Ingredients
For the Koshari
- 1 cup rice
- 1 cup brown lentils (or green lentils)
- 1 cup small pasta (like elbow macaroni or ditalini)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish
- 1 large onion, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying the onions)
Directions
Koshari is a beloved Egyptian comfort food that combines the perfect mix of textures and flavors. The dish features a base of rice, brown lentils, and pasta, topped with a savory tomato sauce infused with cumin, coriander, and paprika. The final touch comes from golden, crispy fried onions. It’s a hearty, nutritious, and vegan-friendly meal, making it a popular choice for anyone seeking a satisfying, plant-based dish.
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. Always check specific product labels for more accurate data.
Steps
1 Done | Prepare the Lentils and Rice• Rinse the lentils and place them in a pot with about 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside. • Cook the rice separately according to the package instructions. Set aside. • Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. |
2 Done | Make the Tomato Sauce• Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and golden. • Add the crushed tomatoes, vinegar, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, until thickened. |
3 Done | Prepare the Fried Onions• Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel. |
4 Done | Assemble the Koshari• In a large serving bowl, layer the rice, lentils, and pasta. Pour the tomato sauce over the top, mixing it in gently. • Garnish with the crispy fried onions. |
5 Done | ServingServe the Koshari hot, topped with a drizzle of extra tomato sauce if desired. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of Egyptian-style pickles for added flavor. Enjoy your homemade Koshari! |
