Easy Egyptian food recipes.
CategoriesTraveling Tips By Mark Rezkalla

7 Easy Egyptian Food Recipes: Koshari, Hawawshi, .. with Calories!

Table of Contents

Most of our Egypt travelers or even culinary explorers wish to know the secrets behind Egyptian recipes of the dishes they try throughout their trip in Egypt.  

And when they go back, they often try to tackle those recipes themselves. But here’s the catch: Almost 95% of websites that offer Egyptian food recipes aren’t Egyptian at all, thus they don’t have our expertise or know the secrets we know as Egyptians of making Egyptian dishes the right way! 

And if you tried other websites’ way, all what you get is a Mediterranean or a completely different version of what your tasting buds should find.

And to save your time, we’ve gathered for you the top 7 delicious Egyptian foods and recipes that you won’t help stop making them. 

What Makes Egyptian Recipes Worth Trying? 

From the dawn of history, Egyptian cuisine has its own fingerprint and unique taste that has made it known globally for its authenticity and deliciousness.

  

Just as we mentioned earlier in “What Makes Egyptian Food Unique?”, and after surveying our professional chefs, we can say that trying Egyptian recipes isn’t only a matter of eating food, it’s a whole new cultural experience that will leave you amazed!

Additionally, each of the Egyptian recipes has a long history, dating back hundreds and even thousands of years.

This can be seen easily on the temples’ wall paintings and carvings that depict the making of Baladi Bread and Areesh Cheese in:

Two ancient Egyptian workers making Egyptian Baladi bread.
Two ancient Egyptian workers making Egyptian Baladi bread.
Ancient Egyptian Areesh cheese found in tombs in Egypt.
Ancient Egyptian Areesh cheese found in tombs in Egypt.

Read the full guide of the Top 20 Traditional Dishes of Egypt You Can’t Miss.

What are the Top Egyptian Food Recipes with Step-by-Step Instructions (with calories)?

Now, we’ll take your hands and walk you through our chefs’ best recipes for each of the Egyptian food and recipes that will give you the delicate taste of each ingredient.

Koshari Egyptian Food Recipe (450 ~ 500 Calories/ dish)

Koshari, Kushari, or Koshary, all refer to the one and only national dish of Egypt, which you can find in every corner and street, and as an Egypt visitor, you’ll definitely fall in love with it from the first bite.

Egyptian Koshary is the most Egyptian popular food, and cosists of pasta, rice, onion, tomato sauce, and chickpeas.
Egyptian Koshary is the most Egyptian popular food, and cosists of pasta, rice, onion, tomato sauce, and chickpeas.

What is Koshari made of?

Koshari is mainly made of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, tomato sauce, and fried onions, and is usually served with garlic vinegar, chili sauce, and Koshari toast (Egyptian Shamy bread fried in oil).

The Koshari recipe brings together simple ingredients in a unique and harmonious combination that’s built in layers, each adds texture and flavor. Here is the Koshari recipe in detail:

  1. White rice, which forms the base, gives body and balance.
  2. Brown lentils, cooked and mixed with the rice for a protein-rich layer.
  3. Macaroni & Pasta, specifically elbow macaroni that makes it extra filling and hearty.
  4. Chickpeas, a small handful of boiled chickpeas, sprinkled on top.
  5. Tomato Sauce with garlic, vinegar, and cumin that ties the taste together and adds depth.
  6. Crispy Fried Onions, and this is the final touch and the topping consisting of golden, crunchy onions, adding its signature to the flavor.
  7. OPTIONALLY, add Hot Chili Sauce or Garlic Vinegar Sauce (known as Daqqa in Arabic), which is a tangy dressing that boosts the flavor.

How to Make Egyptian Koshari Recipe Step by Step?

  1. Cook the Base
    • White rice and brown lentils are boiled separately until tender.
    • Cook pasta and set aside.

       

  2. Prepare the Toppings
    • Chickpeas are boiled (or use canned chickpeas, just rinse and warm them).
    • Onions that are thinly sliced and then fried until they get a golden-brown color and become crispy.

       

  3. Make the Tomato Sauce
    • A tangy sauce is made with tomatoes, garlic, cumin, vinegar, and spices.
    • Adjust chili or hot pepper for desired spiciness.

       

  4. Final Touches (Assembling the Dish)
    • Start with rice and lentils.
    • Add pasta, then chickpeas.
    • Pour the spiced tomato sauce generously on top.
    • Finish with crunchy fried onions.
    • Serve the dish with da’qqa (garlic vinegar sauce) or chili sauce as side toppings.

Egyptian Hawawshi Recipe (350 – 450

Calories/ sandwich)

Hawawshi is one of the most delicious and authentic sandwiches you’ll ever try if you’re a mincemeat lover!

