Three Middle Eastern comfort meals to try this week

Did you know Cypriot cuisine intermingles with more Middle Eastern flavours than those of Greece? The dish Mujendra is a great example of this. This lentil, rice and onion dish is known as Mujendra in Cyprus, but it's also known as Mujadarah or Mejadra in the Middle East. This meal is served regularly in these cultures, usually as a side with Greek yogurt or as a quick and easy family meal. It's inexpensive, nutritious, and incredibly versatile. Food stylist Irene Matys shared her traditional recipe, along with two of her unique takes on this hearty and flavourful meal. 

Basic mujendra

This versatile meal with the staples of rice, green lentils, and sweet onions, can be transformed in any way you'd like. Plus, you can serve with salads for dinner, additional grains, or topped with a fried egg for lunch. 

Baked mujendra and halloumi arancini with fresh mint and cucumber yogurt dip 

A twist on this classic dish served with the perfect dip! Bake this dish of rice, lentils and onions, along with cheesy halloumi and dip these bites of flavour in this fresh mint and cucumber yogurt dip. 

Lemony mujendra soup

Stay warm and refreshed all winter long with this hearty meal. Made with rice, green lentils and sweet onions, lemon juice and celery, you'll love how easy this soup is to make, and how flavourful it can get using minimal ingredients.