Egypt is a country steeped in history and a very interesting at that. But then what history is not interesting? And usually a nation that is steeped in history has the culinary offerings to match – just look at China and India. Quite possibly the two most well known and loved around the world cuisines in the world! And it is no surprise that these two powerhouse nations have a deep and long history to boast too. Egypt is no different. However, and unfortunately, their cuisine hasn’t reached four corners of the world in terms of popularity, but don’t be fooled – they have some amazingly unique and delicious dishes that any nation would be proud to call their own! Outside of Egypt, you have to look really hard to find an authentic Egyptian eatery. So, where can you sample some of these amazing dishes in Dubai? I will mention a couple of really good spots that have come straight from Egypt and do the most authentic Egyptian dishes.
Abu Tarek – Kushary
Youssef Zaki, better known as Abu Tarek, is known as the king of Kushary (more about this dish below). That’s the status of the man behind this legendary spot. It and he have become an icon of the Egyptian food scene. If you’re ever traveling to Egypt, you have to try Kushary and if you’re ever wanting to try Kushary, you have to try it Abu Tarek. It is the Mcdonald’s of the Kushary scene. Abu Tarek’s father passed away when he was 13 and since then he started selling Kushary from a little cart right at the corner of where the original Abu Tarek restaurant in Cairo is today. If you can’t get to Cairo, don’t worry – they have a branch in Dubai! I tried this in Dubai without actually knowing what a legend he was. I found out later. They only do one dish – all you have to do is choose the size of Kushary you want – I love this!
Kushary is the national dish of Egypt. It is a vegetarian street food dish that includes lentils, rice, pasta, a vinegary sauce, a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. A wild concoction? Some would say it sounds like last night’s left overs. But surprisingly, it actually works so well. And it is no surprise that this is the most popular dish in Egypt, the one dish that comes to everyone’s minds and bucket lists when they travel to the country. You’ll find street vendors doing this dish, you’ll find restaurants that do this dish and this dish only. The Kushary craze is real. The beauty of it is is that it is seen as an inexpensive working class dish – it will fill you up, give you the energy you need and won’t cost you that much. Humble in its nature, but extravagant in its taste and complexity.
Google Maps Location link: click here
Masmat Baha Restaurant – Molokhia and Mombar
There are more Egyptian options to choose from here at this restaurant. We got a couple more unique looking and sounding authentic Egyptian dishes from here.
1. Molokhia – a green leafy soup like dish that is consumed with bread or rice. I loved this dish. Sooo flavourful, delicious and comforting. Bengalis will recognise this dish – it is basically nali fatha (but less slimey).
2. Mombar – an Egyptian sausage dish. Made with sheep casing stuffed with rice and some meat. This wasn’t my favourite. It was strange biting into a sausage and get taste of rice. Didn’t get the sausage satisfaction with this one. Interesting nonetheless, but probably won’t get again.
Google Maps Location link: click here
