Khowsey: a festive South Asian spaghetti curry

Khowsey, a cherished spaghetti curry in Karachi, Pakistan, is a culinary delight with a rich history. It was introduced to the Indian subcontinent by Memon businessmen and traders who were forced to return from British-occupied Burma (now Myanmar) in the 1960s. They brought with them a version of the Burmese dish Ohn-No Kyaukse, a noodle dish with chicken in a coconut milk-based broth. Once they settled in Karachi, they adapted the dish to their local palate, replacing egg noodles with spaghetti and adding a rich curry made with yoghurt and chickpea flour.

Over time, the dish has evolved to include a variety of fried condiments for added texture and complexity. These include samosa patti, papdi, potato crisps, garlic slivers, onions, and even fried spaghetti. The dish is further enhanced with the addition of green chilies, coriander, lemon wedges, and occasionally green onion. The final touch is a sprinkling of chaat masala, a spicy and sour spice mix that gives the dish a distinctly Pakistani flavor. Despite its delicious taste, the dish's complex preparation process means that many Pakistanis prefer to order it or enjoy it at special occasions.

To cater to this demand, Raheel Shaikh and his mother, Anjum Fayyaz, started Khowsey Kitchen in Karachi as an online eatery. They offer a unique dining experience where customers can build their own bowls from all of the khowsey components. The dish's rich history and cultural significance make it a source of pride for the Memon community, and it continues to be a beloved part of their culinary tradition.