Lentils and Rice

Called Mujadarra this is a popular middle eastern dish, this is a very nutritious and also delicious way to serve rice. Lentils are very high in protein, iron and phosphorous. Found the recipe at this middle eastern food website. The second onion is optional if you don't want to add onion rings on the top.

Ingredients:
2 medium yellow onions, peeled
3 Tbs. olive oil
1 cup lentils
3-1/2 cups cold water
1 cup long-grain rice
2 1/4 cups water
2 tsp. salt
pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Dice one of the onions. Heat a large frying pan and add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and the diced onions. Sauté until quite brown and set aside.

2. In a 4-quart covered pot place the lentils and 3 1/2 cups water. Bring to a boil, covered, and then turn down to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes.

4. Add the cooked onion to the lentils, along with the rice, remaining water and salt.

5. Cover and simmer 20 minutes until rice and lentils are tender. If a bit of water remains unabsorbed, remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes and it will soak in.

6. Slice the remaining onion into rings. Heat the frying pan again and sauté the rings in the remaining olive oil.

7. To serve, top the lentils with the sautéed onion rings.