Discover how to make Koushary, a beloved Egyptian dish featuring a hearty blend of rice, lentils, pasta, and a savory tomato sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions. This comforting and flavorful recipe is a staple in Egyptian cuisine, perfect for a satisfying meal. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this delicious and nutritious dish at home.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup rice

- 1 cup brown lentils

- 1 cup short pasta (like elbow macaroni)

- 2 cups tomato sauce

- 1 large onion, thinly sliced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 teaspoon cumin

- 1 teaspoon coriander

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Lentils:

  - Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a pot, cover the lentils with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Rice:

  - Rinse the rice under cold water. In a separate pot, cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set aside.

Cook the Pasta:

  - In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

  - In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Fry the Onions:

  - In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Koushary:

  - In a large serving dish, layer the rice, lentils, and pasta. Pour the tomato sauce over the top. Garnish with the fried onions and chopped parsley if desired.

Serve:

  - Serve the Koushary warm, and enjoy this classic Egyptian comfort food!

Nutritional Values

Rice (1 cup)

   - Calories: 205 kcal

   - Protein: 4.3g

   - Fat: 0.4g

   - Carbohydrates: 44.6g

   - Fiber: 0.6g

Benefits:

   - Provides energy: A good source of carbohydrates for energy.

   - Versatile: Can be paired with various ingredients.

Brown Lentils (1 cup)

   - Calories: 230 kcal

   - Protein: 18g

   - Fat: 0.8g

   - Carbohydrates: 39g

   - Fiber: 16g

Benefits:

   - High in Protein: Great plant-based protein source.

   - Fiber: Supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

   - Iron: Important for oxygen transport in the blood.

Short Pasta (1 cup, like elbow macaroni)

   - Calories: 220 kcal

   - Protein: 7g

   - Fat: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 43g

   - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

   - Carbohydrates: Provides quick energy.

   - Protein: Contributes to muscle repair and growth.

Tomato Sauce (2 cups)

   - Calories: 70 kcal

   - Protein: 2g

   - Fat: 0.5g

   - Carbohydrates: 14g

   - Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

   - Vitamins: High in vitamins A and C.

   - Antioxidants: Contains lycopene, which may help reduce inflammation.

Onion (1 large, thinly sliced)

   - Calories: 44 kcal

   - Protein: 1g

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 10g

   - Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

   - Antioxidants: Contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.

   - Flavor: Adds sweetness and depth.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

   - Calories: 8 kcal

   - Protein: 0.4g

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits:

   - Immune Support: Contains compounds that support immune function.

   - Flavor: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

   - Calories: 120 kcal

   - Fat: 14g

   - Saturated Fat: 2g

Benefits:

   - Healthy Fats: Provides essential fats needed for cooking.

   - Flavor: Adds richness to the dish.

Cumin (1 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 8 kcal

   - Protein: 0.4g

   - Fat: 0.4g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

   - Digestive Health: May aid digestion and reduce bloating.

   - Flavor: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.

Coriander (1 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 5 kcal

   - Protein: 0.2g

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

   - Antioxidants: Contains compounds that may help with inflammation.

   - Flavor: Adds a mild, citrusy flavor.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

   - Calories: 6 kcal

   - Protein: 0.3g

   - Fat: 0.3g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

   - Antioxidants: Rich in vitamin A and antioxidants.

   - Flavor: Adds a mild heat and color.

Salt and Pepper (to taste)

   - Calories: 0 kcal

   - Sodium: 2,300 mg

Nutritional Values (per teaspoon black pepper):

   - Calories: 6 kcal

   - Protein: 0.3g

   - Fat: 0.3g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

   - Salt: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation.

   - Pepper: Adds spice and may aid digestion.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional)

   - Calories: 1 kcal

   - Protein: 0.1g

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0.2g

Benefits:

   - Vitamins: Provides vitamins A, C, and K.

   - Flavor: Adds a fresh, herbal note.

This combination of ingredients offers a balanced dish with a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and flavors.