Top 7 Traditional Foods to Try in Egypt

Just like missing Egypt’s pyramids is a huge miss, skipping its food would be too. Your trip to Egypt would feel incomplete if you don’t try Egyptian cuisine, which offers a unique burst of flavours in each bite. Here are 7 must-try traditional dishes in Egypt.

1. Koshari

Koshari is one of the most comforting staple foods in Egypt. This famous national dish is made with pasta, rice, chickpeas, lentils, tomato sauce and is often topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a simple yet flavourful dish which is a must-try while you’re in Egypt.

Where to Eat: At Local Koshari shops in Cairo, Giza and Alexandria

Best for: A quick and budget-friendly meal

2. Ful Medames

Ful Medames is a traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from slowly cooked fava beans. It is usually seasoned with lemon juice, garlic and cumin. Many locals eat it with warm baladi bread. 

Where to Eat: At local breakfast spots in Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Aswan, or from busy street stalls.

Best for: Breakfast before a sightseeing day

3. Taameya

Taameya is a beloved version of falafel but made with fava beans instead of chickpeas. The outside layer is crisp while the inside remains soft and green because of herbs such as coriander and parsley. 

Where to Eat: At local falafel shops and breakfast cafés across Egypt. 

Best for: Breakfast plates and vegetarians looking for authentic flavours

4. Molokhia

Molokhia, also commonly known as Mulukhiyah, is a green soup with a slightly silky texture. It is made with finely chopped jute leaves cooked with coriander and garlic, giving a delectable and savoury taste.

Where to Eat: Traditional Egyptian restaurants in Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Aswan.

Best for: Travellers trying local distinctive flavours

5. Mahshi

Mahshi is a homely Egyptian meal which is herby, soft and lightly spiced. It is made with vegetables such as courgettes, aubergines and peppers stuffed with seasoned rice. It’s often served as a hearty, homely meal. 

Where to Eat: Home-style and traditional Egyptian restaurants 

Best For: Family meals 

6. Fattah

Egyptian fattah is a celebratory dish often served during special occasions, and religious festivals such as Eid al-Adha. It has a rich, tangy and meaty taste and generally includes layers of crispy bread, meat, rice, topped with a garlic-vinegar tomato sauce. It has strong flavours.

Where to Eat: Traditional Egyptian restaurants and grill restaurants 

Best For: Meat lovers and festive meals

7. Umm Ali

Travellers who have a sweet tooth must try Umm Ali while enjoying their trip to Egypt. This is one of the most loved desserts made with layers of milk, pastry, nuts, sugar and sometimes coconut or raisins. 

Where to Eat: Dessert shops, hotel restaurants and traditional Egyptian cafés.

Best For: Dessert after dinner and celebrations

Tips for Trying Traditional Egyptian Food

• Choose Busy Food Stalls: Go to stalls that appear clean, have a steady flow of customers and are serving freshly prepared food.
• Request for Mild Spices: If you have low spice tolerance, add chilli sauce in small amounts.
• Mention Food Allergies: Confirm the ingredients before ordering your food, as some dishes commonly include milk and other common allergens. 
• Drink Bottled Water: Choose sealed bottled water and avoid adding ice unless you know it was made with safe water. 
• Carry Cash: Carry some cash (Egyptian Pound), as many local food stalls and restaurants prefer cash over cards.