Assyrian Green Lentils and Rice

Begin by placing the lentils into a pot, followed by covering them with water. Next, bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat for 5 minutes, then cover and take it off the heat. At the same time, rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the rice for approximately 1 minute, until it turns opaque and white. Then add the lentils and water to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil, after which cover it and lower the heat to medium-low for 5 minutes. Stir once more, then cover and reduce the heat even further to low. Continue cooking, covered, until the rice is tender, taking around 20 minutes in total.

During this time, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the onion to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until it has softened and turned translucent, taking about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking and stirring until the onion is very tender and dark brown, which may take anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes more.

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the caramelized onion and season with salt to taste.