There are local foods in Sharm El-Sheikh, just as there are in any other part of Egypt. For those traveling to this prominent Red Sea tourist destination, experiencing the delightful Egyptian food is a must. These dishes are available in the numerous hotels, resorts, and restaurants scattered across the area. Choosing to try local food in Sharm El-Sheikh means enjoying Egyptian cuisine that competes with many Arab and Maghrebi restaurants.
Join us in this article to discover the most popular traditional meals you can savor in Sharm El-Sheikh.
The Tourism Importance of Sharm El-Sheikh
Two main factors have granted Sharm El-Sheikh its significance as a tourist hub in Egypt and the region.
The first factor is its strategic location on the Red Sea, near the Gulf of Aqaba Strait. The beaches in this area are stunning, with sandy shores and coral reef-filled waters, making it an ideal spot for diving, swimming, and sea excursions. Its location also provides a moderate climate and a unique environment for safaris and exploring enchanting nature reserves.
The second factor is the attention the Egyptian authorities have given to this location. They have provided all the necessary infrastructure, transportation networks, hotels, resorts, and essential services. Additionally, ensuring security and stability for tourists has made millions of visitors flock to this exceptional destination. For these reasons, Sharm El-Sheikh is considered an important global tourist destination.
The Local Food Experience in Sharm El-Sheikh
No travel experience is complete without indulging in the local cuisine of the place you visit. Local dishes carry elements of the culture, traditions, and culinary practices of the area. They reflect the use of unique ingredients and methods of preparation. Tasting local food often leaves a lasting impression, as your palate remembers the flavors and feelings you experienced long after you leave.
Sharm El-Sheikh is located on the Sinai Peninsula, which is part of Egypt’s cultural environment, embedding it with many traditional Egyptian practices while also maintaining its unique characteristics.
The people of Sinai rely on meals rich in spices, and those in coastal areas consume seafood more frequently. Due to the prevalence of Bedouin culture, grilled meats and rice dishes are especially widespread.
Top 10 Local Foods to Try in Sharm El-Sheikh
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Grilled Fresh Fish
Since Sharm El-Sheikh is a coastal area overlooking the Red Sea, seafood is one of the most prominent local dishes served in restaurants and hotels. Many eateries specialize in seafood and even offer delivery services throughout the area.
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Molokhia
Molokhia is a popular Egyptian dish enjoyed across the country, including in Sinai, where it’s cultivated and prepared in a unique way. It’s made from finely chopped green molokhia leaves, chicken, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coriander, and a blend of spices.
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Mandi
Mandi is a favorite dish among the locals in Sinai. This hearty and flavorful meal involves stuffing a goat with rice mixed with a special marinade of garlic, onions, green peppers, lemon, and a blend of spices. The cooking process involves digging a pit in the ground, lighting a fire at the bottom, and cooking the stuffed goat slowly under hot ash.
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Maklouba
Maklouba is a renowned Egyptian dish popular in various parts of Sinai, including Sharm El-Sheikh. It is a layered dish made of rice, chicken, potatoes, eggplant, and cauliflower, seasoned with a special mix of spices. After cooking, the pot is flipped onto a large plate, creating a cake-like presentation.
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Al-Lasima
Al-Lasima is a quick and delicious dish combining fresh bread and underripe watermelon (ajr), roasted eggplant, and olive oil. Traditionally prepared by baking dough under hot ash, it’s served with a drizzle of pure Sinai olive oil.
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Sinai Mansaf
Sinai Mansaf is a traditional dish and one of the most famous meals in the region. It typically includes slow-cooked lamb (or camel) in a rich yogurt-based broth (jameed), giving it a distinct flavor.
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Kamounia
Kamounia is a classic dish made using lamb offal, such as liver, intestines, and spleen. These parts are cleaned thoroughly, marinated in onions and vinegar, then cooked with tomatoes, onions, cumin, and other spices.
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Abu Mardam
Abu Mardam is a traditional dish prepared during special occasions. It involves roasting a whole lamb inside a barrel using olive wood as fuel, giving the meat a unique, smoky flavor.
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Asida
Asida is a favorite dish among the desert and Bedouin communities in Sinai.Flour, butter, milk, and ground cardamom are the ingredients that make it a meal.Often, people add dates to enhance its sweetness, transforming it into a warm and delicious meal.
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Dachisha
Dachisha is a unique Bedouin dish made from coarsely crushed wheat and often cooked with goat meat. It is slow-cooked and served with a rich soup, clarified butter, and traditional bread.
Tips for Enjoying Food in Sharm El-Sheikh
- Visit local markets to explore Egyptian ingredients like seafood and fresh produce.
- Talk to locals to learn about the most famous dishes and the best dining spots.
- Don’t hesitate to try smaller restaurants offering authentic local food for a unique culinary experience.
Conclusion
Egyptian food is renowned for its delicious and diverse dishes. When it comes to food in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egyptian culinary traditions are strongly present, complemented by unique local influences shaped by the environment, climate, and proximity to the sea.
As a coastal and desert area, Sharm El-Sheikh’s culinary practices combine seafood traditions with Bedouin-inspired meat preparations such as Mandi and Mansaf. Visiting Sharm El-Sheikh provides an excellent opportunity to taste some of the most delicious dishes, with numerous restaurants offering meals prepared with skill and artistry.