zoom_in Click to enlarge

Mejadra

▲ ▼

description Mejadra Overview

Mejadra is a Levantine rice-and-legume dish made from rice, lentils, and onions cooked until deeply browned or caramelized. Recipes vary in the grain, spices, and texture, but the dish is generally served as a vegetarian main course or side, often with yogurt, salad, or other accompaniments. Its defining contrast is between the earthy lentils and rice and the sweet, crisp onions.

help Mejadra FAQ

What is mejadra made of?

Mejadra combines spiced long-grain rice, green or brown lentils, and a generous topping of deeply caramelized onions. The contrast between soft grains and crisp, sweet onions is central to the dish.

Is mejadra the same dish as mujaddara?

Mejadra is one English transliteration of the Levantine dish also written as mujaddara or mujadara. The spelling varies, but the recognizable combination of rice, lentils, and fried or caramelized onions remains consistent.

What spices are commonly used in mejadra?

Recipes vary, but cumin is a common seasoning for the lentils and rice, with other warm spices added according to regional or family practice. The dish's strongest flavor often comes from the intensely browned onions rather than from a complicated spice blend.

Is mejadra vegetarian or vegan?

The basic combination of rice, lentils, spices, and onions is naturally plant-based when cooked with oil. Some modern servings add yogurt or other dairy accompaniments, so the complete plate can vary.

swap_horiz

Looking for Mejadra alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward