The Best Food to Try in Egypt

Egypt is a country that is steeped in history and culture, with a cuisine that is just as rich and diverse. From succulent meats to flavorful vegetables, Egypt’s cuisine is a true representation of its rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, there are a number of dishes you simply cannot afford to miss. Here are some of the best foods to try in Egypt.

1. Koshari 🍛

Koshari is a popular street food in Egypt, a dish that is made up of rice, macaroni, and lentils. It also includes chickpeas, fried onions, and a spicy tomato sauce. This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Egypt, and it’s perfect for vegetarians.

1.1 How is Koshari made?

Koshari is made by boiling the rice, macaroni, and lentils separately before combining them into one pot. The chickpeas are also boiled and added to the pot along with the spices, such as cumin and garlic. The tomato sauce is made by blending tomatoes and adding chili peppers for a spicy kick.

1.2 Where can you find Koshari in Egypt?

Koshari is a popular street food in Egypt and can be found in most cities and towns. Some of the best places to try this dish are in Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor.

2. Ful Medames 🍲

Ful Medames is a popular breakfast dish in Egypt, made from fava beans that have been slow-cooked overnight. The beans are then mixed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. The dish is commonly served with pita bread and is a great way to start your day in Egypt.

2.1 How is Ful Medames made?

Ful Medames is made by soaking fava beans overnight before cooking them in a pot with water and salt. The beans are then mashed and mixed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.

2.2 Where can you find Ful Medames in Egypt?

Ful Medames is a popular breakfast dish in Egypt and can be found in most restaurants and cafes that serve breakfast. Some of the best places to try Ful Medames are in Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor.

3. Shawarma 🌯

Shawarma is a popular street food in Egypt, a dish that is made up of meat (usually chicken or beef) that has been marinated in spices and then roasted on a spit. The meat is then shaved off the spit and served with pita bread, vegetables, and a variety of sauces.

3.1 How is Shawarma made?

Shawarma is made by marinating the meat (usually chicken or beef) in a blend of spices and herbs before roasting it on a spit. Once cooked, the meat is shaved off the spit and served with pita bread, vegetables, and sauces.

3.2 Where can you find Shawarma in Egypt?

Shawarma is a popular street food in Egypt and can be found in most cities and towns. Some of the best places to try Shawarma are in Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor.

4. Molokhia 🍲

Molokhia is a traditional Egyptian dish that is made from the leaves of the Jute plant. The leaves are cooked with garlic, coriander, and chicken or beef broth to create a soup-like consistency. The dish is commonly served with rice or bread.

4.1 How is Molokhia made?

Molokhia is made by cooking the leaves of the Jute plant with garlic, coriander, and chicken or beef broth until they are soft. The mixture is then blended until it reaches a soup-like consistency.

4.2 Where can you find Molokhia in Egypt?

Molokhia is a traditional Egyptian dish and can be found in most restaurants that serve traditional Egyptian cuisine. Some of the best places to try Molokhia are in Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor.

5. Basbousa 🍰

Basbousa is a popular Egyptian dessert that is made from semolina, sugar, coconut, and yogurt. The mixture is baked and then soaked in a sweet syrup made from sugar and lemon juice. The result is a deliciously sweet and moist cake that is perfect for dessert.

5.1 How is Basbousa made?

Basbousa is made by mixing semolina, sugar, coconut, and yogurt together until they form a thick batter. The batter is then baked in an oven until it is golden brown. Once baked, the cake is soaked in a syrup made from sugar and lemon juice.

5.2 Where can you find Basbousa in Egypt?

Basbousa is a popular dessert in Egypt and can be found in most restaurants and cafes that serve dessert. Some of the best places to try Basbousa are in Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is traditional Egyptian food?

Traditional Egyptian food is a mixture of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Some of the most popular dishes include Koshari, Ful Medames, Shawarma, and Molokhia.

2. What is the most popular food in Egypt?

Koshari is one of the most popular foods in Egypt. It’s a dish that is made up of rice, macaroni, and lentils, and is commonly served with chickpeas, fried onions, and a spicy tomato sauce.

3. Is Egyptian food spicy?

Egyptian food can be spicy, but it’s not typically as spicy as some other Middle Eastern cuisines. The spice level can be adjusted to suit your personal taste.

4. What is the national dish of Egypt?

Ful Medames is often considered the national dish of Egypt. It’s a popular breakfast dish made from fava beans that have been slow-cooked overnight.

5. What is the most popular dessert in Egypt?

Basbousa is one of the most popular desserts in Egypt. It’s a sweet cake made from semolina, sugar, coconut, and yogurt, and is commonly soaked in a syrup made from sugar and lemon juice.

6. Is Egyptian food healthy?

Egyptian food can be healthy, particularly if you opt for dishes that feature vegetables, legumes, and lean meats. However, some traditional dishes may be high in fat and calories.

7. What should I avoid eating in Egypt?

It’s advisable to avoid tap water in Egypt, as it may contain harmful bacteria. Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid eating uncooked or undercooked meats and seafood, as these may also be a source of harmful bacteria.

Conclusion

Egypt is a country that is rich in history and culture, and its cuisine is no exception. With a wide variety of dishes that are both flavorful and unique, Egypt’s cuisine is a true representation of the country’s heritage. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat-eater, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you’re in Egypt, make sure to try some of the country’s best foods.

Take action now and book your flight to Egypt to experience its culinary delights for yourself!

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. The author does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information provided. The information provided in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.