When you travel to Egypt, you are not just exploring ancient temples—you are diving into a rich, flavorful culinary history. Egyptian cuisine is a delicious, hearty blend of Middle Eastern spices, Mediterranean freshness, and unique local traditions.
If you want to eat like a true local during your trip, here are the top 5 must-try Egyptian dishes you cannot leave without tasting.
1. Koshary: The National Dish
You simply cannot visit Egypt without eating Koshary. This beloved, carb-heavy street food is a surprisingly addictive mix of lentils, macaroni, rice, and chickpeas. It is topped with crispy fried onions and smothered in a tangy, spiced tomato sauce and a splash of garlic vinegar. It is cheap, filling, and entirely vegan!
2. Ful Medames & Taameya (The Egyptian Falafel)
This is the breakfast of champions in Egypt. Ful Medames is a rich stew of slow-cooked fava beans flavored with olive oil, cumin, and lemon juice. It is almost always served alongside Taameya—the Egyptian version of falafel. Unlike the chickpea falafel found in the Levant, Taameya is made from crushed fava beans, making it incredibly light, fluffy, and green on the inside.
3. Shawarma
While found across the Middle East, Egyptian street shawarma has its own unique flair. Massive spits of marinated beef or chicken are slowly roasted, shaved off, and wrapped in fresh bread with tahini, tomatoes, and parsley. It is the ultimate late-night snack after a long day of sightseeing.
4. Molokhia
This is a dish that divides travelers, but locals absolutely swear by it! Molokhia is a thick, dark green soup made from finely chopped jute leaves, cooked with a heavy dose of garlic and coriander in chicken or rabbit broth. It has a unique, slightly viscous texture and is traditionally poured over rice and roasted chicken.
5. Om Ali: The Ultimate Dessert
Leave room for dessert! Om Ali (which translates to "Ali’s Mother") is Egypt’s luxurious answer to bread pudding. It is made with layers of flaky pastry, soaked in hot, sweetened milk, and baked with nuts, raisins, and a heavy dollop of fresh cream on top.
Taste the Best of Egypt with Romantic Travel
Want to experience the true flavor of Cairo? Let Romantic Travel guide your culinary journey! Our expert local guides know exactly where to find the cleanest, most authentic street food, the best Koshary shops, and the finest Nile-view restaurants.
Click here to contact our team today to add an authentic food tour to your Egypt itinerary!
