Egypt is a country that has a rich and diverse culinary heritage that dates back to ancient times. Egyptian cuisine is influenced by the geography, climate, culture, and history of the country and by the cuisines of neighboring countries and regions. Egyptian food uses fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, legumes, vegetables, and bread. In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most delicious and popular types of Egyptian food that you should try when you visit Egypt .
Bread
Bread is a staple food in Egypt and an essential part of every meal. Egypt has different types of bread, but the most common is aish baladi, a round flatbread made from whole wheat flour baked in a clay oven. Aish Baladi is used to scoop up dips, sauces, and stews or to make sandwiches with various fillings. Other types of bread in Egypt include:
Aish Shamsi:
A white flatbread made from refined wheat flour that is softer and thinner than aish baladi.
Aish Fino:
A small bread roll similar to a French baguette but softer and lighter.
Aish Merahrah:
A flatbread made from millet flour that is common in rural areas.
Eish Saraya:
A sweet bread pudding soaked in sugar syrup and topped with nuts and cream.
Feteer Meshaltet:
A flaky pastry made from thin dough brushed with butter or ghee and baked in an oven. It can be eaten plain or with sweet or savory fillings.
Falafel
Also known as Tamiya, falafel is a deep-fried patty made from ground fava beans or chickpeas mixed with parsley, onion, garlic, and spices. It is served with bread, tahini sauce, salad, or pickles as a sandwich or appetizer.
Koshari
A dish of rice, brown lentils, macaroni, fried onions, and spicy tomato sauce that is considered the national dish of Egypt. It is a filling and cheap meal that can be found in street stalls and restaurants all over the country.
Mulukhiyah
A soup made from chopped mallow leaves cooked with garlic, and coriander. It has a thick, slimy texture and a bitter taste balanced by lemon juice. It is served with rice, bread, and roasted chicken or rabbit as a main course.