The known tourist attractions of the countries make them famous by their name, like France's Eiffel Tower, India's Taj Mahal, UAE’s Burj Khalifa, and Egypt's Pyramids. But the overlook of traditional cuisine and its history boasts the country's rich heritage.
While these famous tourist attractions may draw travellers to visit the country, the biggest draw is the delicious cuisine. Eygpt has an amazing ancient time history when it comes to cuisine. Egyptian cuisine holds the taste of ancient culture and the true tradition of Egypt. Travel to Eygpt and try some culinary delights of Eygpt.
Let's have a glimpse at the delicious E`gyptian cuisine.
01. Ful Medames
The traditional Egyptian breakfast is perfect to start the day in Egypt- Ful Medames. It's made from slow-cooked fava beans, seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, an assortment of aromatic spices and olive oil; served with warm Egyptian bread or pita. Egypt food is a must-try when you visit the country. You can also enjoy added flavour with additional toppings like fresh tomatoes, onions, and tangy pickles.
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02. Ta'meya (Egyptian Falafel)
Ta'meya is a patty made from deep-fried ground fava beans or chickpeas. Served on freshly baked pita bread with seasonings like tahini sauce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickles. The flavours and the taste will take you on a delightful journey. Savouring different traditional food in Egypt is an experience you'll never forget.
03. Molokhia
Molokhia is a nutritious and flavorful stew made from the leaves of the Molokhia plant (also known as Jew's mallow). It is cooked with chicken or beef, and the molokhia leaves are simmered in a rich broth with garlic and coriander, giving a flavorful meal. It is served over rice or with bread. Travel to Egypt for the vibrant tapestry of flavours of Egyptian cuisine.
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04. Hawawshi
Hawawshi is a meat-filled pastry and popular street food in Egypt. It is made by stuffing pita bread with a mixture of minced meat (usually beef or lamb), onions, herbs, and spices; then baked or grilled until crispy and golden. The combination of flavours is immense; you can enjoy it with pickles and a splash of lemon juice. The traditional food in Egypt offers a delicious glimpse into the local food culture of Egypt.
05. Hibiscus Tea (Karkadeh)
Hibiscus Tea, or Karkadesh, is made by steeping dried hibiscus petals in boiling water. The petal releases their vibrant red colour and tart flavour as they infuse in hot water. It holds a special place in Egyptian culture, with its tangy and slightly sour taste that is refreshing and fruity. The flavour of the tea can be enhanced by adding sugar or honey and a hint of lemon juice, according to personal preference. It is enjoyed both hot and cold making it suitable for the winter and summer. Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo, Egypt, is the best tourist place in Egypt and one of the oldest markets where you can find numerous cafes serving hibiscus tea.
06. Basbousa
asbousa, also known as revani or harissa, is a traditional Egyptian dessert. It is a sweet semolina cake soaked in sweet syrup. Semolina, sugar, yoghurt, butter or oil, and baking powder are mixed to form a thick batter, spread evenly in a baking dish and scored into diamond or square shapes. It is baked in the oven until the cake is golden brown. It is flavoured with rosewater or orange blossom water. It is garnished with nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, on top. Travel to Egypt to try this authentic Egyptian dessert.
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07. Sahlab
Sahlab is a popular hot beverage enjoyed especially during winter due to its warming and comforting qualities. The key ingredient in Sahlab is salep, an orchid root flour. Salep has a starchy and slightly sweet flavour and is a thickening agent for the drink.
The salep powder is mixed with milk or water, along with sugar or sweeteners to taste, which is heated and simmered while continuously stirring to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency. Spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg are often added for additional flavour. Cherishing winter drinks with Egyptian culture is the best thing to do in Egypt.
08. Konafa
Konafa, also known as Kunafa, is a pastry made from shredded or vermicelli-like pastry dough that is layered with sweet fillings and soaked in a sweet syrup. The base is made from shredded phyllo dough, or a special Konafa dough known for its crispy and golden texture when baked. The dough is mixed with melted butter or ghee to add richness and flavour, which is layered in a baking dish, with each layer brushed with butter to create a crispy and flaky texture. Trying Konafa is one of the famous things to do in Egypt. Konafa is served warm or at room temperature and is usually garnished with crushed pistachios and almonds or dusted with powdered sugar. It is enjoyed on special occasions, at festive gatherings, or as a delightful treat during Ramadan and other celebrations.
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09. Koshari
Koshari is the national dish of Egypt. It is a popular Egypt food and a comfort dish that is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish made from a combination of rice, lentils, pasta, and a variety of toppings; all brought together with a spiced tomato sauce. Koshari is known for its bold flavours, satisfying textures, and the combination of savoury, tangy, and slightly spicy elements.
Whenever the question arises, "What to eat in Egypt?" remember to give a glimpse here and enjoy the Egyptian cuisine and its vibrant tapestry of flavours, aromas, and traditions that reflect the country's rich history.
“Egyptian food delivers a tantalizing culinary journey for food lovers around the world.”
While in Egypt, remember to explore the hidden gems by visiting local markets and street food stalls for authentic dining experiences. The locals use traditional recipes passed down through generations. The warm hospitality of Egyptian people and the cultural ambience can be experienced here. Traditional food in Egypt has the true essence of Egyptian cuisine, the passion, the warmth and the savouring flavours that weave together to create a remarkable everlasting experience.
