Koshari

Koshari is Egypt’s national dish and my absolute favorite! It’s hearty, comforting, affordable, and full of flavor. It’s a complete meal loved by everyone in Egypt.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people)

For the base:

• 1 cup rice

• 1 cup brown lentils

• 1 cup elbow pasta (or small macaroni)

• 1 cup chickpeas (canned or boiled)

For the sauce:

• 4-5 ripe tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)

• 1 large onion (finely chopped)

• 4-5 garlic cloves (minced)

• 2 tbsp vinegar

• Spices: cumin, salt, black pepper, chili flakes

For topping:

• 2-3 large onions (thinly sliced and fried until crispy golden)

• Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

How to Make Koshari (Step-by-Step)

Prepare the lentils — Boil lentils with cumin and salt until soft (15-20 mins).

Cook the rice — Cook rice separately with a bit of cumin.

Cook the pasta — Boil elbow pasta until al dente.

Make the tomato sauce — Sauté onions and garlic, add tomatoes, spices, and a splash of vinegar. Simmer until thick and rich.

Fry the onions — Slice onions thinly and fry in oil until deep golden and crispy (this is the best part!).

Assemble — In a big serving dish, layer rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas. Pour the spicy tomato sauce on top and crown it with plenty of crispy fried onions.

Serve hot with extra sauce on the side and maybe some pickled vegetables or salad.