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Koshari, often hailed as Egypt's national dish, is a delicious and hearty meal that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Egyptian cuisine. This dish is a delightful melange of flavors and textures, combining staple ingredients such as lentils, rice, macaroni, and a tangy tomato sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Koshari is not just a dish; it's a cultural experience that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Its significance in everyday Egyptian life cannot be overstated, as it represents comfort food at its finest, often enjoyed by families and street vendors alike.

Traditional Egyptian Koshari

Discover the rich flavors of Egypt with this Koshari Delight recipe! This traditional dish combines hearty brown lentils, fluffy rice, and tender macaroni, all topped with a fragrant tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It's a comforting, filling meal that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With vibrant spices like cumin and paprika, this recipe will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Perfect for anyone looking to explore new cuisines!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup brown lentils

1 cup rice (preferably medium-grain)

1 cup macaroni (elbow or small shells)

1 large onion, sliced thin

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 tablespoons vinegar (white or apple cider)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Lentils: Rinse the brown lentils in cold water. In a pot, add 3 cups of water and the rinsed lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

    Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, add the rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice absorbs all the water. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

      Boil the Macaroni: In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

        Fry the Onions: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

          Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, paprika, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.

            Combine and Layer: In a large serving dish or individual bowls, layer the koshari: start with a layer of rice, followed by lentils, then macaroni. Pour the tomato sauce over the top and finish with the crispy fried onions.

              Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and freshness. Koshari can be served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious traditional Egyptian meal!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6