Discover the flavors of Egypt with this authentic recipe for Koshari. This vegetarian dish is made with a unique combination of lentils, rice, pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with crispy onions. Koshari is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for everyone. With our simple step-by-step instructions, you can easily recreate this traditional Egyptian dish at home. Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors and textures of Koshari!
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 1 cup Egyptian rice
- 1 cup macaroni
- 1 cup canned chickpeas
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil and cook the lentils until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown and crispy. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- In a serving dish, layer the cooked lentils, rice, macaroni, and chickpeas. Pour the tomato sauce over the top and garnish with the crispy onions and chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the authentic flavors of Egyptian Koshari!
Interesting Facts
Koshari is Egypt's national dish, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
It is believed that Koshari originated in the mid-19th century as a cheap and filling meal for Egyptian workers.
The combination of lentils, rice, and pasta makes Koshari a complete source of protein.
Crispy onions are a signature topping of Koshari, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.