Explore the flavors of ancient Egypt with these 18 authentic recipes, carefully curated to bring a taste of the past into your modern kitchen. From hearty stews and soups to sweet treats and savory snacks, this collection of recipes takes you on a culinary journey through time.
For centuries, Egyptian cuisine has been shaped by its rich cultural heritage, combining influences from Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and African traditions. The result is a unique blend of flavors that is both familiar and exotic. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of ancient Egyptian cooking, featuring recipes that use traditional ingredients like lentils, barley, dates, and honey to create dishes that are both delicious and authentic.
Ful Medames with Garlic and Lemon
Ful Medames is a traditional Egyptian dish made from fava beans, garlic, and lemon. This recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor to the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fava beans
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fava beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse again.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the soaked fava beans to the pot, along with lemon juice and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the fava beans are tender.
5. Season with black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Barley Bread with Honey and Dates
Sweet and savory Barley Bread with Honey and Dates is a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of barley with the natural sweetness of honey and dates. Perfect for a snack or as a side to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cooked barley
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, cooked barley, salt, and sugar.
3. Add yeast mixture (1 packet active dry yeast dissolved in 1 cup warm water) and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough on a floured surface and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Brush with honey and sprinkle chopped dates on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil Soup with Cumin and Coriander
This flavorful soup is a perfect comfort food for any time of the year, packed with nutritious lentils, aromatic spices, and a hint of warm cumin and coriander. A great way to get your daily dose of fiber and protein!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Dukkah-Crusted Roasted Duck
Elevate your duck game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the spices of Middle Eastern dukkah with a crispy, roasted exterior. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) duck breast or legs
– 2 tbsp dukkah spice blend
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the duck and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Mix dukkah spice blend with a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Rub the dukkah mixture all over the duck, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the duck and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Place the duck on a roasting rack or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 3-4 lb duck.
Egyptian Fig and Honey Cake
This moist and sweet cake is a traditional Egyptian delight, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs (or dried)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until smooth. Add egg and mix well.
4. Stir in chopped figs, orange blossom water (if using), and the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Pomegranate Glazed Lamb
Elevate your lamb dishes with this sweet and savory glaze, perfect for special occasions or a flavorful weeknight dinner. The combination of pomegranate juice, spices, and honey creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that will impress anyone.
Ingredients:
– 1 leg of lamb (bone-in), about 2 lbs
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon.
3. Rub the glaze all over the lamb leg, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the lamb for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Emmer Wheat Porridge with Nuts
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious bowl of Emmer wheat porridge, flavored with nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Emmer wheat berries
– 4 cups water or plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
– Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Emmer wheat berries and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked Emmer wheat berries, then place them in a medium saucepan with 4 cups of water or plant-based milk.
3. Add salt and honey or maple syrup (if using), and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the porridge has thickened to your liking.
5. Stir in chopped nuts and a pinch of cinnamon (if using).
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Date and Almond Stuffed Quail
Elevate your game with this sweet and savory dish that combines the rich flavors of dates, almonds, and quail. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12 quails
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dates
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse quails and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dates, sliced almonds, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
4. Stuff each quail with the date-almond mixture, dividing it evenly among the birds.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place quails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ancient Egyptian Beer Bread
Experience a piece of history with this ancient Egyptian beer bread recipe, inspired by the traditional brews of the pharaohs. This dense and satisfying loaf is perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup beer (any type will do)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, beer, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
3. Add honey and stir until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
4. Pour into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Ancient Egyptian Beer Bread!
Carob Molasses Glazed Fish
Sweeten up your seafood with this unique Carob Molasses Glazed Fish recipe. This sweet and savory dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (6 oz each, any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup carob molasses
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together carob molasses, honey, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Place fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the fish, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chickpea and Onion Stew
This hearty stew is a comforting blend of chickpeas, onions, and aromatic spices that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chickpeas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Herb Cheese Dip
Roasted Garlic and Herb Cheese Dip Recipe
Perfect for your next gathering or snack time, this creamy dip combines the richness of cheese with the savory flavors of roasted garlic and herbs. Serve it warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the garlic is tender and mashed easily.
4. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, roasted garlic, cheddar cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of dip
Pomegranate and Honey Glazed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy glaze made with pomegranate juice, honey, and a hint of spice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Egyptian Spiced Lentil Salad
Experience the rich flavors of ancient Egypt with this vibrant and nutritious salad, featuring tender lentils infused with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Once lentils are cooked, drain and add them to the bowl with the spice mixture. Toss to combine.
4. Stir in parsley and cilantro.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese with Flatbread
This refreshing appetizer combines creamy goat cheese with fresh herbs and served with crispy flatbread, perfect for a light and flavorful snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 log of goat cheese (chèvre), crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of flatbread, cut into triangles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled goat cheese, parsley, and chives.
3. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange the flatbread triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon the herbed goat cheese mixture onto each flatbread triangle.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and the flatbread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Date and Sesame Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a healthy snack on-the-go. Made with nutritious ingredients like dates, sesame seeds, and oats, these energy balls are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the dates until smooth.
2. Add the oats, sesame seeds, and honey to the processor. Process until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are ready to eat as soon as they’re formed.
Ancient Egyptian Honey Nut Pastries
Inspired by the ancient Egyptians’ love for honey and nuts, these sweet pastries are a delicious nod to the pharaohs’ favorite snacks. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these tasty treats that would make even the gods smile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in honey, almonds, rose water (if using), and salt.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, triangles).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each pastry.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cumin and Coriander Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the warm, earthy spices of cumin and coriander. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these roasted vegetables are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2-3 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the vegetables, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss again to combine.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of ancient Egypt with these 18 authentic recipes that can be easily prepared in modern kitchens. From Ful Medames with Garlic and Lemon to Spiced Pomegranate Glazed Lamb, this collection of dishes brings together traditional ingredients and techniques to create a culinary journey through time. Whether you’re looking for hearty stews and soups or sweet treats like Egyptian Fig and Honey Cake, these recipes offer a unique glimpse into the cuisine of ancient Egypt.
