We Tasted the Top 10 Foods in Egypt: Here is All You Need to Know

Prepare your taste buds for an epic journey through the enchanting world of Egyptian cuisine, where flavors as old as the pyramids themselves await.

Egypt, a land of ancient wonders and vibrant culture, is equally celebrated for its culinary treasures. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the tranquil oases of the Western Desert, Egyptian food offers a delightful fusion of flavors and history. In this culture and travel article, we embark on a delectable journey through Egypt’s top foods, uncovering the secrets of what to eat in Egypt.

Our culinary adventure begins with Koshari, the quintessential Egyptian comfort food. This vegetarian delight combines macaroni, rice, lentils, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It’s an explosion of textures and tastes that reflects Egypt’s diverse heritage.

For a hearty Egyptian breakfast, there’s nothing quite like Ful Medames. Mashed fava beans, mixed with olive oil, garlic, and a medley of spices, create a dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy it with a side of fresh pita bread and a sprinkle of lemon juice.

Egypt’s version of the popular Middle Eastern shawarma features thinly sliced layers of marinated meat, often chicken or beef, cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Served in a pita bread or flatbread wrap and garnished with tahini sauce, veggies, and pickles, it’s a flavorful street food that’s easy to find.

Mahshi, meaning “stuffed” in Arabic, is a common theme in Egyptian cuisine. You’ll encounter vine leaves stuffed with a rice mixture, and vegetables like zucchini, eggplants, and bell peppers filled with a delectable mix of spiced rice and sometimes minced meat. It’s a true taste of Egyptian home cooking.

5. Fattah: A Festive Dish

Fattah is often reserved for special occasions and celebrations. It features layers of toasted bread, rice, and lamb or beef, all generously drenched in garlic-infused tomato sauce. Topped with crispy fried onions, it’s a dish that captures the essence of Egyptian hospitality.

Hawawshi is Egypt’s answer to a meat pie. Spiced minced meat, often beef or lamb, is stuffed into a round bread pocket and baked until crispy and aromatic. It’s a portable, flavorful snack that’s perfect for exploring the bustling streets.

No exploration of Egyptian food is complete without a taste of Umm Ali, a luscious bread pudding. Layers of puff pastry, nuts, and raisins are soaked in sweet milk and flavored with hints of coconut and vanilla. It’s a dessert that reigns supreme in Egypt’s culinary scene.

Basbousa is a delightful semolina cake drenched in syrup, often flavored with rosewater or orange blossom water. It’s a favorite treat during festive occasions and family gatherings.

Feseekh is a fermented salted fish, an acquired taste for adventurous foodies. Often enjoyed during the Sham El-Nessim holiday, it’s traditionally eaten with onions, bread, and tahini.

Liver lovers, rejoice! Kebda Iskandarani is a popular street food made from sautéed liver slices, flavored with garlic and served in pita bread or flatbread.

From the hearty Koshari to the sweet embrace of Umm Ali, Egyptian food is a symphony of flavors and traditions. Exploring the top foods in Egypt is not just a culinary journey but an immersion in the country’s rich history and warm hospitality. So, when you venture to Egypt, remember to savor these top 10 foods, each offering a unique piece of Egypt’s culinary tapestry.