Mjaddara with Rice and Sweet Potatoes

This is a favorite in Jordan and used all the time.  There are many variations for this delicious meal including adding sweet potatoes.  I tried this out one day when I had extra sweet potatoes and to this day, it is my favorite.  This meal is very easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils
• 6 cups water
• 1/2 cup rice
• 1 medium onion diced
• 1 medium sweet potato, chopped
• 2 tablespoons virgin olive oil - not extra virgin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

1. Wash the lentils well and place them in a heavy bottom sauepan along with the water.
2. Bring to boil and cook for an hour and half or till they are soft and done.  Add the oil to a small frying pan and then saute' the sweet potatoes and onions.
3. Add the rice to the lentils along with the onions and sweet potatoes.  Add in the salt and pepper.
4. Cover the pan and cook for another 20 minutes or until the rice is done and the water is absorbed.  Be careful not to burn the meal.
5. Serve this meal with yogurt and cucumbers.