In Egypt, you’ll find Hawawshi easily as a street food or a local restaurant, served hot with tahini, pickles, or a side salad. 

Egyptian Hawawshi is among the best Egyptian dishes list and it is Aish Baladi bread filled with meat and vegetables.
Egyptian Hawawshi is among the best Egyptian dishes list and it is Aish Baladi bread filled with meat and vegetables.

What is Hawawshi made of? 

In short, Hawawshi is essentially made of baladi bread (Egyptian bread) stuffed with a seasoned minced meat mixture, then baked or grilled until it gets its unique golden color.

And the seasoned minced meat mixture typically includes:

  • Ground beef or lamb
  • Onions (finely chopped)
  • Garlic
  • Fresh parsley and coriander
  • Green chili or bell pepper (optional)
  • Spices such as cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

The bread soaks up the flavorful juices of the seasoned minced meat mixture as it bakes, creating a crunchy exterior and a juicy interior. Some variations add a touch of ghee or butter to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients of Egyptian Hawawshi

  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef or lamb.
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced.
  • 1 green chili or bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • ½ cup fresh parsley and coriander, chopped.
  • 1 tsp cumin.
  • 1 tsp paprika.
  • ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
  • Salt and black pepper, to adjust the taste.
  • 4 – 5 pieces of baladi bread (or pita bread if baladi isn’t available)
  • 2 tbsp butter or ghee (optional, for brushing)

     

How to Make Egyptian Hawawshi Recipe Step by Step?

  1. Prepare the filling in a bowl, mix ground meat with onion, garlic, chili, herbs, and spices until well combined.
  2. Stuff the bread by cutting open each piece of baladi bread halfway and filling generously with the meat mixture.
  3. Seal, press, and brush the bread slightly to seal, then brush with a little butter or ghee for extra crispiness.
  4. Bake in a preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  5. Serve hot with tahini or pickles.

     

Remember: It’s best to enjoy Egyptian Hawawshi fresh from the oven, as it still has its crunchy bread and juicy fillings inside. It’s one of the most loved Egyptian street food recipes and a must-try for travelers and foodies exploring traditional Egyptian dishes.

Egyptian Molokhia Recipe (350-450

Calories/ dish)

The Egyptian Molokhia is a must-try classic dish made from finely chopped jute leaves cooked into a delicate green soup flavored with garlic and coriander. This dish is one of the most traditional Egyptian food recipes, often served with rice, chicken, or rabbit.

Egyptian Molokhia is a stew and consists of molokhia leafs cooked with garlic and coriander.
Egyptian Molokhia is a stew and consists of molokhia leafs cooked with garlic and coriander.

Ingredients for Egyptian Molokhia

  • 400g (14 oz) frozen or fresh molokhia (jute leaves), finely chopped
  • 1 whole chicken (or rabbit), boiled for broth
  • 6–7 cloves of minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped coriander.
  • 3 tbsp butter or ghee.
  • Salt and black pepper.

How to Make Egyptian Molokhia Recipe Step by Step? 

  1. Prepare the broth by boiling chicken (or rabbit) in salted water until cooked, then strain and keep the broth.
  2. Cook the molokhia in a pot by adding the chopped molokhia to hot chicken broth. Stir gently and simmer (do not over-boil) until the soup thickens.
  3. Make the ta’leya (garlic-coriander sauté) in a small pan by melting the butter, and then add the garlic & coriander and fry until golden and fragrant.
  4. Combine all by pouring the ta’leya into the molokhia pot and stir well, and finally, season with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve hot into bowls with rice or bread, alongside pieces of chicken or rabbit.

Serving Tip

Try a final touch of squeezing a lemon for extra freshness. Remember, this is a remarkable dish that’s deeply tied to traditional Egyptian cooking culture and suits anyone exploring authentic Egyptian food recipes.

Egyptian Ful Medames Recipe (300-350

Calories/ dish) 

Among the dishes we highly recommend for our travelers for breakfast is the fabulous Egyptian Ful Medames (aka. fava beans), as it’s considered one of Egypt’s oldest and most traditional dishes, dating back to the ancient Egyptian era. 

Fava beans, aka "Ful Medames" in Egyptian language. made from mashed boiled fava beans and spices like salt, cumin, and lemon.
Egyptian Ful Medames, one of the most famous Egyptian food recipes for breakfast.

Ingredients for Egyptian Ful Medames

  • 2 cups dried fava beans (or 2 cans cooked fava beans, drained)
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for serving)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, onions, boiled eggs, or tahini
  • Served with warm baladi bread (pita).

     

Wondering what else you can eat for breakfast? 

Know the full list of breakfast dishes for Egyptians and eat like an Egyptian!

What is the Ful Medames Recipe Step by Step?

