Mujadara

Instructions

1. In large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil for a few minutes. You know your oil is ready when you add a piece of onion and it sizzles on contact.
2. Add onions and stir well to coat all pieces with oil.
3. Stir frequently until onions are caramelized, crisp at the edges and starting to turn deep golden brown - about 15 minutes. Don't be scared if you see onions turning brown because that's where all the flavor come in!
4. Transfer caramelized onions to a different plate and set aside.
5. In the same skillet you used for onions, over high heat add lentils and warm water.
6. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and simmer until the lentils are tender - This will take about 25- 30 minutes. 
7. Add rice and the cooked onions to the lentils. Stir well.
8. Cover the pot and bring mixture back to a boil.
9. Reduce heat to low, keep pot covered, and cook until the water is absorbed and the rice and lentils are both cooked through - about 30 minutes. Stirring occasionally to prevent mixture from sticking to bottom of skillet.
10. Transfer Mujadara to serving plates immediately while still hot.
11. Serve hot, warm or at room temperature with your favorite salad and pita bread.
12. Enjoy!