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mujadara b 30

Mujadara with Red Beans

5 from 1 vote
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 49 minutes
Servings 5
Course
Main Course
Cuisine
Lebanese
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Description

Mujadara with red beans is a comforting Lebanese village-style dish made with wholesome whole-grain bulgur, tender red beans, and sweet caramelized onions. It’s traditionally served with creamy plain yogurt and a fresh Lebanese green salad. Simple, nourishing, and full of flavor, it’s the kind of traditional homemade meal we grew up enjoying.

Ingredients
 

  • 3 cups dried red pinto beans
  • 8 large onions
  • 2 cups coarse bulgur #3
  • 10 cups water for cooking the beans
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons salt or to taste

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the red beans under running water and drain. Place them in a large bowl and cover with water, ensuring the water is at least 3 inches above the beans. Add a pinch of salt and leave them on the counter to soak for at least 8 hours or overnight.
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  • Drain the beans and place them in a pot. Add 10 cups of water and cook over high heat. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface. Once the water comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1½ hours, or until the beans are fully cooked. Drain the beans, reserving the broth.
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  • Finely chop the onions.
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  • To caramelize the onions: Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the onions. Keep the heat at medium-low to prevent the onions from burning before they have a chance to caramelize.
    This is where you need to be patient. At first, the onions will begin to turn translucent. Continue stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan to prevent them from sticking or burning, until the onions reach the desired deep brown color. They should be deeply dark brown—just one stage before burning.
    This is an essential step for perfecting the dish, so take your time. Watch the detailed video tutorial for guidance. The process takes approximately 25–30 minutes.
  • Now add 4 cups of the bean broth to the caramelized onions. Once it comes to a boil, add the red beans, coarse bulgur, and salt. Mix well to allow all the flavors to infuse together.
  • Cover the pot, reduce the heat to very low, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bulgur is fully cooked. The aroma will be irresistibly inviting—happy eating! Serve with plain yogurt, fattoush, or your favorite green salad.
    mujadara b 30

Video

Keyword Lebanese comfort food
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