Koshari: Egypt's National Comfort Food

1.Prepare the lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed lentils with 3 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

2.Cook the rice: In another saucepan, combine rinsed rice, 1.5 cups water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until water is absorbed and rice is cooked. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

3.Cook the pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions in salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.

4.Prepare the tomato sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

5.Stir in the crushed tomatoes, 1/4 cup white vinegar, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.

6.Prepare the crispy onions: While the sauce simmers, place thinly sliced onions in a bowl. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, tossing to coat evenly. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

7.Fry the onions in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, until golden brown and crispy, about 5-8 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Set aside.

8.Prepare the garlic-vinegar sauce (Dakka): In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup white vinegar, 1/4 cup water, minced garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt.

9.Assemble the Koshari: To serve, layer the ingredients in bowls or plates: start with a base of rice, followed by lentils, pasta, and chickpeas. Spoon a generous amount of tomato sauce over the top. Drizzle with the garlic-vinegar sauce (Dakka) and sprinkle generously with crispy fried onions.

10.Serve immediately.