How to Make Koushari

 How to Make Koushari: A Step-by-Step Guide to Egypt’s National Dish

Koushari, also known as Koshari or Kushari, is a beloved Egyptian dish that offers a hearty and flavorful experience. It’s a vegan meal that combines lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and a tangy tomato sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients:

• Rice: Preferably Egyptian rice or Calrose short-grain rice.
• Brown Lentils: For the authentic Koushari experience.
• Pasta: Traditional Koushari uses white pasta, but whole wheat is a healthier alternative.
• Chickpeas: Dried chickpeas are recommended, but canned can be used for convenience.
• Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes like Roma or on the vine are ideal.
• Tomato Paste: Any type will do.
• Onions: Any variety, for frying and for the sauces.
• Garlic: Freshly minced.
• White Vinegar: Distilled white vinegar is preferred.
• Spices: Ground cumin, coriander, chili powder, and a pinch of crushed red pepper.
• Oil: Sunflower oil is great for frying onions.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crispy Fried Onions: Thinly slice the onions and fry them in sunflower oil until they are crispy and golden brown. Set aside on paper towels to drain.

2. Cook the Lentils: Rinse the brown lentils and cook them in water with a pinch of salt until tender but not mushy.

3. Make the Rice: Cook the rice with a bit of the spice mix and water until fluffy.

4. Boil the Pasta: Cook your pasta of choice until al dente.

5. Prepare the Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak overnight and boil until tender. Canned chickpeas can be rinsed and used directly.

6. Blend the Fresh Tomato Sauce: Combine fresh tomatoes, garlic, and spices in a blender until smooth.

7. Cook the Vinegary Tomato Sauce: In a pan, heat some oil and cook minced garlic, then add tomato paste, vinegar, and spices. Simmer until thickened.

8. Assemble the Koushari: In a large serving dish, layer the rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas. Pour the fresh tomato sauce and the vinegary tomato sauce over the top. Finish with a generous topping of crispy fried onions.

9. Serve and Enjoy: Koushari is best enjoyed hot and can be served with additional vinegar and hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.

This dish is perfect for batch cooking and meal prepping as it reheats well. The blend of textures and flavors makes Koushari a satisfying meal that’s sure to please a crowd. Enjoy your homemade Koushari!

Remember, the key to a great Koushari is in the layers and the balance of flavors from the sauces and the crispy onions. Don’t rush the process, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Bon appétit!