Mejadra Israeli Rice/Lentil Dish

While North Americans love their French Fries, Israelis love their Mejadra.

Mejadra is an Israeli comfort food that combines rice with lentils, fried onions and amazing aromatic spices.  This combination is so incredibly nutritious because it is made with a grain (rice) and a bean (lentils) to create a complete non-animal based protein. It also has plenty of much needed fiber.

This perfect side dish is so easy to prepare and is extremely economical.  With just a few added herbs and spices you can feel like you are eating in a traditional Sephardic home or the best restaurant in Israel.

Ingredients:

fresh middle-eastern spices

• 1 cup of Basmati or Long Grain Rice
• 3 cups of water
• ½ cup Galilee Green Olive Oil
• 2 chopped onions
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 ½ cups green lentils
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
• 1 ½ tablespoons coriander seeds
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. Heat Galilee Green Olive Oil in a wide pot and add the onions
2. Fry onions on a medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring often until onions are caramelized and turn dark
3. Add water and bring to a boil
4. Add salt, black pepper, turmeric, coriander and cinnamon
5. Add the lentils and cook for 30 minutes until they are almost cooked
6. Add the rice and cook another 20 minutes, until they are soft
7. You might need to add an additional cup of water if needed and cook another few minutes
8. Taste and adjust seasoning
9. Drizzle more olive oil before serving

Mejadra can be eaten on its own with a side salad or as a healthy side dish with lamb or chicken.

Get the real Israeli flavor with
Galilee Green Extra Virgin Olive Oil

see plans and prices