Egyptians don’t skimp when it comes to food! Whether it’s dinner in a local’s home, a sit-down restaurant, or the resort buffet- you will not leave feeling hungry, guaranteed! While exploring a new destination there are some important things that you should know regarding the local food culture, food safety, and more!
Egyptian Staples
- Shawarma- beef, lamb or chicken that has been stacked and cooked on a giant rotisserie-before served, it is shaved and put into a wrap, pita, or placed over rice (Shawarma is a MUST TRY!) This is very similar to the popular Turkish doner or Mexican Al Pastor.
- Koshary- a deliciously complex mix of pasta, rice, lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions topped with a vinegar dressing (I know-it sounds crazy, but it’ll blow your mind!) **If you’re in Cairo, try the famous Koshary Abou Tarek which started from a street cart in the 1950’s and is now a well-known restaurant chain.
- Kofta-rolled meat (lamb or beef) mixed with herbs and grilled (purely delicious!)
- Samak (fish)– whether you prefer fried or grilled, you cannot go wrong with seafood!
- Ful (fool) and Falafel- Egyptian beans and balls of fried chickpeas mixed with herbs are typically eaten with Egyptian bread for a tasty, fulfilling, and inexpensive breakfast.
- Molokhai-a soup like appetizer that is typically eaten over rice or with bread. It may be an acquired taste. It consists of minced Molokhai (a plant known as Egyptian spinach), broth, garlic, and coriander.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves-made with rice, herbs, and minced meat (or without) and rolled into a grape leaf. It’s then boiled in a broth until everything is well cooked (These are a personal favorite of mine! Know with every bite came a lot of love because these are not easy to roll!)
- Macaroni Bechamel– think of Egyptian lasagna- layers of pasta, minced meat, bechamel sauce, and cheese (So yummy!!)
- Hawawshi-an Egyptian meat pie consisting of beef mixed with herbs that is spread into dough, folded, then baked!
- Kebda– fried beef liver served on a Feeno roll
- Aseer– freshly made juice you can find at many local shops and restaurants-strawberry, mango, sugar cane are just a few of the most popular
Tips to Keep You Feeling Great!
- Refrain from eating street food, even if it looks good! Street food can be prepared in unhygienic conditions, and your stomach may not have the best reaction to unfamiliar foods.
- According to the CDC you should keep these Food and Drink Considerations When Traveling | Travelers’ Health | CDC.
- If you end up with a stomachache while traveling, stick to HOT and starchy foods like pizza, bread, etc. See the local pharmacy for medicine!
- Always stay hydrated when traveling, especially in hot climates and NEVER drink tap water- you will be able to find bottled water at any shop nearby!
FAQS
Are there food delivery services in Egypt?
Yes! In some areas, especially Cairo, you can use a popular food delivery service (similar to Uber Eats) called Talabat! Order from local fast-food restaurants or grocery delivery.
Just download the app on your phone! Talabat
Can I order pork in Egypt?
Pork is not commonly consumed in Egypt and will be very hard to come across.
Can I consume alcohol in Egypt?
Yes! While harder to find in rural areas, resort areas and big cities like Cairo will have bars and liquor shops.