  1. Cook the beans if you’re using dried fava beans; soak overnight, then simmer until soft. If using canned, rinse and heat gently right away.
  2. Mash lightly using a fork or potato masher; mash the beans into a coarse.
  3. Season with garlic, cumin, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust flavor as you prefer.
  4. Serve the dish warm with Egyptian baladi bread or pita.

Serving Tip

Pair the Ful Medames dish with ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel) or boiled eggs for a more hearty, authentic Egyptian meal.

Egyptian Falafel Recipe (aka. Taameya) (400–500 calories/sandwich)

The Egyptian Falafel recipe, which is locally known in Egypt as Taameya, is an Egyptian street food recipe that’s known as a delicacy to both locals and travelers. Falafel consists mainly of fava beans and fresh herbs, giving it a lighter, greener, and more flavorful taste.

Taameya, aka Egyptian falafel is made from fava beans and among the very well known traditional dishes of Egypt.
Taameya, aka Egyptian falafel is made from fava beans and among the very well known traditional dishes of Egypt.

Ingredients of Egyptian Falafel (Ta’ameya)

    • 2 cups dried split fava beans (soaked overnight)
    • 1 medium chopped onion, 
    • 4 – 5 cloves minced garlic.
    • 1 cup of mixed fresh parsley, dill, and coriander.
    • 1 tsp cumin.
    • 1 tsp coriander powder.
    • ½ tsp baking soda.
  • Salt and black pepper.
  • Vegetable oil for frying.
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for coating)

What is the Egyptian Falafel Recipe Step-by-Step?

  1. Soak fava beans in water overnight until softened and drain well.
  2. Blend the mixture in a food processor by adding beans, onion, garlic, and herbs until it turns into a thick paste.
  3. Season with cumin, coriander, baking soda, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture rest for 30 minutes.
  4. Shape the falafel into small patties or balls. Optionally coat with sesame seeds.
  5. Fry until golden in a deep pan, and fry patties until crisp and golden brown on both sides.
  6. Serve hot inside baladi bread (Egyptian pita) with salad, tahini, or Ful Medames.

Serving Tip

Egyptian falafel is often paired with Ful Medames for a complete Egyptian breakfast. And this unique use of fava beans makes it stand out as one of the most authentic traditional Egyptian food recipes.

Egyptian Lentil Soup Recipe (180-220

Calories/ dish)

The Egyptian Lentil Soup recipe, which is locally known as Shorbat Ads, is a winter dish known as a warm, hearty, and nutritious dish made with red lentils, vegetables, and spices, and is considered one of the most common authentic Egyptian foods and recipes, and is often enjoyed in winter and during Ramadan for its comforting and filling qualities.

Egyptian Lentil soup mixed with lemon and crunchy bread is a staple meal in the Egyptian cuisine.
Egyptian Lentil soup mixed with lemon and crunchy bread is a staple meal in the Egyptian cuisine.

Ingredients of Egyptian Lentil Soup

  • 1 cup of rinsed red lentils.
  • 1 large chopped onion. 
  • 2 cloves of minced garlic. 
  • 1 diced carrot.
  • 1 chopped tomato.
  • 1 tsp cumin.
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter.
  • Salt and black pepper.
  • Lemon for serving.
  • Baladi bread for dipping

What is the Egyptian lentil soup Recipe Step-by-Step?

  1. Sauté the vegetables in a pot, heat olive oil or butter, and sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and tomato until all are softened.
  2. Add lentils, broth, cumin, and turmeric. And as it boils, simmer for 20–25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
  3. Blend for smoothness using a hand blender to puree until smooth or your preferred texture.
  4. Season with salt and pepper and adjust thickness with more broth if needed.
  5. Serve warm into bowls with warm baladi bread.

Lentil Soup Serving Tip

Try serving Lentil soup with fresh lemon as it adds a refreshing, unique taste to the dish.

Egyptian Kofta Recipe (450 – 550 Calories/sandwich)

Egyptian Kofta is a juicy, smoky, and full of flavor traditional Egyptian food, which smell will hook you from miles away as it’s grilled and it’s mainly made from ground meat mixed with onions, herbs, and spices, then shaped into skewers and grilled. This delicacy is a staple in Egyptian kitchens and is often served at celebrations and family meals.

Egyptian kofta recipe
Egyptian Kofta Sandwich

Ingredients for Egyptian Kofta

  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef or lamb.
  • 1 medium grated and drained onion.
  • ½ cup fresh, finely chopped parsley.
  • 2 cloves of minced garlic. 
  • 1 tsp cumin.
  • 1 tsp coriander powder.
  • ½ tsp cinnamon.
  • Salt and black pepper.
  • Skewers.

What is the Egyptian Kofta Recipe Step-by-Step?

