Koshary, also spelled Kushari, is a traditional Egyptian dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This hearty, vegan meal combines rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and a tangy tomato sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions. If you’re wondering how to cook Koshary, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through each step to create this delicious and satisfying dish at home.
To cook Koshary, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Rice and Lentils:
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 1 cup medium-grain rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Pasta:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni or small pasta
- For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (28 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Crispy Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced into rings
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- Salt
- For the Chickpeas:
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Instructions
- Prepare the Lentils and Rice:
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and place them in a pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- In another pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and salt, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Tomato Sauce:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown. Add the minced garlic, ground coriander, and crushed red pepper flakes, and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Add the white vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Prepare the Crispy Onions:
- Toss the onion rings in flour, shaking off any excess. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the onions in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
- Assemble the Koshary:
- In a large serving dish, layer the rice and lentils, followed by the pasta. Top with the chickpeas and pour the tomato sauce over the top. Finally, sprinkle the crispy onions over the dish.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Koshary hot, with extra tomato sauce and crispy onions on the side. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with family and friends.
Tips for Cooking Koshary
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your Koshary.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the lentils, rice, and tomato sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble and heat the dish just before serving.
Learning how to cook Koshary is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of Egypt to your kitchen. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, Koshary is sure to impress.
By following this guide on how to cook Koshary, you’ll master the art of making this iconic Egyptian dish. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of your homemade Koshary!