Mujadara Safra / Adas (Jordanian Golden Cumin Lentil & Rice Pilaf with Crispy Onions & Yogurt) – Authentic Jordan Recipe

Ingredients for Mujadara Safra / Adas (Jordanian Golden Cumin Lentil & Rice Pilaf with Crispy Onions & Yogurt) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) brown or yellow lentils and basmati rice, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups mountains of dark crispy onion rings, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup cool cucumber-mint yogurt
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with toasted cumin seeds
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Jordan seasoning (coriander, turmeric, olive oil)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat; sauté the onion, garlic, and toasted cumin seeds until golden.
2. Add coriander, turmeric, olive oil along with brown or yellow lentils and basmati rice and mountains of dark crispy onion rings, searing for 4–5 minutes to build savory depth.
3. Stir in the rinsed grains/rice so every grain is coated in the spiced oil, then pour in warm stock.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly with a lid, and cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and tender.
5. Rest off the heat for 5 minutes, fluff gently with a fork, and garnish with cool cucumber-mint yogurt.