Mujadara is a delicious Middle Eastern dish made with lentils, rice, and caramelized onions. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night. But have you ever tried adding beef to your mujadara? If not, you’re in for a treat! In this article, I will share my favorite mujadara recipe with beef that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household.
To make this mujadara recipe with beef, you’ll need a few key ingredients. You’ll need ground beef, lentils, rice, yellow onion, parsley, kale, balsamic vinegar, and beef broth mixed with cornstarch. You’ll also need a baharat spice blend or zaatar seasoning, depending on your taste preferences. With these ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious and hearty mujadara dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
History of Mujadara
Origins
The origins of mujadara can be traced back to ancient times, with its roots believed to be in the region that is now modern-day Iraq. According to some sources, mujadara was first made in the 13th century and has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine ever since.
Mujadara is a dish that has evolved, with different variations and additions being made. While the basic ingredients of lentils, rice, and onions have remained the same, different regions have added their unique twist to the dish.
Cultural Significance
Mujadara has become a cultural icon in the Middle East, representing the simplicity and humility of the region’s cuisine. It is often served during special occasions and religious festivals and is a popular dish during Ramadan.
In addition to its cultural significance, mujadara is also filling and a nutritious meal. Lentils provide both protein and fiber, while rice provides carbohydrates for energy. The addition of caramelized onions adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb of ground beef
- 1 can of lentils
- 1-1.5 cups of rice
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 1 large yellow onion (or 2 shallots)
- 1/2 bunch of kale
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of beef broth mixed with cornstarch
- 1-2 tablespoons of baharat spice blend or zaatar seasoning
How to Make the Mujadara Recipe with Beef?
- Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef and begin cooking.
- While the beef is cooking, dice an onion (or shallots) and add it to the pan. Cook the beef and onions together until they are browned.
- As the beef and onions cook, roughly chop some kale leaves and parsley. Drain and rinse a can of lentils.
- Once the beef is cooked, add vinegar and stir until it has evaporated. Then, add the rice, beef broth, and 3 cups of water. Season with baharat spice blend and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the rice is done cooking.
- When the beef and rice are cooked completely, toss in the lentils and chopped kale. Stir until everything is heated through.
- Serve it hot and add toppings as desired. I like to top mine with feta cheese and pomegranate seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishes
Garnishes are a great way to add a pop of color and flavor to your mujadara dish. Some popular garnishes to consider include:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Chopped parsley
- Sliced green onions
- Lemon wedges
- Toasted pine nuts
Simply sprinkle your desired garnishes over the top of your Mujadara dish before serving.
Side Dishes
Mujadara with beef can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some side dishes to consider:
- Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers
- Hummus and pita bread
- Tabbouleh salad
- Fattoush salad
- Cucumber yogurt salad
- Roasted chicken or lamb
Nutritional Information
Calories and Macronutrients
A serving of this dish contains approximately 400 calories. This dish is a great source of protein, with around 20 grams per serving. It also contains healthy carbohydrates and fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied.
Vitamins and Minerals
It’s also high in iron, vital for keeping your blood cells healthy.` It also contains folate, a B vitamin that is essential for cell growth and development. Additionally, this dish is rich in zinc, which is important for immune function and wound healing.
Ingredient Modifications
To make this dish even healthier, you can make a few ingredient modifications. For example, you can use brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber content. You can also use lean beef or ground turkey instead of regular beef to reduce the fat content.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage Tips
- Keep the mujadara in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- You can freeze the mujadara in a container that’s safe for the freezer, and it’ll stay good for up to 3 months.
- If you are freezing the mujadara, make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before placing it in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
- To reheat the mujadara, you can use a stovetop, microwave, or oven.
- If you’re using a microwave, Put the mujadara in a dish that’s safe for the microwave, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- If you’re using a stovetop, transfer the mujadara to a saucepan and add a splash of broth or water. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If using an oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mujadara in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Common Variations
Vegetarian Options
If you are a vegetarian, you can make mujadara without meat. The dish is already high in protein because of the lentils, so you won’t be missing out on any nutrients. You can also add vegetables to the dish to make it more nutritious. Some popular vegetables to add to mujadara include carrots, tomatoes, and spinach.
Different Types of Rice
There are many different types of rice that you can use to make mujadara. The most common type of rice used is white rice, but you can also use brown rice or basmati rice. Each type of rice will give the dish a different flavor and texture. Brown rice will give the dish a nuttier flavor, while basmati rice will make the dish more aromatic.
Pairing with Beverages
Water
Water is always a good choice to drink with any meal, including mujadara. It helps to cleanse your palate and refresh your taste buds between bites. Plus, it’s a healthy and calorie-free option.
Red Wine
Red wine is a classic pairing with beef dishes, and it can also be a good match with mujadara. A full-bodied red wine with firm tannins, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, can stand up to the bold flavors of the beef and lentils.
Beer
If you prefer beer, a dark ale or porter can complement the earthy flavors of the mujadara. You can also try a wheat beer or a Belgian-style saison, which has fruity and spicy notes that can balance out the richness of the dish.
Tea
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, tea can be a great choice to pair with mujadara. A strong black tea, such as Assam or Darjeeling, can cut through the richness of the dish and refresh your palate. You can also try a mint tea or a spiced chai for a more exotic flavor pairing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mujadara with beef is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for meat lovers. It is a simple and easy-to-make recipe that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. The combination of lentils, rice, caramelized onions, and beef creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
The result is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, Mujadara with beef is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious it can be?
Did you know? Another great accompaniment to mujadara is cucumber yogurt salad.
Get the recipe now (by clicking the image below):
