Discover the delightful flavors of the Middle East with our Instant Pot Mujadara Rice and Lentils! This hearty and wholesome dish combines the earthy taste of brown lentils and fragrant basmati rice, all enhanced by the rich aroma of cumin and caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, you'll love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece in just 30 minutes. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the brown lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris or stones. Drain well.
- Peel and slice the onion into thin, uniform rings. Set aside half for caramelizing and garnishing.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the Sauté function. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and half the sliced onions. Sauté until golden brown and caramelized, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside for garnish.
- In the same Instant Pot, add remaining olive oil and the other half of the onions. Sauté until they become translucent and soft.
- Add cumin to the onions and stir for 30 seconds to release its aromatic oils.
- Add rinsed lentils, basmati rice, vegetable broth, and salt to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook mode. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release.
- Open the lid and fluff the rice and lentils with a fork. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to absorb remaining moisture.
- Transfer to a serving dish and top with the caramelized onions as a garnish.
- Serve hot as a main dish or side, optionally with a side of yogurt or salad.
Tips
- Rinse the Lentils: Always rinse your brown lentils thoroughly before cooking to ensure they are clean and free from any debris. This step can make a significant difference in the final flavor and texture of your dish.
- Caramelize the Onions: For a deeper flavor, take your time caramelizing the onions. The golden-brown color adds a sweet richness that elevates the entire dish, so don’t rush this step!
- Use Vegetable Broth: Opt for vegetable broth instead of water for cooking your rice and lentils. This will infuse the dish with additional flavor, making it even more delicious.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes before doing a quick release helps the rice and lentils finish cooking gently, resulting in a fluffier texture.
- Serve with Accompaniments: For an extra touch, serve your Mujadara with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad. The coolness of yogurt contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced dish.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add other spices or ingredients, such as garlic or a pinch of cinnamon, to personalize the flavor profile to your liking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
