1. What are the most popular dishes in Egypt?

The most popular dishes in Egypt include:

1. Kushari: a hearty vegetarian dish made with rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.

2. Koshari: grilled minced meat (such as lamb or beef) served on skewers with vegetables and rice.

3. Ful medames: a stew of cooked fava beans, often served with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

4. Ta’meya (Egyptian falafel): deep-fried balls of ground fava beans mixed with herbs and spices.

5. Shawarma: thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or beef) cooked on a spit and served in pita bread with vegetables and sauce.

6. Mahshi: stuffed vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, or eggplant filled with spiced rice and sometimes meat.

7. Mulukhiyah: a thick soup or stew made from the leaves of the molokhia plant, typically served over rice.

8. Molokhia Fried Rice: an Egyptian twist on traditional fried rice that includes dried molokhia leaves for added flavor.

9. Fattah: a layered dish of bread, rice, tomato sauce, and meat topped with garlic yogurt sauce.

10. Umm Ali: a sweet dessert made from layers of phyllo pastry and nuts soaked in milk and cream.

2. How does the local cuisine in Egypt differ from neighboring countries?

The local cuisine in Egypt is heavily influenced by neighboring countries, especially from the wider Middle East and Mediterranean regions. However, there are some distinct differences that set Egyptian cuisine apart:

1. Use of herbs and spices: Egyptian cuisine makes abundant use of herbs and spices such as cumin, coriander, mint, parsley, and dill. These impart a unique flavor to their dishes.

2. Use of legumes: Legumes like lentils, fava beans, and chickpeas are staples in Egyptian cuisine. They are often cooked in stews or used to make dips like hummus or falafel.

3. Wheat-based dishes: Egyptians consume a lot of wheat-based dishes like breads, pasta, couscous, and burghul (cracked wheat). These are used as accompaniments to main dishes or as a base for salads.

4. Seafood: Due to its location on the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, seafood is a popular part of Egyptian cuisine. Grilled fish and shrimp are common dishes in coastal areas.

5. Street food culture: Egypt has a strong street food culture with vendors selling everything from kushari (a mix of macaroni, rice, lentils and chickpeas) to grilled meats skewers (called kababs) on every corner.

6. Sweet treats: Egyptians have a sweet tooth and their desserts reflect this. Popular sweets include baklava (layers of filo pastry filled with nuts), basbousa (a semolina cake soaked in syrup), and ma’amoul (shortbread cookies stuffed with dates or nuts).

Overall, Egyptian cuisine has a unique blend of flavors that combines elements from various cultures while still maintaining its own distinct identity.

3. Can you recommend any must-try dishes in Egypt?

There are many delicious dishes in Egypt, but some of the must-tries include:

1. Koshari: This is a popular street food made with rice, lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas topped with a spicy tomato sauce and fried onions.

2. Ful Medames: This hearty breakfast dish is made with fava beans, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil and is often served with pita bread.

3. Molokhia: This leafy green soup is made with jute leaves cooked in a broth of chicken or rabbit until it becomes thick and smooth.

4. Mahshi: These stuffed vegetables (usually grape leaves) are filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices and then cooked in tomato sauce.

5. Shawarma: Grilled meat (usually beef or chicken) shaved off a rotisserie and served in pita bread with toppings like tahini sauce and pickled vegetables.

6. Baba Ghanoush: This dip is made from roasted eggplant mixed with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and spices.

7. Umm Ali: Considered the national dessert of Egypt, this sweet dish is made from layers of puff pastry or phyllo dough soaked in milk or cream and topped with nuts, raisins, and sugar syrup.

8. Fattah: A traditional celebratory dish in Egypt made from layers of crispy bread topped with meat (beef or lamb), rice, tomatoes, vinegar-based sauce, garlic yogurt sauce,and fried onions.

9. Hawawshi: Another popular street food consisting of pita bread stuffed with spiced ground meat (usually beef or lamb) cooked on a grill until crispy on the outside.

10. Om Ali: Literally meaning “Mother Ali”, this sweet bread pudding-like dessert is made from layers of phyllo dough soaked in milk or cream combined with nuts such as pistachios, almonds, and hazelnuts.

4. In what ways has globalization influenced traditional cuisine in Egypt?

1. Increased Availability of ingredients: Globalization has made it easier for Egyptian chefs and home cooks to access different types of ingredients from around the world. This has led to the incorporation of new flavors and ingredients into traditional dishes.

