lentil mixture.
- Add rinsed rice and cook slowly until rice is done.
- Add salt to taste.
- Serve hot, optionally with cabbage salad with Lebanese Salad Dressing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using vegetable broth instead of water when boiling the lentils. If you don’t have butter, olive oil can be a suitable substitute for frying the onion. You can also add spices like cumin or coriander for extra flavor. Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming gummy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot as a comforting main dish, garnished with additional fried onions on top. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mom's Sour Cream Cabbage for a refreshing contrast. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the flavors. Consider serving with a side of yogurt or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This dish can also be served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentils And Rice (Imjadara) contains roughly 361 calories, with 8g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1564mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of lentils, such as green or brown lentils, though cooking times may vary slightly. Avoid red lentils, as they cook down more and can become mushy, altering the dish's texture.
Is it possible to make Imjadara vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The recipe remains delicious while accommodating a vegan diet.
What can I serve with Lentils and Rice?
Lentils and Rice pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad, such as tabbouleh, or with pita bread for a hearty meal. You can also offer a side of pickles or a yogurt-based sauce for added flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).