Egyptian cuisine is a captivating blend of flavors and traditions, shaped by the fertile Nile Valley and influences from the Mediterranean, Middle East, and North Africa.

Rooted in ancient agricultural practices, staple ingredients like fava beans, lentils, and a variety of fresh vegetables form the base of many iconic dishes. Aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika are generously used, adding warmth and depth to the culinary landscape. From hearty stews to flavorful dips and sweet pastries, Egyptian food offers a rich and satisfying gastronomic experience, inviting exploration of its long and fascinating history through taste. Here are 10 essential Egyptian dishes you should try:

1. Koshari

Koshari is widely regarded as Egypt’s national dish and a beloved street food staple. This hearty, vegetarian meal combines rice, lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas, all layered and topped with a spiced tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. The dish’s origins date back to the 19th century, reflecting Egypt’s multicultural influences, including Indian and Italian culinary traditions. Koshari is not only affordable and filling but also a symbol of Egypt’s diverse heritage, often enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

2. Ful Medames

Ful Medames is a traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin. Often served with chopped tomatoes, parsley, and onions, it’s typically enjoyed with warm pita bread. Ful Medames has ancient roots, believed to have been a common meal for peasants and workers in ancient Egypt. Today, it’s a staple across the Middle East and North Africa, celebrated for its simplicity, nutritional value, and cultural significance as a communal meal. 

3. Molokhia

Molokhia (aka Mulukhiyah or Melokhiyya) is a traditional Egyptian soup made from finely chopped jute leaves cooked with garlic and coriander in a flavorful broth, often accompanied by rice or bread. The dish has deep cultural roots and is cherished for its unique texture and taste. In various communities, including among Palestinian Americans, molokhia serves as a comfort food that connects individuals to their heritage and offers solace during challenging times. 

4. Mahshi

Mahshi refers to vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, eggplants, and grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat. These stuffed vegetables are simmered in a tomato-based sauce, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Mahshi is a popular dish during family gatherings and festive occasions, showcasing the Egyptian tradition of turning simple ingredients into comforting and flavorful meals.

5. Fattah

Fattah is a celebratory dish often prepared for special occasions like Eid al-Adha. It consists of layers of crispy pita bread, rice, and tender meat, all topped with a garlic and vinegar-infused tomato sauce. The combination of textures—from the crunchy bread to the soft rice and succulent meat—makes Fattah a beloved dish that embodies the richness of Egyptian hospitality and culinary tradition.

6. Taameya

Taameya, Egypt’s version of falafel, is made from crushed fava beans mixed with herbs like parsley and cilantro, then deep-fried to a crispy perfection. Unlike the chickpea-based falafel found elsewhere, Taameya has a distinct green hue and a unique flavor profile. Commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack, it’s often served in pita bread with salad and tahini sauce, reflecting the Egyptian knack for creating delicious street food.

7. Hawawshi

Hawawshi is a popular Egyptian street food consisting of spiced minced meat stuffed inside a pocket of baladi bread (similar to pita) and baked until crispy. The meat mixture typically includes onions, peppers, and a blend of spices, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal. Hawawshi showcases Egypt’s love for hearty, spice-infused dishes that are both convenient and deeply satisfying.

8. Shawarma

While Shawarma has Middle Eastern origins, it has been wholeheartedly embraced in Egypt. This dish features marinated meat—commonly chicken or beef—stacked on a vertical rotisserie, slowly roasted, and shaved off to be served in wraps or sandwiches with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables. Egyptian Shawarma stands out for its unique spice blends and the incorporation of local flavors, making it a favorite among street food enthusiasts.

9. Basbousa

Basbousa is a traditional Egyptian dessert made from semolina soaked in sweet syrup, often flavored with rose or orange blossom water. The cake is typically garnished with almonds or coconut, offering a moist and fragrant treat. Basbousa is commonly served during festive occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing the Egyptian penchant for desserts that are both simple and indulgent. 

10. Umm Ali

Umm Ali, meaning “Mother of Ali,” is a classic Egyptian dessert akin to bread pudding. It consists of layers of puff pastry or bread soaked in sweetened milk, mixed with nuts, raisins, and coconut, then baked until golden. Originating from a 13th-century tale of celebration, Umm Ali is now a staple during Ramadan and other festive events, cherished for its rich, comforting flavors.