Long-grain rice cooked in a reduced tomato-pepper base with peas and carrots.
Real food photography · Serving details may varyEgyptian koshari-inspired
Rice, lentil & pasta koshari
A layered bowl of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and tangy tomato sauce.
◷ 50 minutes*Serves 2Plant-based
A simplified home-cooking adaptation. *Timing is an estimate; this recipe has not yet been kitchen-tested.
RECIPE DECISION NOTES
Is this the right meal for today?
Koshari brings several inexpensive staples together, but inexpensive does not mean effortless. This small home adaptation needs multiple pans or careful sequencing: lentils, rice, pasta, onions, and sauce finish separately. Choose it when you want a more involved preparation than a one-pot soup and already have several of the dry staples.
Plan the method before you start
Start the lentils first and check the rice and pasta packet times before heating their pans. Brown onions slowly rather than burning the edges for speed. Drain the separate components and assemble close to serving so the pasta stays distinct. Brown lentils hold their shape better here than red lentils. The vinegar belongs in the tomato sauce; additional hot sauce is a personal serving choice rather than a required ingredient.
Published by MealWhirl · Preparation guidance from the listed method, not a cooking-test report. Editorial standards & corrections ↗
Make something good
- 01
Simmer lentils in plenty of water for 20–25 minutes until tender, then drain. In a second pan cook rice according to its packet.
- 02
While grains cook, slowly fry sliced onion in oil for 15–20 minutes until deep golden, stirring often. Lift onions out and reserve.
- 03
Add garlic and cumin to remaining oil for 30 seconds. Add tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Add vinegar and season with salt and optional chili.
- 04
Cook pasta according to its packet and drain. Warm chickpeas in a little water, then drain. Layer rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas in bowls, add tomato sauce, and top with onions.
A little room to make it yours.
Season to your taste and check ingredient labels, including stocks, sauces, and bread. Dietary labels describe this listed recipe; they do not verify packaged products or allergen safety.
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A few more good possibilities.
Brown lentils and rice topped with slowly browned onions and a little cumin.
Warm fava beans lightly mashed with cumin, lemon, garlic, and olive oil.