Mujaddarah is a versatile dish that’s especially popular in the Levant region. The method described today involves cooking rice with brown lentils, garnishing them with fried onions and serving with yogurt. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that warms the heart.

Huda from Jordan, by way of Palestine, submitted this fantastic recipe. It’s the kind of dish that transforms a simple recipe into a comforting meal. Huda’s memories of her mother whipping up this dish on lazy evenings, wanting a quick yet satisfying meal, echo the sentiment many of us share about our favorite comfort foods. There’s a beauty in the simplicity of Mujaddarah. It’s a dish born out of necessity yet stands the test of time.

As I followed Huda’s recipe, I couldn’t help but appreciate the ingenious method of cooking the rice. Boil it, then drain it. It’s a departure from the usual rice cooker routine, but it works like a charm. The combination of soft lentils and rice with the crunch of fried onions is nothing short of deliciousness.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this budget-friendly, quick fix. A bag of brown lentils, priced at around $2.49, provides the protein-packed base for the dish. Additionally, the long-grain rice costs about $1.99 per bag, adding a comforting texture to the mix. The humble onion, priced at pocket-friendly rates, transforms into golden crispy goodness with just a tablespoon of flour and a bit of oil. All in all, for just about $8.38, you can rustle up four generous servings of Mujaddarah, leaving you with a satisfied stomach and a happy wallet.

If you’re craving a taste of Middle Eastern comfort with a sprinkle of tradition, Mujaddarah is the perfect recipe for you. Happy cooking on a budget!