Egyptian cuisine is a flavorful reflection of the country’s rich history and cultural diversity, blending ancient traditions with influences from the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean. Known for its reliance on hearty ingredients like legumes, grains, and vegetables, the cuisine offers wholesome and satisfying dishes. Staples include koshari, a popular street food made of rice, lentils, pasta, and a spicy tomato sauce, and ful medames, a slow-cooked fava bean dish seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and lemon. Flatbreads such as aish baladi accompany most meals, while meats like lamb, chicken, and fish are often grilled or stewed. Desserts like basbousa, kunafa, and om ali add a sweet conclusion, often paired with aromatic teas. Egyptian cuisine celebrates simplicity, bold flavors, and the communal spirit of dining.
In Erbil, I enjoyed Koshary, Egypt's national dish, blending lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and spicy tomato sauce, with roots tracing back to India's khichri. This iconic vegetarian dish reflects cultural fusion and has become a staple in diverse culinary landscapes. Its affordability, filling nature, and universal appeal make it popular among locals and visitors, symbolizing food's power to connect cultures through shared heritage.
Umm Ali is more than just a recipe; it’s a legacy. It’s a dish that tells a story—one of ambition, power, and the complex dynamics of women in leadership. From its violent origins to its place at the table today, Umm Ali is a testament to the power of food to preserve history, culture, and the human experience. And as you savor each bite, you’re not just indulging in a dessert—you’re partaking in a centuries-old tradition, woven with stories of love, betrayal, and strength.
Today marked the start of Vikrami Samvat and Navaratri, a Hindu festival. Amid celebrations, I received a surprise from my colleague Ali Abdul Salam: Basbousa, a delicious Middle Eastern dessert. Originating in Egypt, it's made of semolina, sugar, and coconut, soaked in fragrant syrup. This treat embodies Middle Eastern culinary tradition and the joy of sharing food.
