Koshari Profile

A symphony of rice, pasta, and lentils, the flavor that brings Egypt together.

About

Koshari (also spelled Kushari) is Egypt’s most beloved national dish and consists of a delightful combination of rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas layered with spicy tomato sauce and fried onions and topped with garlic, vinegar dressing. It is one such dish that symbolizes Egypt’s diversity, easy to make and accessible to all. The history of koshari stretches to the 19th century when Egypt was opened to international trade.

The Egyptians are famous for their inventiveness in the culinary arena and managed to mix all these components in one bowl—indeed an amalgamation of international tastes with an Egyptian essence. Koshari has since then represented unity and identity in every corner from street vendors to restaurants.

    Ingredients:

  1. 1 cup brown lentils
  2. 1 cup rice
  3. 1 cup small pasta (like macaroni)
  4. 1 can chickpeas
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1/4 cup tomato paste
  7. 2 tbsp vinegar
  8. 1 tsp chili powder
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. Oil for frying and cooking

Instructions:

Brown lentils are going to be cooked till they become tender. Rice is going to be prepared with a little oil and salt, and small pasta will be boiled until soft. Chickpeas are going to be warmed up and set aside. For the sauce, fry the garlic in oil, add the tomato paste, water, vinegar, chili, and simmer until it thickens. Onions sliced are going to be fried until they become crispy. Serving is done by layering rice, lentils, and pasta, adding chickpeas, topping with the tomato sauce, drizzling garlic-vinegar if you like, and finishing it off with the crispy fried onions.

To serve, layer rice, lentils, and pasta, add chickpeas, top with tomato sauce, and finish with crispy fried onions.

Resturants

Abou Tarek

One of the most famous koshari restaurants in Cairo, known for its authentic taste and bustling atmosphere.

El Tahrir Koshary

A popular spot offering a modern twist on traditional koshari, with a variety of toppings and sauces.

Koshary El Prince

Known for its generous portions and flavorful koshari, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.