Middle Eastern Spread With Lentils Peas Recipes

LENTILS AND RICE WITH FRIED ONIONS (MUJADARRAH)

Steps:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onions, and cook about 10 minutes, until browned. Remove from heat, and set aside.
• Place lentils in a medium saucepan with enough lightly salted water to cover. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer about 15 minutes.
• Stir rice and enough water to cover into the saucepan with the lentils. Season with salt and pepper. Cover saucepan, and continue to simmer 15 to 20 minutes, until rice and lentils are tender.
• Mix half the onions into the lentil mixture. Top with yogurt or sour cream and remaining onions to serve.

MIDDLE EASTERN SPREAD WITH LENTILS & PEAS

Steps:

• Cook lentils and split peas in a large pot of boiling salted water until very tender, about 35 minutes. Drain.
• Heat 1/3 cup oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and saute until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add turmeric and cumin and stir 1 minute. Transfer mixture to processor (or bowl for use of immersion blender). Add lentils and split peas, celery leaves, lemon juice, chili powderand remaining 3 tbsps of oil. Process until smooth. Season generously (to taste) with salt and pepper.
• Transfer to serving bowl. Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before serving. Serve with pita bread.