  1. Prepare the mixture in a large bowl by mixing ground meat with onion, parsley, garlic, and spices until well combined.
  2. Shape the kofta by taking small portions of the mixture and molding them around skewers into sausage-like shapes.
  3. Grill the kofta by preheating the grill or pan and cooking the kofta skewers over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through (about 10–12 minutes), turning occasionally.
  4. Serve hot with rice, salad, or warm baladi bread.

Serving Tip

Try serving Egyptian Kofta with tahini sauce, grilled vegetables, or rice dishes like Sayadiya.

FAQs

1. How to make ancient Egyptian food recipes?

Ancient Egyptian food recipes focused on bread, beans, and stews. A simple version is lentil soup or flat baladi bread baked over clay. These traditional dishes of Egypt inspired modern Egyptian foods and recipes like Ful Medames and Koshari, which remain central to Egyptian cuisine.

2. How to make Egyptian food recipes?

To make Egyptian food recipes, start with staples like fava beans, rice, lentils, and bread. Popular Egyptian cooking recipes include Koshari Egyptian Food Recipe, Ful Medames, and Egyptian Hawawshi. Many are simple Egyptian food recipes using basic spices like cumin and coriander, making them easy to cook at home.

3. What is Egypt’s most popular food?

Egypt’s most popular food is Koshari, a mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas topped with spiced tomato sauce and crispy onions. As the national dish of Egypt, this recipe appears in nearly all guides to traditional dishes of Egypt and is a must-try for travelers.

4. What is the national dish of Egypt?

The national dish of Egypt is Egyptian Koshari, a hearty street food made of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and tomato sauce. Among all Egyptian food dishes, Koshari best represents the country’s identity, combining history, affordability, and bold flavors in one traditional meal.

5. What is the Egyptian special dish?

A special Egyptian dish is Hawawshi, baladi bread filled with spiced minced meat and baked until crisp. Alongside Koshari and Molokhia, it highlights the variety of Egyptian dishes recipes. These Egyptian foods and recipes are staples in households and popular as street food.

6. What is the main meal of the day in Egypt?

In Egypt, the main meal of the day is lunch. Families often share traditional dishes of Egypt, such as Mahshi, grilled meats, Fatta, or Egyptian Hawawshi. These hearty Egyptian foods and recipes form the center of Egyptian hospitality and daily eating habits.

7. What do Egyptians eat for breakfast?

A traditional Egyptian breakfast includes Ful Medames, Taameya (Egyptian falafel), baladi bread, and pickled vegetables. These Egyptian food dishes are among the easiest Egyptian food recipes to prepare, and they remain staple Egyptian dishes recipes served across the country.

8. What is the most famous dessert in Egypt?

The most famous Egyptian dessert is Umm Ali, a bread pudding made with pastry, milk, nuts, and sugar. Other popular Egyptian food and recipes for desserts include Basbousa, Konafa, and Rice Pudding. These traditional dishes of Egypt are tied to festivals and family gatherings.

9. What are common Egyptian dishes?

Common Egyptian food dishes include Koshari, Ful Medames, Taameya, Molokhia, Mahshi, Egyptian Hawawshi, grilled meats, and lentil soup. These staples appear in most Egyptian food recipes, easy to prepare at home, reflecting the essence of Egyptian foods and recipes enjoyed daily.

10. What is Egypt’s most famous dish?

Egypt’s most famous dish is Koshari Egyptian Food Recipe, a combination of lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and spiced tomato sauce. It is the highlight of traditional dishes of Egypt and appears in nearly all collections of Egyptian dishes recipes as the country’s signature meal.

11. What is the oldest Egyptian dish?

The oldest Egyptian dish is lentil soup (Shorbat Ads), dating back to around 4000 BC in ancient Egypt. Archaeological findings show that lentils were a staple crop and often cooked into hearty soups. This dish remains central in traditional dishes of Egypt and is still one of the most common Egyptian food recipes today.

A picture of a food blogger blogging Egyptian popular dishes such as koshary, Aish baladi bread, molokhia, ful medames & taameya, areesh cheese, and much more.
CategoriesTips & Tricks Traveling Tips By Mark Rezkalla

You’ll Regret Missing: 20 Traditional Dishes of Egypt

Table of Contents

It’s a disappointment to see the spread of false news of traditional dishes of Egypt, especially when it comes from a prestigious website like “Egypt Adventures Travel”, as it insinuates that Egyptian cuisine isn’t that popular in the U.S. 

According to the latest statistics, there are over 165 restaurants in the USA that offer a wide variety of Egyptian dishes that are like no other and much better than other Middle Eastern cuisines that have already included some of them as if they originated in their countries brazenly! 

