Egyptian Cuisine: Traditional Dishes You Must Try

Egyptian cuisine is a sensory journey that has its roots in a millennia-old history, blending flavors and traditions that reflect the cultural richness of the country. With influences ranging from the Middle East to the Mediterranean, Egyptian dishes are an explosion of colors and aromas, perfect for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience. From exotic spices to fresh local ingredients, Egyptian cuisine offers a variety of dishes that satisfy every palate. Discover the unique flavors and traditional dishes that make Egyptian gastronomy a must for food lovers.

What dish is typical of Egypt?

When talking about Egyptian cuisine, the dish that emerges as a symbol of culinary tradition is ‘koshari‘, followed by ‘ful medames‘. The former is an iconic dish that skillfully combines simple ingredients to create a unique tasting experience. Koshari is made up of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, all topped with a spiced tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It is a dish that tells the story of the Egyptian people, born out of the need to create a nutritious and substantial meal with inexpensive and easily available ingredients. Koshari is loved by everyone, from locals to tourists, and can be easily found in every corner of the country, from street stalls to the most refined restaurants. Its popularity is due not only to its delicious flavor but also to its ability to represent the essence of Egyptian cuisine: simple, genuine, and rich in flavor.

Ful medames, on the other hand, is a fava bean puree, often consumed at breakfast, seasoned with oil, garlic, lemon, and parsley. A nutritious and flavorful dish, considered the national dish of Egypt and traditionally consumed at breakfast, served with toasted bread. Trying koshari and ful medames is an experience that goes beyond a simple meal; it is an immersion in Egyptian culture and tradition.

What meat is typical of Egypt?

When thinking of Egyptian cuisine, the typical meat that comes to mind is lamb. This prized ingredient is a fundamental pillar of the country’s culinary tradition, valued for its versatility and rich flavor. Lamb is often used in iconic dishes such as ‘Kofta’, delicious spiced meatballs that are grilled to perfection, and ‘Fattah’, a sumptuous dish that combines lamb meat with rice, bread, and an aromatic tomato sauce.

Lamb meat is carefully selected, ensuring the highest quality and freshness, to offer a sensory journey that enhances the authentic flavors of the region. Egyptian cuisine, however, is not limited to lamb; beef and chicken are also widely used, often accompanied by exotic spices like cumin and coriander, which give the dishes a unique and unmistakable character.

What is the typical dish of Sharm El Sheikh?

Sharm El Sheikh also offers a culinary journey that never disappoints. Among the traditional dishes that every visitor should taste, “Fattah” (which means “crushed” or “crumbs”) stands out, a delight that embodies the essence of Egyptian cuisine. This dish, often served during celebrations and festivities, is a harmonious combination of rice, crispy bread, and meat, usually lamb or chicken, all enriched with a tomato and garlic sauce that gives it a unique and enveloping flavor. Fattah is a sensory experience that reflects the cultural richness and millennia-old history of Egypt, making it a must for those who wish to immerse themselves in local tradition.

Usually, fattah is served at major celebrations such as weddings, the birth of a child or the end of Ramadan. This dish is often served accompanied by molokhia, a sauce or soup made from the edible leaves of a variety of jute.

What is Egyptian cuisine like?

Egyptian cuisine is a fascinating journey through authentic flavors and millennia-old traditions, reflecting the history and culture of the country. Among the most famous specialties, koshari, a dish of rice, lentils, and pasta, enriched with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions, represents a true symbol of Egyptian cuisine. Equally fascinating is ful medames, a dish made from fava beans, often served with olive oil, garlic, and lemon, which embodies the simplicity and genuineness of local flavors.

For those who love desserts, basbousa, a semolina cake soaked in sugar syrup, offers a sweet conclusion to an unforgettable meal. Egyptian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, based on vegetables, legumes, spices, and bread. Bread accompanies many traditional dishes.

Staying at Domina Coral Bay means not only enjoying unparalleled luxury but also discovering the culinary richness of this extraordinary country. During the day you can visit Sharm El Sheikh or take a boat trip, but in the evening you can enjoy relaxation and traditional dishes of Egyptian cuisine right at our resort.

In our facility, every detail is designed to offer you the utmost comfort and elegance. Located in one of the most fascinating destinations in the world, Domina Coral Bay is not just a hotel, but a true refuge of tranquility and beauty: your dream vacation awaits you.