Caramelized Onions:

• 4 large onions, white or yellow
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon vinegar, apple cider or balsamic

Other Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, green or brown
• 1/2 cup basmati rice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 4 scallions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed or grated
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional)
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional)