Feast on Cairo's Comfort, a heartwarming bowl of Koshari, Egypt's beloved street food symphony. This dish is a textural mosaic composed of tender lentils, rice, and macaroni, each grain and noodle soaking up the flavors of a rich, spiced tomato sauce. Crowned with golden, crispy onions that add a crunch in every bite, this Koshari recipe invites you into the bustling streets of Cairo with its comforting layers and depth of flavor.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings
- Yields: 4 servings
- Ideal Serving Size: 1 heaping bowl per serving
Nutritional Information per Serving
- Calories: Approximately 550 kcal
- Protein: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 100 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Fiber: 8 grams
- Sugar: 8 grams
Ingredients
- Medium-grain rice: 200 grams
- Brown lentils: 150 grams
- Macaroni pasta: 150 grams
- Cumin: 5 grams
- Crispy fried onions: 50 grams
- Olive oil: 30 ml
- Tomato sauce:Fresh tomatoes, pureed: 400 grams
- Garlic, minced: 15 grams
- Cumin: 2 grams
- Chili powder: 2 grams
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method of Preparation
- Cook lentils in boiling water until tender, then drain.
- Cook rice with cumin until fluffy and cook macaroni until al dente; set both aside.
- In a pan, heat olive oil, and sauté garlic, then add tomato puree and spices.
- Simmer the sauce until it thickens.
- Combine rice, lentils, and pasta in a serving dish.
- Top with the spiced tomato sauce and crispy onions.
Culinary Success Tips
- Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
- For crispy onions, slice them thinly and fry in hot oil until they are a deep golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Anticipated FAQs
- Can I use canned lentils? Yes, but adjust the cooking time as they are already cooked.
- How can I make this gluten-free? Use rice or corn pasta instead of macaroni.
- Is Koshari served hot or cold? It is traditionally served hot but can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.
