Here are the top 10 foods to try in Egypt, each offering a delicious taste of the country’s rich and diverse culinary traditions:
1. Koshari
Koshari is Egypt's national dish and a favorite street food. It’s a hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with a spiced tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It's a filling, vegetarian dish loved by locals.
2. Molokhia
Molokhia is a traditional Egyptian soup made from the leaves of the jute plant, simmered with garlic, coriander, and chicken or rabbit. It’s often served with rice or bread and is a beloved comfort food in Egypt.
3. Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish, but Egypt has its own twist on it. It’s made from seasoned, slow-cooked meat (usually lamb, chicken, or beef), served in pita bread with tahini, garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Egypt.
4. Foul Medames
Foul Medames is a staple breakfast dish in Egypt. It consists of slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with garlic, lemon, olive oil, and cumin. It's often served with bread, eggs, and vegetables and is a hearty start to the day.
5. Taameya (Egyptian Falafel)
Similar to falafel, Taameya is made from fava beans rather than chickpeas. The beans are mashed with herbs, spices, and onions, then deep-fried into crispy patties. It’s usually served in pita bread with salad, pickles, and tahini sauce.
6. Hawawshi
Hawawshi is a delicious Egyptian sandwich made of spiced ground meat (often beef or lamb) mixed with onions, peppers, and spices, stuffed inside pita bread, and baked until crispy. It’s a popular street food snack throughout Egypt.
7. Samboosa (Samosa)
A popular snack, especially during Ramadan, samboosa is a deep-fried pastry filled with a variety of fillings such as spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese. It's crunchy on the outside and savory on the inside, making it a popular bite-sized treat.
8. Kebabs and Kofta
Egypt’s version of grilled meat is a must-try. Kebabs (grilled chunks of marinated meat) and kofta (ground meat, often mixed with spices and grilled) are usually served with rice, vegetables, or bread. They’re incredibly flavorful and perfect for meat lovers.
9. Basbousa
Basbousa is a traditional Egyptian dessert made from semolina, sugar, and yogurt, soaked in a fragrant syrup of rose water or orange blossom water. It’s a sweet and moist cake that’s often served at celebrations and after meals.
10. Kunafa
Kunafa is a famous Middle Eastern dessert that’s also popular in Egypt. Made from shredded phyllo dough, it’s layered with sweetened cheese or semolina, then baked and soaked in syrup. It's often topped with crushed pistachios, offering a rich and indulgent treat.
These dishes represent the essence of Egyptian cuisine, showcasing both simple street food and flavorful meals enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty dish like Koshari or a sweet dessert like Kunafa, these top 10 foods provide a true taste of Egypt’s vibrant food culture.