Instant Pot Mujadara (Lentils & Rice with Caramelized Onions)

A hearty Middle Eastern comfort dish made effortlessly in the Instant Pot—tender lentils, perfectly spiced rice, and golden caramelized onions come together in one pot for a fragrant, nourishing meal. 

Mujadara is a staple dish known for its simple ingredients and bold flavours. This Instant Pot version makes it even easier, delivering a satisfying, protein-packed meal in minimal time.

Ingredients:

For the Mujadara:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup basmati or long-grain rice, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 bay leaf

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Yogurt or tahini drizzle (optional)

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the onions: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until golden brown. Remove half of the onions and set aside for garnish.
2. Sauté spices and garlic: Add minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add lentils & rice: Stir in the lentils, rice, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.
4. Pressure cook: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High for 15 minutes. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Fluff & serve: Open the lid, remove the bay leaf, and gently fluff the rice and lentils with a fork. Top with the reserved caramelized onions, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.

Optional Additions:

Make your Mujadara even more flavourful with these additions:

• Toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.
• Crumbled feta or plant-based cheese for a creamy contrast.
• Roasted vegetables (like eggplant or zucchini) to add more texture.
• A drizzle of pomegranate molasses or tahini for extra depth.

This Instant Pot Mujadara is an easy, flavourful, and nourishing meal that works as a satisfying main or a perfect side dish!