And if you’re planning to visit Egypt, we have prepared for you this thorough guide that will walk you through the many types of traditional Egyptian food, so you may have a few suggestions for eating out in Egypt and have a delicious & authentic trip to Egypt. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through the full list of Egyptian popular food for each meal, what makes the traditional dishes of Egypt unique, and tips that you’ll definitely need for eating out in Egypt.

 

An Overview of Traditional Egyptian Food

In general, each time you try a traditional Egyptian food, you’ll find yourself as if you’re tasting history itself, as each Egyptian dish is at least 300 years old, so every bite is fused with history and flavors.

And this is because no matter how many ages came across Egypt, the Egyptians are attached to their heritage and roots more than any other nation. 

For example, while excavations in the ancient Memphis area between the years 2013 and 2014, scientists found a solid whitish mass in a jar that, when analyzed, they found it’s a mixture of goat and cow milk, and dates back to almost 3200 years, making it the world’s oldest cheese!

World's oldest cheese found in ancient Egyptians' tombs and known as Areesh cheese.
Areesh cheese, as it was found in an ancient Egyptian tomb proving that Egyptians were the first to make cheese.

Not only that, but ancient Egyptians also depicted the process of cheese-making on the wall paintings and dating back to 2000 BC, among other food recipes that are still made this very day. 

And whenever you think of Egyptian food culture, you’ll find 2 things that characterize it:

A social gathering

It’s not just meal time, it’s the time of the day when family members gather to see each other and keep their humanitarian bond held together.

People used to sit around low tables called “Tablya” or on mats, and mostly eat menu staples like fish, vegetables, bread, and leave chicken and meat for festivals.

The traditional Egyptian table known as "Tablya", and it is made of wood mostly with a round shape used by Egyptians for thousands of years for dining and family gatherings for food.
“Tableya”, the Egyptians authentic table. Mostly with a round shape made from wood and Egyptians used it for thousands of years for serving meals and families’ gathering.

Today, more cultural events have been added to the Egyptian calendar, and thus, other chances have become available for gatherings and connecting meals. 

For example, during Ramadan, Muslims gather either for Iftar or Suhur, starting the meal with a fresh juice and dates after long fasting times, and ending it with desserts like Konafa and Qatayef.    

Also, other occasions are mostly linked with other traditional Egyptian food like family gatherings, weddings, religious feasts (both Islamic and Christian), or even regular friends’ gatherings, all are known for certain Egyptian dishes for every occasion, and reflecting Egypt’s deep-rooted value of humanitarian relationships and hospitality.

Unique Staples for a Unique Flavor 

Egyptian food is uniquely known for the staples that are added to the main ingredient of the dish. 

And in every meal, herbs leave their signature in the flavor and representing both simplicity and depth.

For example, onion, garlic, coriander, and dill flavor stews in the past much the same way they do now, creating a strong link between the kitchens of the past and the present.

These staples aren’t just recipes — they’re edible symbols of Egyptian identity, passed down through generations.

What Makes Egyptian Food Unique? 

Each time you try the Egyptian food, you’ll find it’s like no other. 

And this isn’t only the Egyptians’ opinion, but also Christian Berger’s, Head of the EU Delegation to Egypt, as he tried Molokhia, he said that he tried many recipes of it from worldwide, but the Egyptian Molokhia is the best he has ever tasted! 

Each meal of the Egyptian dishes dates back thousands of years, and in every bite, you’ll feel a rush that fills your nerves from the unique mixture of flavors, culture, and history. 

Besides, here are a few reasons that make traditional Egyptian food and modern Egyptian dishes truly stand out in the worldwide cuisine:

Egypt’s Geography

The fertility of the Egyptian lands provided the right conditions for many of the plants that constitute the Egyptian food, like Wheat & Barley, besides the many legumes like Beans & Lentils.

Also, ancient Egyptians knew how to include all kinds of proteins in the Egyptian cuisine from meat & chicken in everyday meals, along with fish, either from the Nile, the Red Sea, or the Mediterranean Sea, ensuring both nutritional and flavor richness of the traditional Egyptian food. 

Seasonal Variety

In Egypt, each season is known for certain dishes that suit the weather. 

For example, in winter, Egyptians tend to eat warming Egyptian food like lentils and red sauce dishes, like Koshari, Fattah, Bamia (Okra Stew), and Egyptian pasta.  

And in summer, Egyptians tend to foods that are light and keep them refreshed to beat the heat, besides the fresh juices.

But no matter the season, most dishes are customary like Baladi bread, fava beans (ful medames), Taameya, Molokhiya, and much more form the foundation of the traditional Egyptian food and modern favorites.

Correct Use of Spices

Ancient Egyptians knew the different effects of each spice on food and what each dish needed; thus, they created the correct formulations of spices that make your taste buds explode in flavors each time you eat any Egyptian popular food.  

