Offering a wide range of dishes with Mediterranean, North African, and Middle Eastern flavors, Egyptian cuisine is very diverse. Here are some of the most famous dishes in Egypt:
1. Koshary
The main ingredients of Koshary usually include:
- Boiled lentils
- Rice
- Macaroni
- Chickpeas
- Fried onions
- A special red sauce
However, some Egyptians, like Alexandrians, add grilled liver. Koshary is one of the most affordable Egyptian dishes that you can find in both fancy restaurants and street vendors. It is typically served with an extra pack of vinegar and hot sauce to be added to taste. (1)
2. Tamiya
Tamiya, also known as falafel, differs from the Mediterranean falafel in its main ingredient as well as its shape. Tamiya is typically made of mashed fava beans and parsley rather than chickpeas and is shaped like disks rather than rounded balls. (2)
You can enjoy Tamiya either in a sandwich with fried vegetables and a special Tahini sauce or served in a dish along with Pita bread and green tea. (3)
3. Fatta
Fatta is another traditional dish in the Egyptian cuisine, typically made of:
- soup
- Crusty bread
- RiceMeat
- Sauce
It is an easy to prepare dish that is nutritious and delicious at the same time. It is usually prepared for special occasions where a lot of people are invited. (3)
If you want to prepare the original recipe of Fatta, you should use the Aish Baladi. However, if Aish Baladi is not available, you can use any type of bread, such as pita, white bread, toast, etc. (3)
4. Hawawshi
Hawawshi’s main ingredients include:
- Meat
- Vegetables
- Aish Baladi
- Special spices
This snack can be made by stuffing the seasoned minced meat and vegetable mixture inside the bread, then baking it until the meat is fully cooked and the bread gets a golden crust. (4)
Whether prepared at home, enjoyed in a restaurant, or eaten at a street vendor, Hawawshi is an Egyptian delicacy that you should try at least once when visiting Egypt. (4)
In conclusion, Egyptian cuisine is very diversified and encompasses a lot of appetizing dishes that are simple yet flavorful.
References:
(1) Egyptian Food: 20 Most Popular and Traditional Dishes to Try (nomadparadise.com)
(2) Top 20 Egyptian Dishes | Traditional Egyptian Food | Egyptian food (cleopatraegypttours.com)
(3) Top 35 Traditional Egyptian Food To Try – Egypt Time Travel