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Koshari (Rice, Lentils & Pasta)

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Its name is widely thought to come from India's khichri, a rice-and-lentil dish, which reached Egypt in the British colonial era.

Rice, lentils, and macaroni layered together, topped with a spiced tomato sauce, chickpeas, and crispy fried onions, sold from dedicated koshari carts found on nearly every Cairo street.

Why it's made this way: As a filling, cheap, entirely plant-based combination of pantry staples, koshari became Egypt's most accessible daily meal, transcending income levels.