Basmati rice scented with cinnamon and cumin gets tossed with protein-rich lentils in this veg-forward dish that pulls inspiration from mujadara—a simple Lebanese dish made with rice and lentils.
Toss the carrots with the lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon each cumin and salt, and a few grinds of black pepper in a bowl; set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, until deep golden brown, about 12 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove about half of the onion to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside.
Add the garlic, cinnamon, cayenne and the remaining 1 3/4 teaspoons cumin to the pan with the remaining onion. Cook, stirring, 1 minute. Stir in the rice and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Add 2 cups water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, about 18 minutes.
Stir the lentils into the rice. Serve topped with the reserved carrot mixture and onion, the yogurt and cilantro.
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Photograph by Antonis Achilleos
This recipe has been updated to more accurately recognize its origin or to add cultural context. It may differ from what was originally published or broadcast.
Courtesy of Food Network Magazine
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