For example, coriander adds a fresh earthiness to food, cumin adds warmth, and cinnamon gives a gentle sweetness to the dish. All that helped get the best taste out of the main ingredients of the Egyptian food. 

Thus, whenever you try traditional Egyptian food, you’ll find that each dish has its own collection of spices that emphasizes the taste of the dish, like Fava beans (ful medames), Lentil, or Mahshi. 

Egyptian Dishes for Each Meal You MUST Try

Egyptian cuisine is known to be very tidy, and certain Egyptian dishes are tied to certain meals throughout the day, unlike some cuisines, where any dish can appear at any time.   

And even though each dish is a beauty in itself, Egypt has a wide range of varieties of dishes in each meal, such that you’ll never get bored. 

Starting with breakfast and continuing all the way to inner time, you’ll find countless delicacies that you’ll never forget.


Top 20 Traditional dishes of Egypt You Can’t Miss

What Egyptians Eat for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner?

Breakfast (Futur)

For Egyptians, breakfast is an energizing meal that boosts them during the day and keeps people full until the afternoon. 

Among the common morning Egyptian breakfast dishes are:

  • Taameya (Falafel), which is chopped green fava beans and fried until they turn into golden color.
Taameya, aka falafel is made from fava beans and among the very well known Egyptian food dishes.
Egyptian most famous street food: Taameya, aka falafel and it’s crispy with unique taste made from fava beans.


  • Ful Medames, which is slowly-cooked fava beans, and flavored with salt, oil, cumin, lemon, and might substitute oil with Tahini.
Fava beans, aka "Ful Medames" in Egyptian language. made from mashed boiled fava beans and spices like salt, cumin, and lemon.
Ful Medames, one of the most famous traditional dishes of Egypt for breakfast.
  • Aish Baladi (Baladi Bread), which is a type of bread that’s mostly warm, with a rounded shape, and accompanies almost every breakfast dish.
Aesh baladi is the traditional Egyptian bread and a staple thing in every meal.
Aesh Baladi or Sourdough bread, the traditional Egyptian bread.


  • Areesh Cheese (Cottage cheese) & Tomatoes, a refreshing mixture of White Cheese, and often served with Baladi Bread.
Areesh Cheese, the oldest cheese in the world.
Areesh cheese, one of the best and healthiest cheese in the world.


  • Shakshuka, among the top traditional dishes of Egypt, consists of boiled eggs and spiced tomato sauce along with onions, garlic, and peppers.
Shakshuka is one of the most delicate Egyptian dishes and is made of soft-boiled eggs mixed with tomato sauce.
Shakshuka is one of the most delicate Egyptian dishes and is made of soft-boiled eggs mixed with tomato sauce.


  • Eggah, and as the name speak of itself, it is a thick Egyptian dish that consists of omelette and is baked with herbs and spices like pepper, salt, and cinnamon
Eggah is an traditional Egyptian dish that consists of eggs, herbs, and vegetables.
Eggah, a must try traditional Egyptian dish that consists of eggs, herbs, and vegetables.


  • Pickled vegetables, a popular side dish that makes the breakfast table colorful and a bit salty.
Pickled vegetables is a staple side dish in the Egyptian cuisine, and it could be carrot, cucumber, onion, chili, green pepper.
Pickled vegetables is a staple side dish in Egyptian cuisine.

Lunch (Ghada)

Lunch is traditionally known as the most important meal of the day, and where most or all family members share the table. 

Among the top traditional dishes of Egypt for lunch:

  • Koshary, and it’s considered number Egypt’s most popular food and consists of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and crispy onions topped with vinegar and tomato sauce.
Koshary, the most Egyptian popular food, and cosists of pasta, rice, onion, tomato sauce, and chickpeas.
Koshary, the most Egyptian popular food, and cosists of pasta, rice, onion, tomato sauce, and chickpeas.


  • Molokhia, which is the most Egyptian stew and consists of molokhia leafs cooked with garlic and coriander, and mostly served with either rice or bread.
Molokhia is an Egyptian stew and consists of molokhia leafs cooked with garlic and coriander.
Molokhia, one of the most famous Egyptian popular food.


  • Okra (Cairo Style), and it’s a tomato-heavy version of okra, where it gets stewed with garlic, tomato paste, and spices, and usually cooked with lamb or beef in the same pottery casserole.
Bamia red sauce is a tomato-centered version of okra, stewed with garlic, tomato paste, and spices.
Egyptian Bamia (Okra) with tomato sauce.


  • Okra (Upper Egypt Style), a simpler and more rustic version of okra, where it gets cooked in a garlic-coriander sauce, allowing the okra’s flavor to shine.
Egyptian Green Bamia stew, which is a simple version of okra, where it gets cooked in a garlic-coriander sauce.
Egyptian Green Bamia (Okra) stew.


