Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Cairo
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Cairo. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Koshari
Koshari is a beloved Egyptian street food dish, composed of rice, lentils, and pasta, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garnished with crispy onions. This hearty meal is a staple for locals and is often enjoyed as a filling lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Koshari reflects the rich blend of cultures in Egypt, incorporating influences from Italian, Indian, and Arab cuisines.
Where to try it
Fatta
Fatta is a traditional Egyptian dish made of layers of rice, crispy bread, and stewed beef or lamb, all topped with a garlic and vinegar sauce. It's often served on special occasions and is a symbol of Egyptian hospitality.
Ingredients
Best Time
special occasions
Cultural Significance
Fatta is often prepared during celebrations such as Eid and family gatherings, showcasing the communal aspect of Egyptian dining.
Where to try it
Mahshi
Mahshi refers to a variety of vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat. This dish is a popular choice for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Best Time
dinner
Cultural Significance
Mahshi showcases the use of fresh vegetables and herbs, which are central to Egyptian cuisine, and offers a taste of home-cooked meals.
Where to try it
Baklava
Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. Its flaky texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite dessert across the region.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Baklava is a traditional sweet enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings, symbolizing celebration and hospitality in Egyptian culture.
Where to try it
Basbousa
Basbousa is a semolina cake soaked in sugar syrup and often garnished with almonds. This dessert is known for its moist texture and sweet, aromatic flavor, making it a popular choice among locals.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Basbousa is often served during Ramadan and at festive occasions as a symbol of sweetness and celebration.
Where to try it
Sahlab
Sahlab is a warm, creamy drink made from milk and orchid tuber flour, often flavored with rose water and topped with nuts and coconut. It's a comforting beverage popular during the colder months.
Ingredients
Best Time
winter
Cultural Significance
Sahlab is a traditional drink that evokes nostalgia and warmth, often enjoyed in cafes during the chilly winter months.