2. Fusion Cuisine: Due to the increased availability of ingredients, there has been a rise in fusion cuisine in Egypt where traditional dishes are combined with elements from other cuisines such as Italian, French, or Asian.

3. Street Food Culture: With the rise of international food chains and fast-food restaurants, street food culture has also been influenced by globalization. Egyptian street vendors now offer a variety of international snacks such as burgers, shawarmas, or kebabs alongside traditional street foods like falafel and koshary.

4. Changing Eating Habits: As a result of globalization, there has been an increase in Western-style eating habits in Egypt. More people are eating out at restaurants or ordering food for delivery rather than preparing traditional meals at home.

5. Incorporation of new cooking techniques: The spread of global media has introduced Egyptians to different cooking techniques used in other countries, leading to experimentation and adoption of these techniques in traditional recipes.

6. Culinary Tourism: Globalization has made it easier for tourists to visit Egypt and try its traditional cuisine. This has led to the adaptation of some local dishes to cater to the taste preferences of international visitors.

7. Influence on Street Food Vendors: Many street food vendors have started offering dishes that cater specifically to tourists, blending both local and international flavors.

8. Introduction of International Cuisines: With the growth of tourism and foreign influence, there has been an influx of international restaurants offering cuisines such as Chinese, Italian, Thai, etc., which have become popular among locals as well.

9. Changes in Agricultural Practices: To meet the demand for certain ingredients globally, Egypt’s agriculture industry has changed its practices to produce crops that cater to international markets. This has led to changes in the availability and production of traditional ingredients.

10. Convenient Food: The rise of globalization has also brought about an increase in convenience food options in Egypt, such as frozen meals and packaged snacks. This has had an impact on traditional cuisine as people opt for quick and easy meal options, rather than traditional dishes that may require more time to prepare.

5. Are there any regional variations in cuisine within Egypt?

Yes, there are a few regional variations in cuisine within Egypt. Some of the most notable are:

– Northern Egyptian cuisine, which is heavily influenced by Mediterranean and Levantine flavors due to its proximity to those regions. It also incorporates a lot of seafood and grilled meats.
– Southern Egyptian cuisine, which is known for its spicier and more complex flavors, with dishes typically including ingredients such as chili peppers, coriander, cumin, and garlic.
– Delta cuisine, which includes a lot of rice-based dishes and tends to be milder in flavor compared to other regions.
– Oasis cuisine, which uses a variety of local ingredients such as dates, figs, and olives in recipes that have been passed down through generations.

These regional differences are also influenced by the availability of certain ingredients in different parts of the country. For example, coastal regions have easy access to seafood while inland areas rely more on meats and grains. Additionally, cultural influences from neighboring countries such as Sudan and Libya can also be seen in some regional cuisines.

6. Which ingredients are commonly used in Egypt’s cuisine?

Some common ingredients used in Egypt’s cuisine include:

1. Wheat: Egypt is known as the “bread basket” of the Middle East, and wheat is a staple ingredient in many dishes, including bread, pasta, and couscous.

2. Rice: Rice is another staple ingredient in Egyptian cuisine, often served alongside savory stews and meat dishes.

3. Beans and legumes: Fava beans, chickpeas, and lentils are all commonly used in Egyptian cuisine, either as main ingredients or in soups and stews.

4. Fresh herbs and spices: Cilantro, parsley, dill, cumin, coriander, garlic, and onions are frequently used to add flavor to Egyptian dishes.

5. Olive oil: Olive oil is a popular cooking oil in Egypt and is often used in salads and dips like hummus and baba ghanoush.

6. Meat and seafood: Lamb, beef, chicken, fish, shrimp, and squid are all commonly consumed meats in Egypt’s cuisine.

7. Vegetables: Tomatoes, eggplants (known as “aubergines”), bell peppers, zucchini (known as “courgette”), squash, onions, and garlic are some of the most commonly used vegetables in Egyptian dishes.

8. Bread: Flatbreads such as pita or baladi are a staple food in Egypt and are often eaten with meals or used to scoop up dips and sauces.

9. Dairy products: Cheese (particularly feta), yogurt (usually served plain), butter (used mainly for baking), and milk (used primarily for making desserts) are some of the dairy products commonly found in Egyptian cuisine.

10. Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, pine nuts (known as “pignolia”), hazelnuts (known as “filberts”), cashews (known as “Indian nuts”) can be found regularly used to add texture and crunch to dishes or enjoyed as a snack.

7. Is street food a prominent part of the local cuisine in Egypt?

Yes, street food is a prominent part of the local cuisine in Egypt. There are many popular street food options that can be found in most cities throughout the country. Some of the most common street foods include falafel (deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas), koshari (a mixture of rice, lentils, and macaroni topped with tomato sauce and crispy fried onions), taameya (Egyptian-style falafel made from fava beans), and shawarma (rotisserie meat served in pita bread with toppings). Street food is very popular among locals and tourists as it is affordable, convenient, and offers a taste of authentic Egyptian cuisine.

8. Have any international cuisines been incorporated into Egypt’s traditional dishes?

Yes, there are some international cuisines that have been incorporated into Egypt’s traditional dishes. Some examples include:

1. Italian influence: Egyptians have adopted pasta and pizza dishes, as well as incorporating ingredients like tomato sauce and cheese into their cuisine. Egyptian versions of Italian dishes may also incorporate local herbs and spices.

2. Greek influence: As a result of the close relationship between Greece and Egypt in the past, certain Greek influences can be seen in Egyptian cuisine, such as moussaka (a baked eggplant dish) and baklava (a sweet pastry).

3. Turkish influence: Due to their shared Ottoman history, Turkish influences can be seen in popular Egyptian dishes such as kofta (grilled minced meat) and shawarma (roasted meat).

4. Levantine influence: Egypt shares cultural ties with countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine which has led to the inclusion of dishes like falafel (deep-fried chickpea fritters), hummus (a dip made from chickpeas), and fattoush (a bread salad) in Egyptian cuisine.

5. Indian influence: The presence of South Asian communities in Egypt has led to the incorporation of Indian flavors in some dishes like koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta, and fried onions) which may contain curry spices.

6. Chinese influence: Chinese cuisine has become increasingly popular in Egypt over the years resulting in the adoption of Chinese noodles, soups, stir-fries and more.

7. French influence: During the colonial era, French influences could be seen in some Egyptian dishes such as macaroni béchamel (baked pasta with a creamy white sauce).

8. American influence: With the growth of western fast-food chains in Egypt, American influences can be seen in certain popular dishes like hot dogs and french fries.

9. How important is food culture to the people of Egypt?

Food culture is extremely important to the people of Egypt. It is not just about nourishment but also a significant part of their social and cultural identity. Egyptians take great pride in their traditional cuisine, which reflects the country’s long history and diverse influences from neighboring regions. Food is also an essential part of social gatherings and celebrations, bringing people together and reinforcing family and community bonds. In addition, there are many symbolic meanings associated with certain foods in Egyptian culture, such as bread representing prosperity and dates representing hospitality. Overall, food culture plays a central role in daily life and serves as a way for Egyptians to connect with their heritage and traditions.

10. What are some common cooking techniques used in Egypt’s cuisine?

1. Grilling: Grilled meats and vegetables are popular in Egyptian cuisine, often cooked over an open flame or charcoal.

2. Stewing: Stews and tagines are a staple in Egyptian cuisine, usually made with beef, lamb, chicken or vegetables.

3. Baking: Baked goods such as breads and pastries are commonly eaten in Egypt. Flatbreads like pita and baladi bread are staples of the cuisine.

4. Frying: Fried dishes like falafel and koshari (a mix of rice, macaroni, lentils and chickpeas) are popular street food in Egypt.

5. Braising: Meat is often braised with vegetables like onions, tomatoes and bell peppers to create flavorful dishes such as beef tagine or molokhia (a stew made with leafy greens).

6. Roasting: Whole roasted meats like lamb or chicken are commonly prepared for special occasions or celebrations.

7. Steaming: Steaming is a popular cooking technique for vegetables and seafood dishes like shrimp tajine.

8. Charcoal Cooking: Traditional methods of cooking over hot coals is still used in certain regions of Egypt to create smoky flavors in meats and other dishes.

9. Pickling: Vegetables like turnips, cucumbers and beets are pickled in vinegar or brine to use as condiments or toppings for sandwiches and falafel.

