🍲 **Koshari 🇪🇬**

Koshari is Egypt's beloved national dish, a hearty and flavorful vegan delight that combines rice, lentils, macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions. This dish is not only satisfying but also a perfect introduction to Egyptian cuisine.

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🌍 **What Is Koshari?**

Koshari is a traditional Egyptian dish that reflects the country's diverse culinary influences. It is a comforting mix of carbohydrates and spices, making it a staple in Egyptian households. Often enjoyed as street food, Koshari is a filling meal that brings people together.

🧾 **Ingredients**

**Base:**

- 3 yellow onions (2 small, 1 large)

- Olive oil

- Sea salt

- Black pepper

- 1 cup long grain rice

- 2 cups water (or enough to cover rice)

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 cup brown lentils

- 24 oz tomato sauce

- 1 teaspoon oregano leaves

- 8 ounces elbow macaroni

- 1 tablespoon flour

**Optional:**

- Additional spices to taste

👩‍🍳 **Step-by-Step Instructions**

1. **Prepare the Onions**

- Dice all three yellow onions, setting aside the large one for later.

2. **Cook the Rice and Lentils**

- In a medium-sized wok, add a splash of olive oil.

- Sauté one small diced onion until it begins to brown.

- Season with sea salt and black pepper.

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- Add 1 cup of long grain rice and mix well.

- Pour in about 2 cups of water, ensuring it rises 1/2 inch above the rice.

- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin and 1 cup of brown lentils.

- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

- Simmer for 45 minutes.

3. **Prepare the Tomato Sauce**

- In a separate pan, heat olive oil and add the second small diced onion.

- Sauté until browned, then add 1 teaspoon of ground coriander.

- Mix well and pour in 24 oz of tomato sauce.

- Add 1 cup of water to the sauce, shake to combine, and stir in 1 teaspoon of oregano.

- Keep the sauce at a low simmer.

4. **Cook the Elbow Macaroni**

- Cook 8 ounces of elbow macaroni according to package instructions.

5. **Fry the Last Onion**

- In a pan, add 1 tablespoon of flour to the diced large onion and mix.

- Fry the onion until it is browned and crispy, then remove from heat.

6. **Assemble the Koshari**

- Once the rice and lentils are cooked, gently mix them.

- In a serving bowl, create a crater in the center of the rice and lentils.

- Fill the crater with elbow macaroni.

- Pour the tomato sauce over the top and finish with the crispy fried onions.

🍽️ **How to Serve**

Serve Koshari warm, garnished with additional fried onions if desired. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.

💡 **Pro Tips**

- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a sprinkle of chili powder to the sauce.

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- Make sure to keep an eye on the fried onions to prevent burning; they should be golden brown and crispy.

🔥 **Why You’ll Love This**

Koshari is not only delicious and filling, but it also showcases the vibrant flavors of Egyptian cuisine. Its combination of textures and tastes makes it a unique dish that is sure to impress family and friends. Plus, being vegan, it caters to a wide range of dietary preferences! Enjoy this delightful dish and experience a taste of Egypt in your own kitchen.