Egypt • Africa • medium • 80 mins
Egypt Koshari
Description
Koshari is a beloved Egyptian street food that combines rice, lentils, and pasta, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. This dish is significant as it represents the fusion of various culinary influences in Egypt and is a staple of everyday life, enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 1 cup small pasta (such as elbow macaroni)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Water as needed
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils and cook them in a pot with 3 cups of water until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pot, cook the rice in 2 cups of water with a pinch of salt until fluffy, about 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and fry the sliced onions until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute. Then add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- To assemble, layer rice, lentils, and pasta on a plate. Top with the tomato sauce and crispy onions. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450 per serving
Servings: 4
Dietary: gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian
⚠️ Allergens: gluten
Health Benefits
Koshari is a nutrient-dense dish, rich in plant-based protein from brown lentils and carbohydrates from rice and pasta, providing sustained energy. The dish is high in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management. The inclusion of spices like cumin and coriander offers anti-inflammatory properties, while the tomatoes provide antioxidants, supporting heart health. Being vegan and gluten-free, Koshari is suitable for a variety of dietary needs, making it a wholesome choice for both traditional and modern diets.
Cultural Significance
Koshari is often referred to as Egypt’s national dish and reflects the country’s diverse culinary heritage, incorporating influences from Italian, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is commonly sold by street vendors and is a symbol of Egyptian hospitality and communal dining.
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