How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, jasmine or long-grain white rice can be a suitable substitute.

Can this dish be made ahead?

Absolutely, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble the pie when ready to bake.

What can I use instead of phyllo dough?

Puff pastry can work as a substitute, with slight adjustments to baking time.

How do I reheat the pie?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to maintain crispness.

Savory Egyptian Koshari Pie with Lentil and Tomato Layers

Name: Savory Egyptian Koshari Pie with Lentil and Tomato Layers
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper; 1 cup basmati rice; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/4 teaspoon turmeric; Salt; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cloves garlic; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper; 2 sheets phyllo dough; 2 tablespoons melted butter

A Unique Twist on the Classic Koshari

Discover the enticing flavors of Egypt with this innovative layered pie, combining the traditional elements of koshari with a pastry twist.

1 h 45 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lentil Layer

1 cup green or brown lentils

cooked

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Rice Layer

1 cup basmati rice

cooked

1 tablespoon butter

1/4 teaspoon turmeric

Salt

to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 cloves garlic

minced

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Pastry Crust

2 sheets phyllo dough

2 tablespoons melted butter

Preparation

Preparing the Lentil Layer

Heat olive oil

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

Add lentils and spices

Add cooked lentils, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Cook lentils

Cook for 5 minutes until heated through.

Preparing the Rice Layer

Melt butter

Melt butter in a saucepan.

Combine rice and spices

Add cooked rice, turmeric, and salt. Stir to combine.

Cook rice

Cook gently for 3 minutes.

Ensure the rice and lentils are fully drained to avoid a soggy pie. Using a glass pie dish helps monitor the crust's doneness.

Cooking Process

Assembling the Pie

Layer cooked lentils, rice, and tomato sauce in a dish. Cover with phyllo sheets brushed with melted butter.

Baking the Koshari Pie

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.

Checking for Crispness

Ensure the phyllo sheets are golden and flaky before removing from oven.

Plating & Serving