Koshary Bliss

Koshary (also spelled Kushari) is a beloved Egyptian dish that combines pasta, rice, lentils, chickpeas, and a delicious garlicky tomato sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. Here’s a summary of its rich history and variations:

History

• Origins in Ancient Egypt: The name “Koshir” was used in ancient Egypt to refer to a food made of lentils, wheat, chickpeas, garlic, and onions, believed to be a part of ritual offerings to the gods. It was considered a breakfast dish in ancient Egyptian society, cooked together in clay pots.
• The dish was reportedly referred to as the “food of the rites of the Gods”, and a priest from Heliopolis mentioned it as a meal after fasting during a specific day in the ancient Egyptian calendar.
• The Food of the Poor: Known for its simplicity, Koshary became a staple among the working class and is often referred to as “The food of the Poor” due to its filling nature and affordable ingredients.
• Introduction to Modern Times: In the 1800s, explorer Richard Burton documented Koshary as a breakfast dish in Suez, which included rice, lentils, butter, onions, and pickled lemons.
• Street Food Evolution: Koshary started as a dish sold by street vendors and food carts but later found its place in restaurants, where it’s served as a popular meal for all types of social occasions.

Ingredients

• Rice, lentils, vermicelli pasta, fried onions, chickpeas
• Garlicky tomato sauce and garlic vinegar for seasoning
• Hot sauce (optional)

Cooking Process

The dish is made by layering cooked rice, pasta, and lentils, then topped with chickpeas, fried onions, and a tangy tomato sauce. It can be served with extra garlic vinegar or hot sauce, depending on the individual’s preference.

Cultural Significance

• Affordable and Filling: As a humble, affordable dish, Koshary is often associated with the working class, providing a substantial meal that can sustain people for long hours.
• Vegan-Friendly: When prepared with vegetable oil for frying, Koshary is naturally vegan, making it a popular choice for those following plant-based diets.

Variants

• Alexandrian Koshary: This variation differs significantly in taste and appearance. The rice is cooked with curry and cumin, giving it a yellow hue, and Egyptian fried eggs are added. It also uses pickled tomatoes rather than the traditional tomato sauce and is often served with French fries on the side