This is the traditional vegetarian option of makhlouta, which means mixture in Lebanese Arabic. It is a hearty dish, loaded with fiber, protein and nutrients.
For a large pot, serves 12:
1 cup chickpeas
1/2 cup corn
1 cup red beans
1 cup lentils (I mixed 2 types of lentils, just go with what you like)
1-2 large onions (mine was huge, so I used only one 😜)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 Knorr veggie stock cube
Spices to taste: I used several types of pepper, freshly ground, and a generous pinch of salt
To note: you can add any kind of beans or grains. Some people also add bulgur and wheat. Just make sure everything is cooked well: cooking times differ from one type to the other.
Start by soaking the different types of beans and grains SEPARATELY in a lot of water: water level should at least be an inch above them. Rinse well and change the water after 6-7 hours. Soak again over night. This process aims to reduce the bloating and flatulence effect of the beans and grains that most of us can suffer from.
Dice and caramelize the onions in the coconut oil. I add a pinch of grated ginger to taste. You can skip this spice if you don’t like it.
Since I use an Instant Pot, which is an electrical pressure cooker, the process is quite simple and super practical: after sautéing the onions in the pot, I add 3 quarts of water and all the drained and well rinsed beans and grains. Then add the spices, peppers and herbs you like. If you don’t have herbs handy, use a veggie stock cube like I did: dilute it well in warm water and add it to the mixture.
Place the cover of the Instant Pot, select the Beans program, set it for around 30 minutes (to avoid an crunchy texture) and just go about your other activities. The pot will turn off and keep the makhlouta warm.
If you are using a regular pot, the process is lengthier but also simple. Add all the beans and grains to the caramelized onions, cover them with water, and let them simmer for several hours to make sure all are well cooked. Be careful not to add the bulgur before the beans and grains are well cooked. And remember, this will make your mixture less liquid. You can replace the bulgur that has been well soaked while the beans and grains were cooking, with some rice (1/2 cup).
5-7 min before turning off the heat under your pot, you can add a large tablespoon of olive oil. Do not stir until you serve. I do not add the olive oil at the end. The servings remain yummy.
Bon appétit 😋
