HOW TO PREPARE KOSHARA.

Koshari (also spelled Kushari, Koshary, or Koushari) is a popular traditional Egyptian dish made of rice, lentils, macaroni, and a spicy tomato sauce, usually topped with crispy fried onions. It’s both a street food and a homely comfort dish, providing a hearty and flavorful meal.

Here’s a basic recipe for Koshari:

Ingredients:

Rice:

1 cup of rice (typically medium-grain)
2 cups of water
Salt to taste
1 tbsp oil or butter
Lentils:

1 cup of dried brown lentils
3 cups of water
Macaroni:

1 cup of macaroni or short-cut pasta
Water for boiling
Salt to taste
Tomato Sauce:

1 can (15 oz.) of tomatoes, diced or pureed
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to your liking)
Salt and pepper to taste
1-2 tbsp vinegar (optional)
Fried Onions:

2 onions, thinly sliced
Oil for frying
Instructions:

Rice:

Wash the rice thoroughly until water runs clear.
In a saucepan, heat the oil or butter and add the rice, stirring to coat.
Add water and salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Lentils:

Sort and rinse the lentils.
In a separate pot, bring the lentils and water to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Macaroni:

Cook the macaroni as per the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Tomato Sauce:

In a saucepan, heat the olive oil.
Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Add the tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the sauce thickens. If you prefer, add vinegar for a slight tangy flavor.
Fried Onions:

Heat oil in a frying pan.
Add the thinly sliced onions and fry until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Assembly:

In a large bowl or plate, first layer the rice, then the lentils, followed by the macaroni.
Pour a generous amount of the tomato sauce over the top.
Garnish with crispy fried onions.
Serve hot and enjoy your Koshari!