10.Pressing/Squeezing: Citrus juices from lemons, limes, and oranges are widely used to add tangy flavor to dishes such as salads, sauces and marinades.

11. Are there any famous chefs or restaurants known for their interpretations of Egypt’s cuisine?

Yes, some famous chefs and restaurants known for their interpretations of Egypt’s cuisine include:

– Yotam Ottolenghi: The Israeli-British chef is well-known for his focus on Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, including Egyptian dishes.
– Maha Barsoom: The Egyptian chef gained fame for her modern take on traditional Egyptian dishes at her restaurant El Babour in Cairo.
– Al Khalifa Cafeteria: Located in the Khan el-Khalili market in Cairo, this restaurant is known as a popular spot for authentic Egyptian street food.
– Zooba: With multiple locations in Cairo and beyond, Zooba offers a contemporary spin on traditional Egyptian street food.
– Abou El Sid: This upscale restaurant in Cairo features a menu filled with classic Egyptian dishes.
– Malak El Tawook: This chain of restaurants specializes in grilled chicken dishes that are popular in Egypt.

12. Are there any particular foods or ingredients that are considered sacred or special in Egypt?

Yes, there are several foods and ingredients that hold cultural or religious significance in Egypt:

1. Bread (Aish): Bread is considered a staple food in Egypt and is often used to symbolize life and sustenance. In ancient Egyptian culture, bread was also seen as a gift from the gods.

2. Lentils: Since lentils are easily grown and are a good source of protein, they have held both economic and cultural importance in Egypt. They are commonly eaten during Ramadan and other special occasions.

3. Fava beans (Foul): Considered the national dish of Egypt, foul (cooked fava beans) has been a popular breakfast food for centuries due to its high nutritional value.

4. Molokhia: This leafy green has been cultivated in Egypt since ancient times and is an essential ingredient in the popular stew known as molokhia.

5. Dates: Dates have long been considered a sacred fruit in Egyptian culture, with references to their consumption dating back to ancient times.

6. Honey: Along with dates, honey was another beloved sweetener for ancient Egyptians, who believed it had healing properties.

7. Olive Oil: Olive trees were first introduced to Egypt by the Greeks and have since become an important part of Egyptian cuisine. Olive oil is used for cooking as well as for medicinal purposes.

8. Garlic and Onions: These pungent vegetables are widely used in Egyptian cooking for their bold flavor and health benefits. They were also believed to ward off evil spirits in ancient times.

9. Herbs: Many herbs hold cultural significance in Egyptian cuisine, including coriander, cumin, mint, parsley, dill, and fenugreek.

10. Pita bread: A type of flatbread made from wheat flour, pita bread is commonly used as a utensil for scooping up dips such as hummus or baba ghanoush.

11. Koshari: A popular street food dish in Egypt, koshari is a mix of lentils, rice, macaroni noodles, and tomato sauce topped with fried onions.

12. Halal Meat: As the majority of the population in Egypt is Muslim, halal meat (meat that is prepared according to Islamic guidelines) is commonly eaten and considered important in religious and cultural practices.

13. How have historical and cultural influences shaped the local cuisine of Egypt?

The local cuisine of Egypt has been shaped by a combination of historical and cultural influences throughout its rich history. Some key influences include:

1. Ancient Egyptian influence: The ancient Egyptians were known for their farming techniques and agricultural practices, which laid the foundation for traditional Egyptian cuisine. The use of ingredients like wheat, barley, and beans can be traced back to ancient times.

2. Arab influence: With the Arab conquest of Egypt in the 7th century AD, came the introduction of new spices and cooking techniques such as grilling and roasting. This greatly influenced the flavors and dishes of Egyptian cuisine.

3. Ottoman influence: Egypt was under Ottoman rule for more than 300 years, which had a significant impact on its cuisine. Turkish dishes such as kebabs, kofte, and baklava were introduced during this period.

4. Mediterranean influence: As a country located on the Mediterranean coast, Egypt has been heavily influenced by Mediterranean cuisines. Dishes such as rice-stuffed grape leaves (dolma), hummus, and falafel have become staples in Egyptian cuisine.

5. Islamic influence: The majority religion in Egypt is Islam, which prohibits the consumption of pork products. This has led to a heavy reliance on chicken, beef, fish, and lamb in traditional dishes.

