The most famous eat and drink in Egypt

Domenic Montes

Mar10,2023 • 9 min read

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gypt is a country that is famous for its ancient pyramids, the Nile river, and beautiful desert landscapes. But Egypt also has a rich and diverse culinary tradition that is sure to delight any food lover. Egyptian cuisine is an amalgamation of various cultural influences and traditions, which has resulted in a diverse and flavorful cuisine that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. From hearty stews to sweet desserts, Egypt offers a wide range of delectable dishes that you must try when you visit this beautiful country. We will take you on a culinary journey through Egypt and highlight some of the best things to eat and drink.


National Dish

Ful Medames is a traditional Egyptian dish that is typically eaten for breakfast. It consists of cooked fava beans, served with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Some people add hard-boiled eggs, tomato, and parsley as well. Ful Medames is a nutritious and filling dish, and it's an excellent way to start your day.

Taameya, also known as falafel, is a popular Egyptian street food. It's made from ground fava beans or chickpeas mixed with herbs and spices, then formed into small balls and deep-fried until crispy. The result is a crunchy and flavorful snack that can be eaten alone or served as a sandwich with tahini sauce and vegetables.


Street food

Kebda, or liver, is a popular street food in Egypt. It's usually cooked on a flat-top grill with onions, peppers, and spices. Kebda is often served with bread or eaten on its own as a quick snack.

Hawawshi is a type of sandwich made with spiced ground beef or lamb stuffed into bread and baked.

Koshari is a hearty and flavorful mix of rice, lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce, fried onions, and garlic. Koshary is the ultimate comfort food and is often referred to as the Egyptian version of a bowl of chili.

Shawarma is a popular street food in Egypt and is a must-try when you visit the country. It consists of roasted meat (usually chicken or beef) that is sliced and served on pita bread with vegetables, tahini sauce, and pickles.


Grilled Meat

Kebab is a type of grilled meat that is popular in Egypt. It's usually made from chunks of marinated beef or lamb that are skewered and grilled over an open flame. Kebab is often served with bread, salad, and dips like tahini and baba ghanoush.

Kofta is another type of grilled meat that is popular in Egypt. It's made from minced meat, usually, beef or lamb, mixed with onions, herbs, and spices, then shaped into small cylinders and grilled. Kofta is often served with rice or bread and a side of salad.


Feteer Meshaltet

Feteer Meshaltet is a traditional Egyptian pastry that is similar to a croissant. Traditionally prepared in ovens in countryside houses, It's made from layers of dough that are brushed with butter and then rolled and folded. Feteer Meshaltet can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings, such as cheese, honey, or meat.


Hamam Mahshi

Hamam Mahshi is a stuffed pigeon dish that is popular in Egypt. The pigeon is stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, then roasted until tender. Hamam Mahshi is often served with bread, salad, and a side of tahini sauce.


Molokhia

Molokhia is a soup made from the leaves of the molokhia plant.  The leaves are boiled in chicken or meat broth, then served with rice or bread. Molokhia has a slightly slimy texture but is packed with flavor and nutrition.


Seafood

Egypt has a long coastline on the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, which means there is an abundance of fresh seafood available. Some popular seafood dishes include grilled fish, shrimp, and calamari. Fish like tilapia and mullet are also popular and are often cooked with spices and herbs. These dishes are often served with rice or bread and a side of salad.


Vegetarians and vegans

Egyptian cuisine has plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. Fuul medames and taameya (Egyptian falafel) are both vegetarian dishes that are widely available. You can also find stuffed grape leaves, eggplant dishes, and plenty of vegetable stews. Just be sure to ask if there are any meat or dairy products used in the cooking process.


Cafe culture

Egyptians love their coffee and tea, and Cairo has a thriving cafe culture. From traditional coffeehouses to modern cafes, there’s a place for everyone. One popular drink to try is karkade ( Hibiscus tea ) which is served hot or cold. Coffee and mint tea are particularly popular, and cafes are often places to meet with friends, relax, and socialize.
Also, Egypt is known for its delicious mangoes, and the mango juice in Egypt is simply amazing. It is made from fresh mangoes and is a refreshing and sweet drink that is perfect for hot summer days.


Egyptian Desserts

Baklava is a sweet and sticky pastry that is made from layers of filo pastry, nuts, and honey syrup. It is a popular dessert in Egypt and is often served with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Oum ali - End your day the Egyptian way with Oum ali a dessert that is made from layers of phyllo pastry, milk, nuts, and raisins. It’s a creamy and delicious dessert that is perfect for ending a meal. You’ll find oum ali in restaurants and cafes all over Egypt, but it’s also easy to make at home.