Serving Suggestions

If you’re wondering what to serve with this recipe, I’ve pulled together some of my (and my kids) favorite ideas so you can mix and match sides and drinks to make a complete meal.

What to eat with Mejadra

I usually make this when I am making Shawarma meatloaf or Shawarma Chicken Skewers. it is also great with lamb koftas, spiced meatballs, or a slow cooked leg of lamb.

You could serve it alongside a roast chicken, especially if you have rubbed the skin with some ground coriander and paprika before roasting.

For something lightly, try pairing it with a piece of grilled fish. This is great with a sprinkle of fresh mint and a squeeze of lemon.

If you want to keep it vegetarian, it is excellent on its own with just a drizzle of yogurt, but a side of roasted eggplant would be fantastic, or grilled bell peppers.

What to drink with Mejadra

I love this with a crispy herbal Vermentino. It pairs well with the earthy flavors of the dish. Harder to find but equally delicious is an Albariño, which is a Spanish wine with citrus and saline notes, great for balancing Mejadra’s warm spices. If you are serving the Mejadra with grilled meats, a full-boded Roussanne with stone fruit and herbal notes perfect.

For red wine drinkers a light-bodied Pinot Noir with bright acidity is an excellent match to the lentils and spices. Or try a fruity, soft Grenache. While harder to find a French Trousseau is an aromatic red with a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the cumin and coriander in the spice mix.