Different Types of Mujadara Explained

Explore the world of the different types of Mujadara. All variations have one common denominator, they must include lentils which are coupled with either rice or bulgur.

a collage of 4 different types of mujadara lentil dishes

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What is the difference between mujadara and mdardara?
Where did Mujadara originate?
Types of Mujadara Recipes

First let’s clear things up...

What is the difference between mujadara and mdardara?

Both Middle Eastern dishes mujadara and mdardara use the same ingredients (lentils, onion, rice or wheat (bulgur)), but different ratios and the method of cooking is different.

Mujadara is a moist pudding-like consistency as the lentils are generally the predominant ingredient and only a small quantity of rice is cooked together.

Here's a version mujadara.

Whereas mdardara is a pilaf. The lentils are par-cooked prior to adding the rice, which are similar in ratio, and the grains remain intact and fluffy.

Check out this lentils and rice recipe.

It is important to note, that the names of these are used interchangeably depending on the region/country.

This can be a tad confusing.

For example, my Lebanese family (from the north), refers to the pilaf version as mujadara rather than mdardara.

Where did Mujadara originate?

Mujadara is believed to have first been documented in the oldest surviving Arabic cookbook “Kitab al-Ṭabīkh” which translates to “Book of Dishes” in English.

It was written by Abū Muḥammad al-Muẓaffar ibn Naṣr Ibn Sayyar al-Warraq in the 10th century. A writer from ancient Baghdad.

Variations

Whilst a true mujadara recipe requires no additional flavorings, as the flavor comes from the use of onions, lentils, and oil which are enhanced with salt.

Some variations may call for the use of spices.

An example of this is mujadara safra without oil (accommodating those following a low-fat diet), to boost the flavor a touch of cumin and Lebanese 7 spice is used.

cooked lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions and chopped radish in a white plate

Types of Mujadara Recipes

Lebanese Mdardara

Lebanese mdardara is a classic. This variation is the pilaf like mujadara, the rice and lentils are fluffy and are topped with the most delicious caramelized onion.

Mdardara

Mujadara Makhbousa

For a creamier version of mujadara, give mujadara makhbousa a try. This variation uses brown lentils, which are cooked with rice and onion until a creamy porridge-like consistency is formed. Such a comforting dish that's perfect for cold days.

Mujadara Makhbousa

a round plate filled with thick yellow porridge and browned Lebanese pita pieces

Mujadara Safra (Red Lentils and Rice)

Mujadara safra swaps out the brown lentils for red lentils. The result is a yellow porridge-like dish that's bursting with flavor and perfect for a hearty meal.

Mujadara Safra

cooked lentils and bulgur called mujadara hamra in a white bowl with a salad

Mujadara Hamra (Lentils and Bulgur)

If you're looking for a heartier version try mujadara hamra. This variation swaps out the rice for bulgur, a type of cracked wheat that adds a chewy texture to the dish. The lentils are simmered and then mixed with the bulgur and caramelized onions.

Mujadara Hamra

You might be interested to know what to serve with mujadara, mostly paired with fresh or pickled vegetables, this listicle post helps to illustrate some of my Lebanese family's favorite sides.

What's your favorite type of mujadara? Comment below.

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Different Types of Mujadara

What is the difference between mujadara and mdardara?