
Mjadra with Caramelized Onions and Crispy Tabbouleh
Picture a bowl of comfort that whispers of ancient Levantine kitchens: earthy green lentils and nutty bulgur, simmered together until tender, then crowned with a tangle of sweet, caramelized onions that turn silky and golden. You'll love the contrast of textures—the creamy grains, the crispy onion strands, and the bright, herbaceous tabbouleh that cuts through the richness with a burst of lemon and mint. This is mjadra, a humble dish elevated to a celebration. It's the kind of meal that fills your home with warm, toasty aromas and makes you feel like you're sharing a table in a Beirut garden. Every spoonful is a story of patience and simple ingredients transformed into pure magic.
Ingredients
- green lentils1 cup (200g)
- coarse bulgur1 cup (180g)
- large onions3, thinly sliced
- olive oil4 tbsp (60ml)
- ground cumin1 tsp
- ground coriander1 tsp
- salt1 tsp, or to taste
- black pepper1/2 tsp
- water3 cups (750ml)
- for tabbouleh: flat-leaf parsley1 cup, finely chopped
- for tabbouleh: fresh mint1/4 cup, finely chopped
- for tabbouleh: tomatoes1 large, diced small
- for tabbouleh: lemon juice2 tbsp
- for tabbouleh: olive oil1 tbsp
- for tabbouleh: salt1/4 tsp
Nutrition
Directions
- 1
Rinse the lentils and place in a medium pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until just tender but not mushy.
- 2
While lentils cook, heat 3 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown and caramelized. Season with a pinch of salt, then set aside.
- 3
Once lentils are tender, stir in the bulgur, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until bulgur is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- 4
While mjadra rests, prepare the tabbouleh: In a bowl, combine parsley, mint, tomato, lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, and salt. Toss well.
- 5
Fluff the mjadra with a fork and transfer to a serving platter. Top generously with the caramelized onions and serve with fresh tabbouleh on the side or layered on top.
- 6
Drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving, if desired.
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