Egypt is a country with an incredibly rich and diverse culinary culture. From the traditional street food to the exotic dishes of high-end restaurants, there is something for everyone in Egypt. But what are some of the best foods that this amazing country has to offer? Here’s our guide to some of Egypt’s most delicious eats
Koshari: one of the most famous Egyptian dishes is koshari, a hearty and filling vegetarian dish made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, and macaroni, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and fried onions. Koshari is a staple food in Egypt and can be found at street food stalls, restaurants, and even in homes. It is often served with a side of pickled vegetables, such as beets, carrots, and turnips, to balance out the rich flavors of the dish
ful medames: another popular Egyptian dish is ful medames, a nutritious and satisfying breakfast food made with slow-cooked fava beans, garlic, and spices, topped with olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped herbs. Ful medames is typically served with pita bread, tomatoes, and pickled vegetables, and is a great way to start your day in Egypt
Baklava: If you're looking for something sweet, you can't go wrong with baklava. This delicious pastry is made with layers of filo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup. Baklava is a popular dessert in many countries in the Middle East and Mediterranean, but the Egyptian version is unique in that it often includes pistachios and is dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon
Kofta: for a savory snack, try some kofta. This popular street food consists of grilled or fried meatballs made with ground beef or lamb, onions, and spices. Kofta is often served on skewers with bread and a side of tahini sauce or yogurt dip. It's a great on-the-go snack that will keep you energized and satisfied
Seafood: If you're in the mood for seafood, try some sayadiyah. This traditional Egyptian fish dish is made with rice, onions, and a mix of spices, and is typically served with grilled or fried fish on top. Sayadiyah is a popular dish in coastal regions of Egypt, where fresh fish is readily available. The combination of fragrant rice and tender fish is sure to delight your taste buds
Molokhia: One dish that is often overlooked but shouldn't be is molokhia. This green, leafy vegetable is similar to spinach or kale and is a staple in Egyptian cuisine. It's often used to make a soup or stew, which is flavored with garlic, coriander, and other spices. Molokhia is packed with nutrients and is a great way to get your greens in while also enjoying a delicious and comforting meal
Shawarma: Shawarma may not be exclusive to Egypt but its definitely one of their specialties! Thinly sliced pieces marinated meat are roasted over charcoal before being wrapped up into pita bread along side vegetables such as lettuce tomatoes cucumbers pickles etc., making shawarmas both tasty AND convenient when you're out exploring Cairo during lunchtime hours
Mahshi Warak Enab: Stuffed vine leaves might sound intimidating at first glance however these little bundles filled with rice herbs spices tomato paste lemon juice garlic etc., make them surprisingly delicious - especially when accompanied by yoghurt dip which helps balance out any bitterness from their slightly sour taste profile . Mahshi warak enab will leave your mouth watering every time you try them so don't forget about these delightful treats while visiting Cairo/Alexandria area
Finally, no discussion of Egyptian food would be complete without mentioning the ubiquitous falafel. These deep-fried balls of ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices are a vegetarian staple and can be found on nearly every street corner in Egypt. Falafel is typically served with pita bread, tahini sauce, and vegetables, and is a great option for a quick and tasty meal
In conclusion, Egyptian cuisine is a diverse and flavorful mix of traditional dishes and modern twists. From hearty stews to sweet pastries, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So if you're planning a trip to Egypt, be sure to sample some of the country's best food and experience the unique flavors and aromas of this fascinating culture
