When we think of Egypt we think of the Pyramids, pharaohs, and ancient temples, … But when we think of Egyptian food, it’s not so well known.
With Mediterranean, North African, and Middle Eastern influences, the dishes of Egypt are rich and wholesome and combine hearty staples with plenty of heat, spice, and kick.
If you are a food lover like us, then you should try one of the dishes on this list!

Aish Baladi


Hawawshi
We had a delicious Hawawshi at Zööba in Cairo.


Ta’meya
Ta’meya is the Egyptian Falafel. It looks like falafel but instead of chickpeas, they make it with fava beans.
It’s one of the most popular street food in Egypt. You can eat them for breakfast or as a snack. Ta’meya balls are often stuffed into a sandwich.
We had the best Ta’meya at Zööba in Cairo.


Koshary
It is popularly found on the streets and served in carts and restaurants.
It is a layering of rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas topped with tomato sauce, garlic, vinegar, and fried onions. It’s one of the cheapest and most filling meals in Egypt.
You can find the best Koshary at Abu Tarek in Cairo.


Kebda Eskandarani
The liver is often stuffed in a sandwich but it can be eaten on its own with white rice, and lime.
You can find Kebda Eskandarani in every restaurant in Egypt.

Ful Medames

Hamam Mahshi
They usually serve Hamam Mahshi on special occasions such as weddings, but you can always find it in traditional Egyptian restaurants.
We had a delicious Hamam Mahshi at the Mövenpick Hotel in Aswan.


Besarah


Molokhia


Macaroni Béchamel


Feteer
We had a delicious feteer with cheese and vegetables at feteera in Cairo.


Basbousa
Basbousa is a sweet, syrup-soaked semolina cake. The semolina batter is baked in a sheet pan, then sweetened with orange flower water, rose water, or syrup.
We had a delicious Basbousa in the Mövenpick Hotel in Aswan.


Mahalabia


Umm Ali
Umm Ali means “mother of Ali”. It’s named after the first wife of Izz al-Dib Aybak, a Mamluk sultan from the 13th century.
We had a delicious umm Ali at Trianon in Alexandria.


Roz Bel Laban
It can be served warm or chilled and is typically eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
We had a delicious roz bel laban at Sofra in Luxor.


Fresh Juice


Mint Tea


We hope you enjoyed this list! Have you ever tried one of these dishes, or which one would you love to try? Let us know in the comment section below.