Egypt is top of mind right now for many travellers seeking the next exciting destination.
But when you think of Egypt, you’re probably picturing the Pyramids, the bustling markets of Cairo and the ancient temples of Luxor.
But beyond Egypt’s incredible history and culture is a diversity of rich and vibrant culinary delights. Food in Egypt is far more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of family, friends and centuries-old traditions.
Whether you’re wandering the streets of a bustling city or dining with locals in a small village, the country’s flavours will invite you to explore its heart and soul in a different way.
Egyptian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and African influences, making it a culinary adventure for sure! Imagine hearty street food to comforting home-cooked dishes or fine dining in hotels! There’s tastes you really don’t want to miss.
Take a look at some of our favourites below to get you salivating!
Koshari: A Street Food Classic
Let’s start with a dish that’s adored by both locals and travelers—Koshari. This vegan and vegetarian-friendly delight is Egypt’s ultimate comfort food. Imagine a layered mix of black lentils, rice, and pasta, all topped with a zesty tomato sauce, crunchy fried onions, and chickpeas.
What sets Koshari apart are the additional sauces, where you can add a tangy garlic-vinegar blend or spice things up with a dash of chili sauce. Served up in bustling food stalls and local eateries, it’s a must-try that captures the essence of Egypt’s street food culture.
Be sure to specify how ‘hot’ you’d like the sauces because some of them take your breath away!
Breakfast of the Pharaohs
For breakfast, Egyptians truly go all out. Ful medames, a slow-cooked fava bean dish, is a staple on any traditional Egyptian breakfast table. It’s often paired with Taameya, Egypt’s version of falafel made from fava beans, not chickpeas. Add some eggs, fresh vegetables, and Baladi bread—a soft, round flatbread—to the mix, and you’ve got a wholesome start to your day. For an indulgent treat, try Feteer meshaltet—a flaky pastry served with honey, molasses, or old white cheese. You’ll feel like royalty with every bite!
Mixed Grill & Mezze: The Egyptian Feast
For those who love a good barbecue, Egypt’s Mixed Grill platters are a must. This delicious assortment of grilled meats—lamb, beef, and chicken—is served with a selection of flavorful dips like tahini, baba ghanoush, and garlic sauce. And don’t miss out on the mezze—vibrant, colorful salads such as Baladi salad, beetroot salad, and potato salad, which add a fresh and zesty note to every meal.
Molokheya: A Taste of Tradition
Moving into heartier territory, Molokheya is a unique green soup or stew made from jute leaves, garlic, and coriander. Often served with rice or bread, this traditional dish is frequently paired with slow-cooked chicken or even rabbit. It’s beloved for its earthy, herbal flavor and is a comforting meal that you’ll find on many Egyptian dinner tables, especially during family gatherings.
Alexandria’s Seafood Delights
If you find yourself in the coastal city of Alexandria, make sure to dive into its fresh seafood scene. With the Mediterranean at its doorstep, Alexandria boasts some of Egypt’s best fish dishes. From grilled seabass to fried calamari, seafood lovers are in for a real treat.
Fattah: Celebratory Layers
A dish saved for special occasions, Fattah is a layered feast of crispy bread, rice, and tender meat, all smothered in a garlicky tomato sauce. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find at weddings, festivals, or family celebrations, showcasing how Egyptians make food an integral part of their moments of joy.
Hawawshi: Egypt’s Answer to a Meat Pie
If you love a good pie, you’ll enjoy the warm, savoury local dish called Hawawshi (pictured). Imagine spicy minced meat mixed with onions and peppers, stuffed into Baladi bread, and baked until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavour—perfect for a quick bite between sightseeing adventures.
Sweet Treats: Desserts That Delight
No meal in Egypt is complete without a sweet treat! Egyptian desserts are nothing short of heavenly. Here’s a few examples to salivate over…
Om Ali(Mother of Ali) is a warm, indulgent dessert made from layers of flaky pastry, milk, nuts, and raisins. It’s like a richer, Egyptian version of bread and butter pudding, and it’s perfect for those cool evenings (if you can imagine it in Egypt!).
If you prefer something with a bit of crunch, get your hands on Konafa —layers of crispy pastry filled with sweet cream or nuts, drizzled with syrup. This is my personal favourite (pictured to tempt you).
And don’t forget Basbousa, a semolina cake soaked in syrup and often topped with almonds for another satisfyingly sweet treat.
Have we enticed you yet?