Authentic Mujadara Recipe {Lebanese Lentils and Rice}

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1. 1Step 1: In a medium bowl, cover the rice with cold water. Set aside.
2. 2Step 2: Line a plate with two paper towels. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring constantly, until the onions are deeply browned and start to crisp around the edges, about 20 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to the plate and set aside. They will continue to crisp as they cool. Reserve the oil from cooking the onions.
3. 3Step 3: Add the lentils to another pot, add water and stir to combine. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for 15 minutes.
4. 4Step 4: Drain the soaked rice, rinse and transfer it to the pot with the lentils along with the salt. Stir once, then cover again with a tight-fitting lid and cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.
5. 5Step 5: Remove the pot from the heat. Rest, covered, for 5 minutes longer. Add the cumin and fluff the rice and lentils with a fork to combine.
6. 6Step 6: Pour the reserved oil on top of the mujadara. Then spoon the crispy onions on top. Serve warm, with cucumber yogurt sauce if desired.