Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Mujadara

This comforting and hearty Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Mujadara brings together earthy lentils, bulgur wheat, and the warming aroma of cumin, all topped with crispy onions and a dollop of creamy yogurt. It’s the kind of dish that feels humble but delivers big flavor and texture. I made it as a midweek dinner, and it quickly became a new favorite. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 large onions
• 2 heaped tablespoons cumin seeds
• 150g dried brown lentils
• 150g bulgur wheat
• 4 tablespoons natural yoghurt

How To Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Mujadara:

1. Fry the Crispy Onions: In a small sturdy pan, pour in 2cm of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Peel and finely slice one of the onions, then deep-fry the slices in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. You’ll know the oil is hot enough when a piece of onion sizzles and floats—or use a thermometer and aim for 180°C.
2. Cook the Second Onion with Cumin: Peel and finely chop the second onion. In a large non-stick frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and the cumin seeds, and sauté for about 10 minutes until the onion becomes soft and sweet, and the cumin is fragrant.
3. Simmer Lentils and Bulgur: Add the brown lentils and bulgur wheat to the pan along with 1.2 litres of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook gently for about 25 minutes, or until both the lentils and bulgur are tender and the water is nearly absorbed. Stir occasionally and add a splash more water if it starts to look dry. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble and Serve: Stir half of the crispy onions into the mujadara. Divide between plates or bowls, top each serving with a generous spoonful of natural yoghurt, and scatter over the rest of the crispy onions for texture and flavor. Serve immediately while everything is warm and delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

Mujadara is one of those dishes that’s so simple yet so comforting. The cumin-scented lentils and grains feel earthy and wholesome, while the crispy onions give that irresistible crunch. Add a spoonful of cool, creamy yoghurt and it’s just magic. It’s easy, affordable, and perfect for any night of the week.

Recipe Tips

• Go for crispy onions: Fry them yourself or use store-bought for ease—they’re essential for crunch.
• Simmer gently: Low, slow cooking helps the lentils and bulgur absorb the flavors and cook evenly.
• Taste and season at the end: A little salt goes a long way in enhancing the earthy flavor of the grains and lentils.
• Don’t skip the yoghurt: It balances the spices and adds creaminess to the dish.
• Make it ahead: Mujadara keeps well and can be reheated easily for lunch or dinner the next day.

How To Store Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Mujadara

• In the Fridge: Let mujadara cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store the crispy onions separately to keep them crunchy.
• Freezing : Yes! Mujadara freezes well. Spoon into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating : Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of water or stock to bring it back to life. Stir regularly until warmed through. Add the yogurt and crispy onions just before serving.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Is mujadara vegan?
  Yes, if you skip the yoghurt or use a dairy-free alternative, it’s completely vegan.
• Can I use green lentils instead of brown?
  Definitely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed—green lentils tend to cook a little faster.
• Can I swap bulgur for rice?
  Absolutely. Rice is more traditional in some mujadara recipes. Cook it as you would the bulgur.
• Are pre-made crispy onions okay?
  Totally. They’re a great time-saver and still give the perfect crunch.
• Is this dish spicy?
  Not at all! It’s warmly spiced from the cumin but not hot. You can always add chili flakes if you like heat.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 408 kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2.7g
• Protein: 15.5g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Sugars: 7.9g
• Salt: 0.1g
• Fibre: 8.1g

Try More Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Recipes:

• 5 Ingredients Potato Bombas
• 5 Ingredients Stuffed Squash
• 5 Ingredients Smoky Tender Aubergine