Koshary
Cairo, Egypt
Koshary combines rice, lentils, macaroni and chickpeas with tomato sauce, fried onions, garlic vinegar and chilli. The appeal is in the contrast between soft grains and pasta, crisp onions and sharp sauces, with each diner adjusting the final balance.
Why locals eat it
It developed through Cairo’s urban street-food culture and brings inexpensive pantry ingredients together in a substantial vegetarian meal. Dedicated koshary shops often work quickly, layering the components to order and making the sauces part of the dish rather than optional decoration.
Local tip
Start with a little garlic vinegar and chilli, mix from the bottom upward and add more sauce gradually. A small serving is filling, so choose the size before adding other dishes.
Typically made with
Rice, Macaroni, Lentils, Chickpeas, Fried onions, Tomato sauce, Garlic vinegar. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.