6. Colonial influence: During British colonial rule in Egypt (1882-1954), European dishes like pastries and baked goods were introduced to the country’s cuisine.

7. Urbanization: With rapid urbanization over time, there has been an increase in Western influences on Egyptian cuisine such as fast food chains and ready-made meals.

8. Migration: Egypt’s geographical location at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe means that it has also been influenced by neighboring countries’ cuisines through migration of people.

Overall, these various influences have contributed to the diverse range of flavors and dishes found in modern-day Egyptian cuisine.

14. Is there a significant seafood culture in Egypt? If so, how is it reflected in local dishes?

Yes, there is a significant seafood culture in Egypt due to its location on the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. This has influenced local dishes, particularly along the coastal regions and in cities like Alexandria and Port Said.

Some popular seafood dishes in Egypt include grilled or fried fish (usually mullet or tilapia), shrimp stew, fish tagine (cooked in a clay pot with vegetables and spices), and stuffed squid. These dishes often incorporate local ingredients such as herbs, spices, and wheat products like couscous or semolina.

Seafood is also commonly served as part of mezze platters, which are shared appetizers that typically include a variety of small dishes, including fish plates like marinated anchovies or smoked salmon rolls.

In addition to these traditional dishes, international influences have also contributed to the seafood culture in Egypt. For example, sushi has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many restaurants offering a variety of Japanese-inspired seafood options.

15. Are there any regional specialties or unique dishes that can only be found in certain parts of Egypt?

Yes, there are several regional specialties and unique dishes that can only be found in certain parts of Egypt. Some examples include:

1) Molokhia: a green leafy vegetable stew that is popular in the Nile Delta region.

2) Siwa Salt Lakes Fish: a specialty dish from the town of Siwa, featuring locally-caught fish cooked with herbs and spices.

3) Baladi Salad: a salad made with fresh local produce, often found in Upper Egypt.

4) Stuffed Pigeon: a traditional dish from Luxor and Aswan, where pigeons are stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices and then cooked in the oven.

5) Feteer Meshaltet: a flaky pastry typically filled with cheese or savory ingredients, originating from Alexandria.

6) Koshari: a mixture of rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta, and topped with spicy tomato sauce; considered the national dish of Egypt.

7) Alexandrian Liver Sandwich: fried slices of liver served in pita bread with aioli sauce or tahini, popular street food in Alexandria.

16. In general, is the cuisine in urban areas different from rural areas in Egypt?

Yes, the cuisine in urban areas of Egypt is often more diverse and influenced by international cuisine compared to rural areas. Urban areas tend to have a larger variety of restaurants and street food options, catering to different tastes and preferences. Rural areas, on the other hand, often have simpler and more traditional dishes that are influenced by local ingredients and customs.

17. How do holidays and festivals influence the local cuisine of Egypt?

Holidays and festivals have a significant influence on the local cuisine of Egypt. They contribute to the diversity and richness of traditional dishes, as well as introduce new flavors and ingredients.

1. Ramadan:
One of the most important holidays in Egypt is Ramadan, which is observed by Muslims all over the world. During this month, people fast from sunrise to sunset. In the evening, families gather for Iftar (the breaking of fast) where they often have rich and elaborate feasts. Some popular dishes served during Ramadan include ful medames (fava beans), koshari (a mixture of rice, macaroni, lentils and chickpeas), and molokhia (a stew made with Jew’s mallow leaves).

2. Eid al-Fitr:
This festival marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with large feasts and sweet treats such as kunafa (a buttery pastry filled with cheese or nuts) and maamoul (cookies filled with dates or nuts). Special meat-based dishes are also prepared such as roasted lamb or beef.

3. Christmas:
Although only about 10% of Egyptians are Christian, Christmas is still widely celebrated in the country. Traditional Christmas dishes include fatta – a layered dish made with rice, bread, chicken, beef broth, garlic vinegar sauce, topped with tomato sauce – as well as cakes like basbousa (semolina cake) and baqlawa (phyllo pastry filled with nuts).

4. Islamic New Year:
The first day of the Islamic calendar is a public holiday in Egypt known as El-Hijra el-Islamiya. On this day, families often prepare special dishes such as fish tagine (spiced fish stew) or couscous with lamb.

