Essential Egyptian Dishes to Try for Visitors

When planning a trip to Egypt, one of the most exciting aspects is sampling the vibrant and diverse regional foods. This article delves into two must-try dishes that should not be missed, as well as other delightful culinary offerings.

Recommended Regional Foods in Egypt

When visiting Egypt, there are two regional foods that you definitely should try. Koshari and Fattah are not only delicious but also deeply rooted in the local culture, offering a unique taste of Egyptian cuisine.

Koshari: Egypt's National Dish

Koshari, the national dish of Egypt, is a hearty and flavorful combination of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. This dish is widely popular and can be found on street food stands and in local eateries. It is both filling and affordable, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal.

Experiencing Koshari

When you visit Egypt, make sure to try Koshari. It not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a cultural experience. The layers of different ingredients create a delicious and satisfying taste. Its popular street food nature means you can easily find it in almost any part of the country, from Cairo to Luxor.

Fattah: A Special Occasion Dish

Fattah is a traditional dish that is typically served during special occasions and celebrations. It consists of layers of rice and meat, often lamb or beef, topped with a garlic and vinegar sauce. The dish is often accompanied by crispy bread. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a beloved dish among locals.

Experiencing Fattah

For a truly special experience, try Fattah. It is a delightful dish that offers a unique and comforting flavor. If you visit Egypt during a celebration, you may have the chance to try it in its intended context, adding to the cultural experience.

Additional Egyptian Dishes to Explore

While Koshari and Fattah are undoubtedly the highlights, there are many other delicious dishes to try during your visit to Egypt. Here are some additional recommendations:

Kabab Kofta and Tasima Salad

Kabab Kofta, a popular skewered meat kebab, and the Tasima Salad, made with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and a dressing, are great options. Both dishes offer a different taste and can be enjoyed as a side or a main course. Try them alongside other traditional dishes to get a full taste of Egyptian flavors.

Whole Wheat Bread and Teas

Egyptian cuisine wouldn't be complete without trying some of its traditional bread and teas:

Whole Wheat Bread (Eish Baladi): A real treat, served with all meals. It can also be toasted and served with fresh butter and Egyptian natural honey or orange marmalade. Egyptian Tea: Best enjoyed without sugar. It is strong, making it an excellent way to experience the real taste of black tea.

Grilled Meats and Fish Specialties

Grilled meats and fish are some of the finest in the Middle East:

Barbequed Chicken: Top the list, often served with French fries or duck. This is a must-try as it is the best you will ever eat. Barbequed Fish: Stuffed with vegetables, a great choice for seafood lovers. Scawdyah: Fried or barbequed fish served with brown rice cooked with onions. This dish is famous and delicious, a flavor that lingers in memory. Mulukhayia: A spinach and onion-like dish, often featuring chicken, duck, or lamb. It is a delightful taste worth experiencing. Kufta: Barbecued ground round/lamb hamburger meat, cooked with vegetables, potatoes, green beans, tomatoes, and onions. Usually served with rice.

Meat and Rice Dishes

There are various meat and rice dishes in Egyptian cuisine:

Osal: Pieces of tender lamb barbecued on a stick. Egyptian Steak: From Egyptian steers, a real treat when enjoyed on a trip. Fatta: A sauce dip made from fava beans, served with fresh hot Egyptian bread. Perfect for cold winter nights. Bamiyah: Okra, cooked in several different ways with lamb, chicken, or just tomatoes and onions. My favorite, usually served with Egyptian white rice. Stews: Various chicken, duck, or fish stews, cooked by villagers with a great sauce made from the meat. Egyptian Tie: Slowly baked, a real treat that is enjoyed by many. Lamb: Whole lamb cooked for several hours with onions and potatoes. Rice Dishes: Made from Egyptian round rice, featuring meat, chicken, chick peas, green peas, green beans, and various other ingredients.

Conclusion

The culinary delights of Egypt are vast and varied. Whether you're craving something savory, sweet, or just need a quick bite, there's an Egyptian dish to suit every palate. By trying these dishes, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich and diverse culture of Egypt.

So, when planning your trip, make sure to include Koshari, Fattah, and the other delicious dishes mentioned. Your taste buds and your cravings will thank you!