Must-try Dishes
Foul Medames - Egyptian Fava Beans (breakfast staple) - A hearty mix of slow-cooked fava beans, garlic, lemon, and olive oil, often served with pita on the side. Locals typically enjoy it for breakfast, slathered with extra tahini and a sprinkle of cumin.
Koshari - Koshary (filling street food) - A vibrant blend of rice, lentils, pasta, and topped with a spiced tomato sauce and crispy onions. This classic sidewalk dish is usually consumed for lunch; locals aren't shy to customize it with extra chili garlic sauce.
Mahshi - Stuffed Vegetables (main course) - Zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of seasoned rice and spices, often simmered in a tomato sauce. Families serve this dish during special meals, and it's a favorite at gatherings, bringing everyone together.
Molokhia - Molokhia (local specialty) - A thick, herbal stew made from finely chopped jute leaves, often flavored with garlic and served with rice or bread. It’s commonly enjoyed for dinner, especially during the colder months, making it a cozy family dish to gather around.
Kebda Eskandarani - Alexandria Liver (surprising combination) - Spicy sautéed liver dusted with an array of seasonings, served on fresh baladi bread, often garnished with pickles. This street food choice is popular for late-night snacks; I once tried it from a vendor while walking home – what a punch of flavor!
Qatayef - Stuffed Pancakes (seasonal variation) - These fluffy pancakes are filled with nuts or sweet cheese and then fried or baked until golden, commonly enjoyed during Ramadan. Locals indulge in them after iftar, bringing a festive spirit to the evening meals.
By the way, don't be surprised when you see locals adding more garlic than you'd expect to many dishes; it's practically a rite of passage here!
Desserts & Drinks
Karkadeh - كركديه (hibiscus tea) - A vibrant, tart beverage made from dried hibiscus flowers, served hot or cold depending on the season. In Cairo, it’s a must-have during Ramadan, often sweetened and shared among family after Iftar.
Saida - سَيّدة (smooth mint lemonade) - A refreshing drink combining fresh mint, lemon juice, and sugar, served chilled over ice. Locals savor this in bustling cafes during the stifling summer months, a perfect remedy for the heat while chatting with friends.
Umeshu - أوميشو (sweet plum wine) - A sparkling, fruity wine made from Japanese plums, typically enjoyed chilled. You'll often see it at celebrations like weddings or during festive gatherings, accompanied by light finger foods, but careful not to drink it too quickly - the sweetness can sneak up on you!
Kahk - كعك (festival cookies) - Crispy, crumbly cookies filled with nuts or dates, traditionally made during Eid festivities. They're usually served dusted with powdered sugar and enjoyed alongside cups of tea, making every bite feel like a celebration.
- These are golden, crispy balls soaked in syrup, served chilled and sometimes garnished with pistachios. Street vendors whip them up as a treat, especially during joyful occasions like weddings and birthdays; they’re a satisfying indulgence!
