Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. From street food to fine dining, the city has something to offer for every taste and budget. In this food lover’s guide, we will explore some of the most popular and delicious dishes that you should try when visiting Cairo.
One of the most iconic dishes of Egyptian cuisine is ful medames. This traditional breakfast dish is made with fava beans that have been slow-cooked with spices and herbs. It is typically served with bread, tomatoes, and onions, and can be garnished with a variety of toppings such as tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice.
Another popular dish is koshari, which is a staple street food in Cairo. It is a hearty mixture of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garnished with crispy onions. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
For meat lovers, shawarma is a must-try. This Middle Eastern staple is made by stacking meat (usually chicken or beef) on a spit and roasting it until it is tender and flavorful. The meat is then shaved off and served in a wrap or pita bread with various toppings such as tahini, garlic sauce, and pickles.
Another popular meat dish is kofta, which is made from ground meat (usually beef or lamb) mixed with spices and herbs. The mixture is shaped into balls or sausage-like shapes and grilled or fried. It is often served with a side of rice or vegetables.
For those looking for a taste of traditional Egyptian flavors, molokhia is a must-try. This dish is made from a leafy green vegetable called molokhia, which is cooked with chicken or rabbit and flavored with a variety of spices and herbs. It is typically served with rice and is considered one of the most popular dishes in Egypt.
For dessert, baklava is a sweet and flaky pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup. It is a popular dessert throughout the Middle East and is a must-try when visiting Cairo.
When it comes to drinks, Egypt is famous for its tea. The traditional way of serving tea is with mint leaves and sugar, and it is often enjoyed with a side of traditional Egyptian sweets such as dates or konafa.
Cairo is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of delicious and authentic dishes. From street food to fine dining, there is something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for traditional Egyptian flavors or a taste of international cuisine, Cairo has it all. So, when visiting the city, make sure to try some of these delicious dishes and drinks, and let your taste buds explore the flavors of Cairo.
