Mjeddrah(Pronounced Mi-Jed-Rah)
A hearty Middle Eastern lentil and rice stew featuring sweet onions and olive oil, perfect for comforting meals and those interested in traditional flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water.
- Heat 3 to 3 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Slice the onions thinly and add them to the pot.
- Cook the onions until golden and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add the rinsed lentils, water, and salt to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Meanwhile, rinse the brown rice and cook separately according to package instructions.
- Once the lentils and rice are cooked, combine and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try sautéing garlic with the onions, or adding a pinch of cumin or coriander. If you don’t have brown rice, white rice or quinoa can be good substitutes. Ensure to rinse the grains thoroughly to remove any excess starch, which helps prevent stickiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mjeddrah hot, drizzled with additional olive oil for richness. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad dressing or can be complemented by a side of grilled vegetables. This dish is also excellent as a filling for wraps or served alongside roasted meats or fish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until heated through. This helps maintain the texture of the lentils and rice.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mjeddrah(Pronounced Mi-Jed-Rah) contains roughly 1122 calories, with 28g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2641mg per serving (115% 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 make Mjeddrah ahead of time?
Yes, Mjeddrah can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It's a great option for meal prep as the flavors deepen over time. Just reheat gently before serving.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Mjeddrah is a vegan-friendly dish, packed with protein from lentils and fiber from brown rice. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking for hearty vegan recipes.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Mjeddrah can be enjoyed as is, or transformed into a delicious grain bowl. Add fresh vegetables, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a refreshing twist.
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).