  • Mahshi, different kinds of stuffed vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or vine leaves, and each gets filled with herbs and rice.
Mahshi is an Egyptian popular food that consist of vegetables stuffed with rice and herbs.
Mahshi


  • Grilled Meats (Shish Kabab), a popular dish during festivals and celebrations.
Shish Kebab is an Egyptian meal consists of grilled lamb meat and vegetables.
Delicious Shish Kebab is a must try Egyptian dish.


  • Fatta, one of the most popular Egyptian food that consists of layers of rice, crispy bread, meat, and broth, and is topped with garlic vinegar sauce.
Fattah is an authentic Egyptian food for lunch meal consists of rice, meat, and crispy bread, all are topped with tomato sauce.
Fattah is an authentic Egyptian food for lunch meal.


  • Seafood, and it’s more related to coastal cities like Alexandria, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh, and consists of grilled fish, seafood soup, shrimps, crabs, crawfish, or fried calamari, usually served with rice and salad.
Seafood is a known meal in coastal cities in Egypt.
A delicious Egyptian dish consists of shrimp, grilled fish, crabs, and more.

Dinner (Asha)

Dinner is considered the lightest meal in Egypt, though still filling. Mostly, dinner includes some of the most delicious Egyptian dishes, including:

  • Hawawshi, which is minced meat baked inside baladi bread.

Hawawshi is among the best Egyptian dishes list and it is Aish Baladi bread filled with meat and vegetables.

Hawawshi consists of Aish Baladi filled with meat and vegetables.

  • Shawarma rolls, a quick & flavorful Egyptian sandwich of meat or chicken.
Shwarma is great Egyptian dish for dinner, consists of meat or chicken, vegetables, along with Tahini sauce.
Shwarma rolls of meat or chicken with vegetables.


  • Kebda Eskandarani (Alexandrian Liver) Sandwich, a grilled & popular street food specialty mostly popular in Alexandria, is made with thin slices of beef liver sautéed with garlic, cumin, peppers, and stuffed into baladi bread.
Kebda Eskandarani is a very popular Egyptian sandwich that's cooked with chili, spices, garlic and other vegetables.
Egyptian Kebda Eskandarani Sandwich


  • Lentil Soup (Shorbet Ads), a warming dish that’s mostly popular during the winter.
Egyptian traditional Lentil soup mixed with lemon and crunchy bread.
Sorbet Ads (Lentil soup)


  • Cheese, vegetables, and bread, a simple and quick dinner choice for families.

Tips for Travelers for Eating Out in Egypt 

If you’re planning to visit Egypt and try different Egyptian popular food, you’d better have some prior knowledge of a few tips to help you be prepared in every possible way in a foreign country and prepare yourself like meal timing, food hygiene, cost of eating out in Egypt, and help you get the most out of such a cultural experience that you’ll see in the hospitality and Egyptians’ traditions.

And to save you time and effort, we prepared some practical tips for each traveler should know before dining in Egypt.

1. Food Prices in Egypt – Cost of Eating Out in Egypt

Food prices range isn’t that much for tourists as most food options are affordable, even at the fanciest places, and it depends on what you’re into:

  • Street food: From $1 – $3 (Ful Medames, Taameya, Koshari).
  • Mid-range restaurants: From $5 – $10 per person.
  • Luxurious dining: From $20 – $40 per person, and this is mostly at hotels, fancy restaurants, and Nile cruises.

2. Best Time for Each Meal

Egyptians’ table is slightly different than what Western travelers may expect:

  • Breakfast (7:00 – 10:00 AM): Which is the best time to get a fresh breakfast meal, especially if you’re trying traditional dishes of Egypt like Ful Medames, Taameya, and Baladi Bread, and most locals prefer to grab their sandwiches from street vendors on their way to work.
  • Lunch (2:00 – 4:00 PM): It is the time when restaurants are at their busiest time of the day, as it’s the heaviest meal of the day.
  • Dinner (8:00 – 10:00 PM): This is the time when you can get a lighter and calmer meal, while enjoying the nighttime vibes of the city.
  • Egyptian Street Food Snacks (All Day): And this is when you can get a meal on the go from Koshari shops, juice street vendors, and hawawshi small restaurants that are open almost 24 hours.

3. How to Find Authentic Local Spots

Although restaurants in Egypt can be found on every street and at every corner, there are only a few that can fascinate you with the charm of popular traditional dishes of Egypt, and they are like hidden gems that require searching for. 

Here’s where you can find them:

  • Look for busy places: If a restaurant has long queues, then it’s a sign that there’s something good around the corner.
  • Ask locals: Most people in the neighborhood can lead you to the right places, whether you ask a taxi driver, hotel staff, or your tour guide.
  • Avoid touristic traps: Whenever you visit a historical place, you’ll find some close restaurants where they often serve overpriced food with less authenticity. Remember, better options for Egyptian popular food reside only a few meters away.
  • Regional specialities: Each city in Egypt is famous for certain dishes. For example, Cairo is known for hidden koshari shops or ta’ameya stalls; in Alexandria, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh are famous of seafood restaurants; and in Luxor, you can enjoy Egyptian grilled corn.

