Egyptian vegan koshari: A comfort food recipe
Koshari, a cherished dish from Egypt, combines lentils, rice, and pasta with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions. Its roots date back to the 19th century, showcasing Egypt's extensive culinary history. This vegan meal mirrors the diverse flavors of Egyptian cuisine. Ideal for those seeking Middle Eastern comfort food, koshari is both hearty and satisfying. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
For this dish, gather one cup each of brown lentils, medium-grain rice, and small pasta. You'll also need two large onions, three tablespoons of cooking oil, and salt. The sauce requires two cups of tomato puree, two minced garlic cloves, one teaspoon each of cumin and paprika, half a teaspoon of chili powder (adjust for taste), more salt, and water as needed.
Preparing the base components
Start by cooking the lentils in boiling water until tender yet firm, about 20-25 minutes. In separate pots, cook the rice and pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain all three components well after cooking. This step lays down the foundation for our koshari by preparing its main ingredients separately, ensuring each element retains its distinct texture.
Crafting the spicy tomato sauce
For the sauce, heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and saute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in tomato puree along with cumin, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Let it simmer on low heat for about ten to 15 minutes until it thickens slightly. If necessary, add water to reach your desired consistency.
Combining ingredients together
In a large skillet or pot, heat two tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Fry the onions until golden brown and crispy. Remove half for garnishing. In the skillet with the remaining onions, add the cooked lentils, rice, and pasta. Stir gently to mix well, ensuring the components are evenly distributed. This step combines the core elements of koshari, blending their flavors and textures.
Serving your koshari
To serve, first layer the koshari base into bowls. Then, top each with a generous amount of spicy tomato sauce. Finally, sprinkle the reserved crispy onions on top. Enjoy this traditional Egyptian vegan feast. It is designed to warm hearts and fill stomachs with every bite. This dish is a celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for any meal.
