SIMPLE ARABIC-INSPIRED MUJADDARA WITH TURKISH SPICES AND FETA CHEESE
A comforting, flavorful twist on the classic Mujaddara using green lentils from Lefkada island, fragrant Turkish spices, and tangy sheepβs feta to balance sweet caramelized onions. This dish highlights the delicate texture of basmati rice and the peppery notes of Englouvi lentils.
π Prep & Cook Time: 50 min
π½οΈ Servings: 4
π₯ Ingredients
- 150 g long-grain rice (basmati)
- 120 g green lentils (or Le Puy lentils or black Beluga lentils)
- 2 medium onions (approx. 200 g)
- 100 g sheepβs feta cheese (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Turkish spice mix
- 4 sprigs fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
π©βπ³ Instructions
- Cook the rice in salted water following package instructions. Drain well when done.
- Boil lentils in water until tender (about 30 minutes). Add salt during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Drain thoroughly and combine with the cooked rice.
- Slice onions moderately thick. Heat oil in a large pot over low heat and add onions with a pinch of salt. SautΓ© gently for about 15 minutes until very soft and pale yellow, stirring occasionally.
- Increase heat to medium and continue cooking the onions, stirring frequently for about 10 more minutes until golden brown and caramelized. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Remove onions from heat and mix them into the rice and lentils.
If not using feta, stir Turkish spice mix into the onions about 30 seconds before removing from heat. - Combine rice, lentils, and onions well, season with salt, cover the pot, and let rest for at least 15 minutes to blend flavors.
- If using feta, crumble it and gently mix with the Turkish spices and chopped parsley. If not, just chop the parsley.
- Serve the rice and lentils topped with the spiced feta or simply with chopped parsley.
π‘ Tips
- Englouvi lentils hold their shape well and have a subtle peppery aroma, but Le Puy or Beluga lentils work nicely too.
- Caramelizing the onions slowly brings out their sweetness and richness, essential for authentic Mujaddara flavor.
- The Turkish spice mix adds warmth and complexity β adjust to taste.
π Perfect For
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals (omit feta for vegan)
- Comfort food with Middle Eastern flair
- Balanced lunch or dinner
π Final Thoughts
This easy Mujaddara variant offers a satisfying harmony of textures and flavors, perfect as a wholesome standalone dish or a hearty side. The blend of caramelized onions, tender lentils, and aromatic spices makes it an enduring favorite.