4. Food Hygiene Tips for Tourists

Though the traditional dishes of Egypt are delicious and flavorful, each time you should be aware of your personal hygiene, especially when trying food from street vendors, and in general:

  • Avoid drinking from cups from the street water coolers and bring your own cup instead, or you can save yourself the hassle and drink from bottled water.
  • Unless the restaurant is trusted, skip salads and choose cooked food over raw.
  • Always eat at busy vendors or restaurants, as busy means fresh food.
  • Cleanse your hands regularly, either by washing or using a hand sanitizer.
  • Be careful with street juice and buy from a trusted shop, or you can stick to bottled juices if unsure.

5. Egyptian Dining Culture

As we mentioned earlier, it’s a whole culture and a social experience:

  • Hospitality: Each time you’re invited to eat with Egyptians, you’ll see them insisting you eat more than your dish.
  • Sharing: Many people prefer to share their dishes, creating a stronger bond, thus you hear Egyptians say “We’ve broken bread together”.
  • Tipping (Baksheesh): which is a small tip (5–10%) of the total price, and it is appreciated everywher,e like restaurants and cafés.

6. Vegetarian & Vegan 

If you’re a vegetarian or a vegan, then most of Egypt’s popular food will suit you, such as:

  • Ful medames
  • Taameya
  • Koshari
  • Mahshi
  • Lentil
  • Bamia
  • Molokhia

7. Drinks you should try

You can’t visit Egypt and not try its traditional beverages, such as:

  • Hibiscus tea (Karkadeh): Either hot or cold.
  • Sugarcane juice: Can be found on every street, and it’s a natural energy boost.
  • Egyptian coffee & Mint tea: Every coffee shop in Egypt offers both at a very cheap price ($1 – $3)

FAQ

What is Egypt’s most popular food?

Egypt’s most popular food is Koshari, a hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas topped with spiced tomato sauce and crispy onions. Widely available as street food, Koshari is considered a staple of traditional Egyptian food and is loved by locals and travelers alike.

What is the famous Egyptian dish?

The most famous Egyptian dish is Koshari. It represents Egyptian street food culture with its affordable ingredients and bold flavors. Other famous traditional dishes of Egypt include Ful Medames (fava beans) and Ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel).

What is the national food of Egypt?

The national food of Egypt is Ful Medames, which is made from slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, and garlic. Eaten mainly for breakfast, Ful is one of the oldest traditional Egyptian foods, dating back to ancient times.

What are three traditional Egyptian dishes?

Three traditional Egyptian dishes are:

  • Koshari: Egypt’s national comfort food made of grains and lentils.
  • Molokhia: A green stew of jute leaves flavored with garlic and coriander.
  • Taameya: Crushed fava beans mixed with herbs like parsley, cilantro, and dill, then deep-fried until crispy.

What is Egyptian bread called?

Egyptian bread is called Aish Baladi, which means “local bread”. It is a round, whole-wheat flatbread similar to pita but thicker and more rustic. Aish Baladi is a cornerstone of every traditional Egyptian food as it is eaten with almost every meal.

What is the national dish of Egypt that is usually eaten at breakfast?

The national dish of Egypt that is often eaten at breakfast is Ful Medames. Made from boiled fava beans with olive oil, lemon, and spices, and it is a nutritious and filling dish. It is the most traditional Egyptian breakfast food and widely enjoyed across the country.

What do Egyptians eat for breakfast?

A traditional Egyptian breakfast usually includes Ful Medames (fava beans), Taameya (Egyptian falafel), Aish Baladi bread, cheese, eggs, and fresh vegetables. These dishes reflect Egypt’s popular food culture and give travelers a taste of authentic, everyday Egyptian cuisine.

What is the most popular drink in Egypt?

The most popular drink in Egypt is black tea, often served strong and sweet. Other widely enjoyed traditional Egyptian drinks include Egyptian Coffee, karkadeh (hibiscus tea), sugarcane juice, and sahlab (a warm milk-based drink). All are staples of Egyptian culture and daily life. 

What are the ranges of Egypt food prices?

Egypt’s Food prices range isn’t that much for tourists, as most food options are affordable, even at the fanciest places, and it depends on what you’re into:

  • Street food: From $1 – $3 (Ful Medames, Taameya, Koshari).
  • Mid-range restaurants: From $5 – $10 per person.
  • Luxurious dining: From $20 – $40 per person, and this is mostly at hotels, fancy restaurants, and Nile cruises.