Since an early age, I have always been intrigued by Egyptian Foods. The food not only looked delicious but appeared colorful and presentable as well. I was over the moon when my family and I were planning our first trip to Egypt.
When we arrived, I was eager to delve into and explore its exquisite and rich culture, and in my opinion, there’s no better way than exploring it through food. Every dish tells a story about what events took place during which time that helped create something splendid.
It is an excellent reflection of the country’s history, geography, and diverse influences. From nourishing and hearty food that keeps you warm during the winter months to lavish feasts prepared to celebrate festivals such as Eid, weddings, and birthdays, there’s always something in Egypt’s culinary scene that fits every palate.
Egypt Foods
Egyptian foods are infused with flavors influenced by the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. It beautifully honors ancient traditions and modern influences. Egyptians have incorporated spices like garlic, cumin, and coriander, which have been essential ingredients in most dishes for centuries.
These spices have aromatic qualities that make them unique. They are often used as garnishes while preparing special recipes. Their meals mainly consist of bread, rice, beans, and vegetables, with meat being the center of most of them.
The first thing I observed about the Egyptian people was that they believe communal eating is one of the most important ways to connect with people, forge friendships, and build strong relationships. From street vendors to high-end restaurants, food is nourishment and an experience of togetherness. Let’s explore the most iconic dishes I discovered in my culinary adventure.
Best Egyptian Food
I tried various Egyptian dishes after spending ten days in Cairo, Aswan, and Alexandria. Here are the best Egyptian foods that I highly recommend:
● Kebab and Shawarma:
Knowing the extent of the popularity of kebabs and shawarma in Pennsylvania, I wanted to try how people prepare their kebabs differently in Arab countries. I was pleasantly surprised when I had my first kebab experience in Cairo. The chunks of lamb and the spiced minced meat grilled on a skewer are among my favorite Egyptian meals. This dish became unmatchable when I added cucumber salad and a delicious yogurt chutney to my flatbread.
● Fattah
Fattah is most commonly known as a celebratory dish. My family and I stayed with my uncle in Cairo while traveling. The day we arrived, we were served this rich and delicious dish, beautifully layered with a bowl of rice, crispy bread, and succulent beef drenched in a garlic and vinegar sauce. The balance of flavors made Fattah a very special treat.
● Koshari:
Before visiting Egypt, I considered Egypt’s national dish to be overrated. I changed my mind as soon as I took the first bite. It was indeed one of the best dishes I have ever had. It made me believe that beauty truly lies in simplicity.
Koshari is a rice mix with lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas topped with crispy fried onions and a hot tomato sauce. There is a reason why this dish has a mass following. It’s delicious, satisfying, and fulfilling, making it a perfect food during the winter or in sickness.
● Baklava:
I am a huge fan of sweet treats. I believe that no sweet compares to the delectable taste of Baklava. My friends and family would bring boxes of these sweet treats to our home and I used to love them. Baklava are pistachio-nut-filled pastries that are soaked in syrup. These delicious treats are mostly eaten at festivals or in celebration.
● Alexandrian Kebdah:
When we were visiting the city of Alexandria, Egypt, our cousin told us about a popular street food: liver prepared with hot pepper and garlic or onion. This dish can be prepared in many different ways. It is usually served with tomato sauce.
People who like it spicy usually add hot peppers and pickles to alleviate the spice levels. I would say that this dish is not for everyone, but I personally enjoy trying out different foods and recipes.
● Falafel
Egyptians use fava beans to prepare their falafel, which is soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. I have tried it in different countries, but nothing comes close to the taste of the falafel I had in Cairo, Egypt. Its deep-fried patties inside the pita bread served with garlic sauce, tomatoes, and cucumbers made it one of the best street foods I tried in Egypt.
● Macaroni with Bechamel and Minced Meat
My second day in Cairo, my aunt prepared an authentic Macaroni with bechamel and minced meat. She served it with slices of toast with butter, garlic, and parsley. creamy, The silky sauce on top of the minced meat tied everything together and made the meal comforting.
My other favourite Egyptian dishes are Arabian stuffed eggplants, Shish Taouk, and Shakshuka. These dishes are not only easy to prepare but are delicious and comforting.
Traditional Egyptian Foods : Egyptian Shawarma
Egyptian Shawarma is a delicious and unforgettable street food that is ranked among one of the most popular street foods in the world. Every Middle Eastern country incorporates their own spices, trying to have their own spin while preparing Shawarma. In Egypt, people make it with either chicken or beef; it’s marinated in a mix of spices, garlic, and lemon juice before being slow-cooked on a rotisserie. After the meat is cooked, they slice pieces of meat and add it on a pita bread with pickles and sauce.
My Recommended Egyptian Foods Restaurant
Egyptian cuisine has a way of bringing people together. People ask me if I know a great Egyptian restaurant near me. My recommendation would be Shawarma Kabab Egyptian and Lebanese Cuisine, located in West Chester, Pennsylvania.
I wasn’t aware whether or not authentic Egyptian foods existed in Pennsylvania, let alone a restaurant situated near me, but when I dined at Shawarma Kabab, I was amazed by the impeccable quality of their Koshari and their delicious shawarma. Their refreshing salads were the highlight of the day, as they reminded me of my memorable trip to Egypt.
