Koshari: Egypt’s Comfort Food That Feeds a Crowd for Pennies

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If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed meal that won’t break the bank, meet Koshari – Egypt’s beloved comfort food that’s loaded with pasta, lentils, rice, and a zesty tomato sauce. It’s a carb lover’s dream, and the best part? You can feed a family of four for under $5!

What is Koshari?

Koshari (also spelled Koshary or Kushari) is a wildly popular Egyptian street food that combines simple, budget-friendly ingredients into a filling masterpiece. It’s a delicious layering of lentils, rice, and macaroni topped with a spiced tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. Some versions also add chickpeas for extra texture and protein.

This humble yet satisfying dish is a go-to for Egyptians when they need a cheap, filling meal – and now you can bring it to your table, too.

Why Koshari is a Budget Superstar

• Affordable Ingredients: Rice, pasta, lentils, and onions are some of the cheapest pantry staples you can buy.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe easily stretches to 6-8 servings, making it perfect for meal prep or feeding a large family.
• Protein-Packed: Thanks to lentils and chickpeas, Koshari delivers a healthy dose of plant-based protein.

How to Make Koshari (Serves 6-8 for Under $5)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils ($1)
• 1 cup rice ($0.75)
• 1 cup elbow macaroni ($0.50)
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced ($0.60)
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed ($0.75)
• 1 can diced tomatoes ($1)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced ($0.10)
• 1 tsp cumin ($0.05)
• 1 tsp paprika ($0.05)
• 1 tsp ground coriander ($0.05)
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat) ($0.05)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (Pantry staple)
• Salt and pepper to taste (Pantry staple)

Total Cost: $4.85 for 6-8 servings ($0.60 per serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lentils: Rinse lentils and place them in a pot with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in diced tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
5. Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and crispy. Set aside.
6. Assemble the Koshari: In a large serving dish, layer the rice, lentils, and macaroni. Top with the chickpeas, tomato sauce, and finally the crispy onions.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Koshari

• Crispy Onion Hack: For extra-crispy onions, toss them in a sprinkle of flour before frying.
• Add a Kick: For a spicier version, drizzle some hot sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper over the finished dish.
• Extra Protein: Stir in cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for a meatier twist.

Meal Prep & Storage

Koshari stores beautifully and even tastes better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

More Budget Meal Inspiration

If you loved Koshari, try these other cheap and satisfying recipes:

• Shakshuka – The $3 Middle Eastern Egg Dish You Didn’t Know You Needed!
• Crispy Baked Falafel – A High-Protein Meal for Pennies
• Savory Oatmeal with Eggs & Spinach – Cozy, Cheap & Full of Protein

External Resources for Koshari Lovers

• Serious Eats’ Guide to Egyptian Cuisine
• The Guardian’s Authentic Koshari Recipe

Final Thoughts

Koshari is comfort food at its finest – rich, satisfying, and easy on the wallet. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want a hearty family dinner, this Egyptian classic is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.

Have you tried Koshari before? Let me know your thoughts and favorite variations in the comments below!