5. Sham el-Nessim:
This ancient Egyptian holiday celebrates the arrival of spring and is usually observed by having picnics outdoors. One traditional food prepared for Sham el-Nessim is fesikh, a salted and dried fish. Other common dishes include falafel, baba ghanoush (eggplant dip), and pickled vegetables.

6. Moulid an-Nabi:
This festival celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad and is observed with grand street parades, music, and dancing. Special meals are also prepared such as mulukhiyah soup (made with Jew’s mallow leaves) and halawet el-moulid (a dessert made with semolina, milk, butter, and nuts).

7. Holiyane or Seasonal Holidays:
Egypt also has seasonal holidays that vary from region to region. In coastal towns and cities like Alexandria, seafood dishes such as grilled fish and fried shrimp are popular during summer holidays like Sham al-Naseem (the beginning of spring) or Tobaski (the Feast of Sacrifice).

Overall, holidays and festivals play a significant role in preserving traditional cooking methods and ingredients while also allowing for creativity to incorporate new flavors into Egyptian cuisine. They bring communities together through food, helping to develop a deeper understanding of Egypt’s cultural diversity.

18. Are there any dietary restrictions or customs to be aware of when dining out in Egypt?

Yes, there are a few dietary restrictions and customs to be aware of when dining out in Egypt:

1. Muslims in Egypt do not consume pork or alcohol, so it may be difficult to find dishes with these ingredients.
2. Many Egyptians follow Halal dietary laws, which prohibit the consumption of certain meats (such as pork) and require all meat to be prepared according to specific guidelines.
3. Some restaurants may offer vegetarian or vegan options, but these can be limited in non-touristy areas.
4. It is common practice for many Egyptians to eat with their hands, using bread or flatbread as utensils. However, it is also acceptable to use utensils such as forks and spoons.
5. When dining at a local’s home, it is considered polite to try a little bit of everything that is offered.
6. It is customary to leave a small amount of food on your plate at the end of the meal as a way of showing appreciation for the host’s generosity.
7. In some traditional restaurants, you may be expected to remove your shoes before entering and sit on the floor or on cushions instead of chairs.
8. During Ramadan (the Islamic month of fasting), many restaurants may have restricted hours or only offer special menus during iftar (the evening meal when Muslims break their fast).
9. When eating street food, make sure the vendor follows proper hygiene practices and that the food is cooked thoroughly before consuming it.
10. It is not customary to tip in Egypt, but leaving a small tip for exceptional service at more upscale restaurants is appreciated.

Overall, while there are some dietary restrictions and customs to keep in mind when dining out in Egypt, most restaurants will accommodate different preferences and allergies upon request. As long as you are respectful and willing to try new things, you will have an enjoyable dining experience in Egypt.

19. Do locals have specific etiquette when it comes to eating meals together? If so, what should visitors know about it?

Yes, there are some general etiquette guidelines that locals may follow when eating meals together. Here are a few things visitors should know:

1. Always wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. This shows respect and consideration for others at the table.

2. It is common to say “Bon Appétit” or “Enjoy your meal” before starting to eat.

3. When using utensils, hold them in the correct hand – fork in the left hand and knife in the right (unless you are left-handed).

4. Keep your elbows off the table while eating.

5. Take moderate portions of food – it is considered polite to leave some food on your plate rather than finishing everything.

6. Do not talk with your mouth full or chew with your mouth open.

7. If someone offers you a dish or passes you something at the table, always use your right hand to accept it.

8. It is polite to compliment the chef or host on the food and thank them for the meal.

9. Do not begin drinking until after saying “Cheers” (or equivalent) with everyone at the table – this applies particularly when drinking alcohol.

10. Make an effort to engage in conversation with everyone at the table, not just those sitting next to you.

Overall, being respectful and considerate of others while dining together is key in any culture and will greatly contribute to a pleasant dining experience for all involved.

20 .Can you recommend a restaurant that offers an authentic taste of traditional cuisine from Egypt?

One highly recommended restaurant for authentic Egyptian cuisine is the Sphinx Restaurant in New York City. The menu features a variety of dishes, including popular favorites like koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, and macaroni), falafel, shawarma, and stuffed grape leaves. They also offer traditional desserts such as basbousa (semolina cake) and konafa (shredded phyllo dough with sweet cheese). The restaurant has received positive reviews for its flavorful and authentic dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly service.