Koushari is a delightful dish deeply rooted in Coptic cooking, renowned for its wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors. Originating as a staple in Egyptian cuisine, this recipe has evolved to become a beloved family dinner option, perfect for both casual meals and gatherings alike. The addition of crushed chili flakes and Parmesan cheese offers a modern twist, elevating its taste profile with a hint of spice and richness.
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 onions
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 4 cups water (divided)
- 1 cup rice
- 1 cup macaroni
- 1 can (approximately 15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 736.5
- Total Fat: 15.8g
- Saturated Fat: 2.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 248.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 125.2g
- Fiber: 23.5g
- Sugars: 13.7g
- Protein: 26g
Recipe Instructions
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Prepare the Tomato Onion Mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add Garlic:
- Once onions are caramelized, add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
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Incorporate Tomato Puree:
- Pour in the tomato puree, stirring well to combine with the onions and garlic. Allow it to simmer gently while preparing other ingredients.
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Cook Lentils:
- In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add brown lentils and cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes or until lentils are tender yet firm to the bite. Drain any excess water if necessary.
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Cook Rice:
- In another pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
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Prepare Macaroni:
- Cook macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions, usually about 6-7 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl or serving dish, combine the cooked lentils, rice, and macaroni. Mix well to blend the textures.
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Add Chickpeas and Tomato Onion Mixture:
- Gently fold in the drained chickpeas into the mixture of lentils, rice, and macaroni. Then, pour in the tomato onion mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
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Season and Serve:
- Season the Koushari with salt and pepper according to taste preferences. Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional crushed chili flakes and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Recipe Notes
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Variations: Feel free to customize this dish by adjusting the spice level with more chili flakes or adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
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Storage: Koushari can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain its texture and flavors.
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Health Benefits: This dish is packed with fiber from lentils, chickpeas, and whole grains (rice and macaroni), making it a satisfying option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based protein and nutrients into their diet. It is also low in cholesterol and provides a substantial amount of energy from complex carbohydrates.
Enjoy preparing and sharing this hearty Koushari recipe, a testament to the rich culinary traditions that bring families together around the table. Whether served as a main course for lunch or a hearty snack, its robust flavors and nutritional benefits are sure to please everyone at your table.
