Egypt has never been cheaper to travel to as it is now; neither has the amazing traditional food.  The ancient history makes the Egyptian cuisine what it is today, with the detailed preparation of the dishes.

Therefor, I have put together some of my favourite dishes I tried while I was in Egypt. Don’t hesitate and let your mouth undergo a complete sense of well-being from all the different but delightful flavours you will find in Egypt.  

Ful Medames “فول مدمس”

Ful Medames
Ful Medames

However, a long the amount of food they serve it is an eminent part of the Egyptian culture to gather together and celebrate with family and friends but if you attend an Egyptian dinner with locals or friends, do yourself a favour and arrive with an empty stomach. In other words, you are going to be well fed and they will hand you food every time you look at them. Friendly, of course, but they will not accept a “Oh, thank you, but I’m actually very full”.

The traditional breakfast is Ful Medames. After eating this rich breakfast, you will not feel hungry for a while. The reason is that Ful is made of fava beans, which has been soaking overnight and cooked for a few hours over low heat. Certainly, there is more than one way to serve this dish but usually you will find it served with pita bread, eggs or cheese. For instance, when I tried it for the first time, it was served with Ta’maya, which is the Egyptian falafel. In short this is a very rich and tasty breakfast and something you cannot miss out on.

Mahshi “محشي”

Mashi

Mashi, is definitely one of my favourite Egyptian dishes, which would be served as a side dish between other delicious plates. To clarify Mahshi Kromb means stuffed cabbage and the stuffing can be made differently and usually people have their own way of making them. The ones I had was so tasty made with onions, tomatoes, cumin, chilli, cinnamon, ginger, not to mention the variation of dill, parsley and coriander. Everything is mixed with rice and covered in cabbage leaves. It is a perfect appetiser or as a side dish.  

Bamya “بامية”

Bamya

The common meats in Egypt are pigeon, rabbit, chicken and duck. Lamb and beef are mostly for grilling. However, Bamya is one of the dishes that are typically served with lamb or beef. They do have a vegetarian option as well.

It’s probably one of the tastiest stews I have ever had in my life. Made up on tomatoes and the Middle Eastern okra, usually served with rice or pita bread. Okra is a green vegetable also known as ‘ladies’ fingers’. You’ll find okra cooked, pickled, eaten raw or in salads. When it’s cooked, like in this stew, it’s a bit slimy which add to the whole stew feeling like everything is melting on your tongue and brings pure pleasure to your mind and soul.

Mulukhiyah “ملوخية”

Mulukhiyah

Now, Mulukhiyah. This dish you can’t miss. It’s a very old traditional dish made up of a leafy green. Looking at it, I thought it would be a soup base. Well, it is sort of a soup base but a slimy one. The only thing I can compare it with in Europe is parsley gravy. It was served with pita bread and I was shown how to fold the bread between three fingers as a little cup you then fill with Mulukhiyah. A healthy, interesting dish you should try for the curiosity.

Egyptian Kofta “كُفتة”

Egyptian Beef Kofta

Definitely a dish for the meat lovers. It’s the burger meat of the middle eats rich in flavour, often added lamb for an even richer flavour. The tahini sauce is a typical condiment and typically you’ll find yogurt dip and a salad to add extra taste. The kofta I tasted was grilled, which added even more flavour to the meat. If you are a meat lover. You should definitely try the Egyptian Kofta and use all the sides they serve for you; they are on the table for a reason.