Egypt Food & Drinks
Food
Egyptian cuisine tells the history of Egypt in its most delicious form, being the result of conquests and interactions with many neighbouring countries. Greek, Syrian, Turkish, Lebanese and Palestinian influences can be felt and tasted in various dishes. Egypt’s coastline naturally favours fresh seafood, while inland and southern areas enjoy more spicy, North African cooking styles.
Popular dishes include:
Hamam Mahshi or Stuffed Pigeon: This is one of Egypt’s most loved dishes and consists of a pigeon that is stuffed with rice or ferek (green wheat). It is then roasted.
Dawood Basha: This dish is made with small balls of kofta (ground meat seasoned with parsley and onions). They are then cooked in a tomato sauce and served with rice and roasted pine nuts. Lamb is usually the meat of choice in this dish.
Aish Balai: To Egyptians, bread is the most important part of every meal. It is therefore not surprising that Aish translates to life. Wholemeal and white flour are mixed and then baked near an open flame to make a pita. These are then used to scoop up food or to make sandwiches with taameya or shawarma.
Koshari: This is a famous snack food sold by vendors and small shops all over Egypt. It consists of rice, lentils, fried onions and pasta that is cooked in tomato sauce. It can be spicy and sometimes, vinegar and garlic are added.
Ful Medammes: This is a popular “quick eat” type of food in Egypt. It involves slow-cooked fava beans that have been seasoned with salt, garlic, chopped parsley, lemon and olive oil, black pepper and cumin. Traditionally eaten at breakfast, it is usually served with aish.
Drink
Tea is Egypt’s national drink, while coffee is part of the traditional welcome. Karkadeh is a traditional drink made from boiling dried red hibiscus flowers, the water is then chilled. Sugar is added and this drink can also be enjoyed hot as herbal tea. Karkadeh is high in vitamin C and minerals. Aseer asab or sugar cane juice is another very popular drink found in almost all fruit juice vendors. Despite being a predominately Muslim country, alcohol is still readily available in Egypt. However, during Ramadan, only Western-style hotels, pubs and restaurants will sell alcohol.
Things to know:
Tips, known as baksheesh in Egypt, are expected for all services provided. Transfers, luggage assistance and guided tours are all tipped per journey. Around 10% is acceptable in restaurants.
Drinking age:
21
Egypt Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Egypt.
Learn about the history and culture of Egypt, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Egypt's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, and 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Egypt for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Egypt tours today!
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