Instant pot mujadara

Making mujadara in the Instant Pot is a total game changer. It saves so much time and effort, especially on busy days. Instead of standing over the stove, you can have this delicious, wholesome meal ready in just minutes.

First, sauté the chopped onions in the Instant Pot using the sauté setting. Once they’re soft and golden, add the rinsed lentils, water, salt, pepper, and a bay leaf. Seal the lid, set the timer, and let the Instant Pot do the work. After 5 minutes of cooking, cancel the timer and do a quick release. Open the lid, add the bulgur (or rice), and mix well. Close the lid again and cook for another 2 minutes. Everything comes out perfectly tender and flavorful.

Meanwhile, you can prep a fresh salad or chop some vegetables on the side. By the time the mujadara is done, your full dinner is ready to serve.

Not only is this method quick and easy, but it also locks in flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying option. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, Instant Pot mujadara is the perfect solution for a fast, nutritious, and comforting meal.

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Instant pot mujadara ingredients

Lentils are the star of the dish, providing a hearty, earthy base packed with protein and fiber. They give mujadara its signature texture and are essential for creating the creamy consistency that makes this dish so comforting.

Onions add incredible depth of flavor. First, they are cooked until soft and translucent, infusing the lentils with a subtle sweetness. Then, caramelized onions are added on top, creating a rich, golden layer that enhances both the taste and presentation.

Bulgur wheat is my preferred grain for mujadara. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a tender, chewy texture that complements the lentils perfectly. While some people use rice instead, bulgur is a healthier option that adds extra fiber and nutrients.

Water is crucial for cooking the lentils and bulgur, helping them soften and blend together into a smooth, creamy consistency.

Olive oil brings everything together, adding a rich, silky texture and enhancing the flavors of the onions and lentils.

Salt and black pepper are the simple yet essential seasonings that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them.

Bay leaf adds a subtle depth of flavor, infusing the dish with a mild herbal aroma that 

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How to make mujadara in the instant pot

Step 1:

Sort through the lentils to remove any debris or damaged ones. Rinse them well and set aside.

Step 2:

Chop one onion finely for cooking. Slice the remaining onions into thin strips for the caramelized topping.

Step 3:

Turn on the sauté setting on your Instant Pot. Add some olive oil and the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes soft, translucent, and lightly golden.

Step 4:

Add the rinsed lentils, water, salt, black pepper, and a bay leaf. Stir everything together. Cancel the sauté mode, close the lid, and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for a few minutes.

Step 5:

Once the cooking time is done, do a quick release. Open the lid and stir. If the mixture looks too dry, add a little more water.

Step 6:

Add the rinsed bulgur wheat or rice, depending on your preference. Mix well, close the lid again, and pressure cook for a couple more minutes.

Step 7:

When it’s finished, do another quick release. Open the lid, give it a final stir, then serve.

Step 8:

While the mujadara is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan. Add the sliced onions and cook them slowly until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 9:

Serve the mujadara warm, topped with the caramelized onions. Pair it with salad, fresh veggies, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.

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Is mujadara Nutritious dish?

• Rich in Protein and Fiber: Lentils provide plant-based protein and a high amount of fiber, supporting digestion, stabilizing blood sugar, and promoting heart health.
• Low in Unhealthy Fats: When prepared with olive oil in moderation, mujadara offers healthy fats that contribute to overall cardiovascular well-being.
• Whole Grains: Whether you use bulgur wheat or rice, these whole grains offer complex carbohydrates, which provide lasting energy and help keep you full longer.
• Antioxidant Benefits: Onions are a good source of antioxidants and beneficial compounds that can aid in reducing inflammation and supporting immune function.
• Balanced and Satisfying: The combination of lentils, grains, and caramelized onions creates a filling, balanced meal that is both delicious and nutrient-dense.

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Different ways of cooking the onions for the topping

Method 1: Deep Frying

Cut the onions into thin strips. Heat oil in a deep pan until it reaches the proper frying temperature. Add the onion strips and fry them until they turn extra crispy and golden. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Method 2: Sautéing in Olive Oil

Cut the onions into thin strips. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion strips and cook them until they caramelize. The onions become crispy on the edges yet remain tender, absorbing the flavor of the olive oil.

Method 3: Microwaving

Cut the onions into thin strips. Spread the slices evenly on parchment paper on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave the onions for about 10 minutes. Every two minutes, pause and stir to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. The result is crispy, golden onion strips.

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Frequently asked questions about instant pot mujadara

1. Can I use rice instead of bulgur?

Yes, you can substitute bulgur with white rice or brown rice. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly—white rice cooks quickly, while brown rice might need a bit more time.

2. What type of lentils should I use?

Brown or green lentils work best for mujadara. They hold their shape well and create a creamy texture without falling apart.

3. Can I skip the caramelized onions?

You can, but the caramelized onions add a rich, sweet flavor and a little crunch on top that really completes the dish.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store mujadara in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the texture.

5. Can I make it completely oil-free?

Yes, you can sauté the onions in a little water or broth instead of oil. However, using olive oil adds flavor and helps with the caramelization process.

6. Is Instant Pot mujadara gluten-free?

Only if you use rice. Bulgur is a wheat product and contains gluten, so switch to rice for a gluten-free version.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure not to fill the Instant Pot past the maximum fill line, and you may need to adjust cooking time slightly for larger quantities.

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Tips and Tricks for making best instant pot mujadara

• Rinse lentils and grains well to remove starch and improve texture.
• Use the sauté function to build flavor before pressure cooking.
• Quick release carefully to avoid overcooking the lentils.
• Covering the vent with a cloth during quick release helps prevent hot liquid and steam from splattering. It keeps your kitchen cleaner and safer while releasing pressure. Just be careful not to block the vent completely.
• Adjust water depending on how creamy or thick you like it.
• Make caramelized onions ahead and store for easy topping.
• Serve with salad or yogurt for a balanced meal.

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How to store mujadara

Refrigerating:

Let the mujadara cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to help restore its texture.

Freezing:

If you want to store mujadara for a longer period, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave with a bit of water.

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More instant pot recipes to make

middle eastern lentil soup

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Instant pot link

10-in-1 Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Grain Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Sous Vide, Yogurt Maker, Sterilizer, and Warmer.

Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid, 13-in-1 Air Fryer and Pressure Cooker Combo, Sauté, Slow Cook, Bake, Steam, Warm, Roast, Dehydrate, Sous Vide, & Proof.

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