published Jan 20, 2023 I’ve experimented with Egyptian cuisine in the past (like Egyptian dukkah and basbousa), but this is my first foray into a truly savory main dish. It came out so good that I knew I needed to share this koshari recipe with you all. It’s hearty, filling, and definitely comforting. Egyptian dishes boast warm flavors and a wide array of textures. This meal, in particular, is such a well-loved comfort food that it’s been deemed Egypt’s national dish! Featuring layer upon layer of flavorful ingredients it tastes — and looks — super impressive. I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I do.
Koshari
Cuisine: Egyptian
INGREDIENT NOTES AND SUBSTITUTIONS
Yellow Onions – The cherry on top of this koshari recipe is the layer of crispy onions that sits on the pasta, rice, and lentils.All-Purpose Flour – To dredge your onions in before frying.Vegetable Oil – Use your preferred oil to fry the onions. You’ll also need it for the sauce.Basmati Rice – I always opt for Basmati rice for its delicate nutty and floral flavors.Lentils – Use green or brown lentils. Make sure to rinse well to remove any debris.Baharat Spice Blend – You’ll need it for the rice, lentils, and tomato and chickpea sauce. I love my homemade version. Elbow Macaroni – This variety of pasta is the perfect size for this dish!Tomato Passata – For the tomato chickpea sauce. Regular tomato sauce is a great substitute.Chickpeas – An excellent source of protein, chickpeas work wonderfully in the tomato sauce.Kosher Salt – For boiling and added flavor.Garlic – For your sauce!Red Wine Vinegar – I love the extra flavor this ingredient brings to the tomato and chickpea sauce. You can also use red grape vinegar instead.Fresh Parsley – For a pop of flavor and color.Shatta Sauce – For serving! Don’t miss my homemade version.Garlic Sauce (Toum) – Also for serving. Check out my recipe here.
Video: Making Koshari
Watch the video in the recipe card at the bottom of the post for step-by-step instructions on how to make this recipe. You’ll also see how to plate it for a gorgeous presentation! Description: Beautifully presented side dish or entree with layers of rice, lentils and macaroni noodles covered in baharat spiced tomato sauce with chickpeas and a topping of crispy fried onions.
HOW TO MAKE EGYPTIAN KOSHARI RECIPE
Serving Koshari
If you have experience turning cakes out onto a platter, plating the koshary should be very easy for you. If not, don’t worry, it’s not difficult, but I recommend watching the video in the recipe card to see exactly how it’s done. Other than some oprional condiments like pickled lemon and shatta hot sauce, there isn’t much else you’ll need to serve with this carb and calorie laden delight. Bring your appetite!
What Country Made Koshari?
As I mentioned, this koshari recipe is Egypt’s national dish! It’s often enjoyed at home or as street food. Made with pasta, rice, lentils, chickpeas, and a tomato and garlic sauce, it’s a carb lovers’ dream!
Why Is Koshari So Popular?
There are many reasons why this koshari recipe is so popular: it’s hearty, filling, and full of delicious flavors. The baharat spice mix adds much, and it truly is a mixture of many different cultures and cuisines. It’s also very inexpensive to make!
Do I Have to Create The Different Layers?
You don’t have to layer the different ingredients as shown — you can simply combine the lentils, macaroni, rice, and tomato chickpea sauce (much like a pasta salad), then serve with the crispy onions on top.
