Kushari

kushari

Kushari is a popular Egyptian street food that dates back to the 19th century. This dish has remained a staple food in Egypt because it is inexpensive and delicious. Kushari is made up of a mixture of lentils, rice, pasta, and a zesty tomato sauce, topped with caramelized onions and crispy fried garlic. The dish is typically served with additional spices and vinegar on the side, making it a tasty and filling meal that is perfect for any time of the day.

The origins of Kushari are unclear, but it is believed to have started in the late 1800s during the British occupation of Egypt. Kushari was created as a result of the combination of different cultural influences in Egypt. The dish is said to have been inspired by Indian cuisine, as well as traditional Egyptian dishes like koshari and ful medames. Today, the dish has become a symbol of national pride in Egypt and is enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

Kushari is made up of four main components: lentils, rice, pasta, and tomato sauce. The rice and pasta are cooked separately, while the lentils are simmered until they are tender. The tomato sauce is made by frying onions, garlic, and spices in oil, then adding tomatoes and letting the sauce simmer until it is thick and zesty. The lentils, rice, and pasta are then mixed together and topped with the tomato sauce, caramelized onions, and crispy fried garlic.

The lentils used in Kushari are usually brown or green, although red lentils can also be used. The lentils are a great source of protein and are perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a healthy meal. The rice used in the dish is typically long-grain white rice, but brown rice can also be used for added nutrition. The pasta used in Kushari is typically elbow macaroni or small shells, but any type of small pasta can be used as a substitute.

The tomato sauce used in Kushari is what gives the dish its characteristic flavor. The sauce is made up of onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, and chili powder, and the sauce is simmered until it is thick and zesty. The tomato sauce can also be made using canned tomatoes, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare.

Kushari is typically served with additional spices and vinegar on the side. The spices can include cumin, coriander, and chili powder, while the vinegar is usually made from red wine or white vinegar. The spices and vinegar are used to enhance the flavor of the dish and give it a bit of a kick.

Overall, Kushari is a delicious and filling dish that is enjoyed by many people in Egypt and around the world. Its history and cultural significance make it a dish that is both interesting and delicious. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy meal or you are searching for a taste of Egypt, Kushari is a dish that should be on your menu. Finally, it is a perfect meal that can be enjoyed by everyone as it is vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and nut-free.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups brown lentils
  • 1 cup white rice
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Water

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the lentils and place them in a pot with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover with a lid. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

  2. Rinse the rice and place in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover with a lid. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

  3. In another pot, cook the macaroni according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  4. In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring frequently. Remove from pan.

  5. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan and heat over medium heat. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt and pepper, and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).

  6. Add the tomato sauce, stir, and cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  7. Add the cooked lentils, chickpeas, and caramelized onions to the tomato sauce. Stir and cook for 5 minutes over medium heat.

  8. To serve, place a layer of rice in a serving dish, followed by a layer of macaroni, and finally a layer of lentil mixture on top. Repeat the layers until the dish is full.