UNESCO inscribed Egyptian koshari on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for 2025, marking a historic achievement as Egypt's 11th element on the list and the first Egyptian dish to receive such recognition 
. The announcement was made Dec. 10 during the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage session in New Delhi, India 
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Dr. Ahmed Fouad Henno, Egypt's Minister of Culture, expressed deep pride in the achievement, calling it "a renewed confirmation of the status of Egyptian heritage and its ability to inspire and renew itself" 
. The minister emphasized that koshari reflects everyday Egyptian life and cultural identity, noting that future registrations will include more social and cultural practices passed down through generations .
UNESCO described koshari as "the most widely consumed dish among Egyptians," made from simple, affordable ingredients such as rice, macaroni, black lentils, and fried onions, enhanced with seasonings like vinegar, garlic, and chili 
. The dish has historical roots dating back to ancient times, with depictions of its ingredients found on pharaonic temple walls and remains discovered in ancient tombs . The organization noted that koshari is enjoyed by people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds across rural, urban, and coastal communities .
Dr. Nahla Imam, Advisor to the Minister for Intangible Heritage and Egypt's representative to the UNESCO convention, credited the achievement to two years of dedicated effort involving extensive collaboration with local communities, koshari restaurants, and Egyptian women who preserve and transmit the recipe across generations . She emphasized that the nomination file was developed through close collaboration with daily practitioners, demonstrating the dish's diversity, richness, and unifying social role . The Egyptian delegation celebrated the recognition by serving koshari to UNESCO committee members during the session .
In a parallel development, Italian cuisine also received UNESCO recognition as an intangible cultural heritage, becoming the first culinary tradition worldwide to be recognized in its entirety 
. The Italian recognition was unanimously approved by the Intergovernmental Committee, with UNESCO describing Italian cuisine as a "cultural and social blend of culinary traditions" that promotes social inclusion and strengthens community bonds . Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called Italian cuisine the country's "most formidable ambassador," emphasizing its role in tourism and cultural offerings 
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