The allure of ancient Egyptian cuisine lies not only in its historical significance, but also in its bold flavors and innovative uses of ingredients. For centuries, Egyptians have been renowned for their love of good food and drink, and their culinary traditions continue to captivate people around the world today. In this article, we will delve into the world of authentic ancient Egyptian recipes that can be easily adapted to modern kitchens.
From hearty stews and soups to sweet pastries and desserts, our selection of 18 recipes takes you on a gastronomic journey through time. You’ll discover how to prepare dishes like Ful Medames with Garlic and Cumin, Barley Bread with Honey and Dates, and Lentil Soup with Coriander and Onion – all made using traditional methods and ingredients. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a themed dinner party or simply want to spice up your meal routine, these ancient Egyptian recipes are sure to delight.
Ful Medames with Garlic and Cumin
This hearty dish is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, made with fava beans, garlic, cumin, and lemon juice. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fava beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the fava beans, garlic, cumin, and salt.
2. Add enough water to cover the mixture and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the fava beans are tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and olive oil.
5. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Barley Bread with Honey and Dates
Sweet Barley Bread with Honey and Dates Recipe
This sweet bread recipe combines the nutty flavor of barley with the natural sweetness of honey and dates, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole barley flakes
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine barley flakes, flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by adding it to the warm water. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped dates.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil Soup with Coriander and Onion
This hearty lentil soup is flavored with the warm, aromatic spices of coriander and onion, making it a perfect comfort food for any season. With its rich, comforting broth and tender lentils, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the coriander, bay leaf, lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Duck with Pomegranate Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory roasted duck recipe, featuring a tangy pomegranate glaze. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole duck
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the duck and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season the duck with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
4. Roast the duck for 30 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.
6. Brush the glaze all over the duck during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
7. Let the duck rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (30 minutes roasting time + 45 minutes resting time)
Spiced Fava Bean Stew
Warm up with this hearty, aromatic stew made with fava beans, a staple of Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fava beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 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 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add soaked fava beans, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until fava beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fig and Almond Stuffed Pastries
Sweet Fig and Almond Stuffed Pastries Recipe
Discover the perfect fusion of sweet and savory flavors with these delightful pastries filled with caramelized figs, crunchy almonds, and a hint of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh or dried figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together chopped figs, sliced almonds, granulated sugar, and orange zest.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon the fig-almond mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press the edges to seal.
6. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place pastries on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each pastry.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese with Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines creamy goat cheese with fresh herbs and crispy flatbread.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette or flatbread
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese, parsley, chives, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Arrange flatbread on a baking sheet and top with the herbed goat cheese mixture.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Date and Sesame Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are a perfect blend of natural sweetness from dates and nutty flavor from sesame seeds. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re a great option for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the dates until smooth.
2. Add the oats, sesame seeds, honey, and vanilla extract to the processor. Process until well combined and a sticky dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
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 best served fresh or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Beer-Braised Lamb with Leeks
This hearty dish combines tender lamb with sweet caramelized leeks and the richness of beer, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 kg boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 500 ml dark beer (such as stout or porter)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb pieces, about 5 minutes per side, then remove from pot.
3. Add more oil if necessary, then sauté the leeks until softened and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the beer to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Return the lamb to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Carob Molasses Glazed Chicken
This recipe combines the rich flavors of carob molasses with a hint of sweetness, creating a unique glaze that elevates grilled chicken to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup carob molasses
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together carob molasses, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
3. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the carob molasses glaze evenly over the chicken.
6. Let chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ancient Egyptian Red Lentil Dip
Ancient Egyptian Red Lentil Dip Recipe
Step back in time with this flavorful and nutritious dip inspired by the ancient Egyptians! This recipe combines the rich flavors of red lentils, garlic, and cumin to create a deliciously exotic snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the lentils again, then transfer them to a blender with garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding lemon juice and parsley as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Soaking time: 8 hours or overnight
– Blending time: 2-3 minutes
Serve:
Enjoy with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers for a flavorful and healthy snack!
Pomegranate and Honey Glazed Fish
This sweet and savory glazed fish recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive dinner. The combination of pomegranate juice, honey, and spices creates a sticky and flavorful glaze that complements the delicate flavor of the fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 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, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the fish fillets in a shallow baking dish. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Emmer Wheat Porridge with Figs
Emmer wheat porridge is a comforting and nutritious breakfast option that’s perfect for cold mornings. This recipe adds natural sweetness from caramelized figs, making it an ideal treat to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup emmer wheat berries
– 4 cups water or non-dairy milk
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh or dried figs
– Pinch of ground 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 non-dairy milk.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the porridge has thickened slightly.
4. Add honey or maple syrup, salt, and chopped figs to the porridge. Stir well.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a pinch of ground cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic and Herb Infused Olive Oil
Transform your favorite dishes with this flavorful oil, perfect for finishing soups, salads, pasta, or as a marinade. This infused olive oil is a simple yet impressive addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
– Salt, optional
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped herbs.
2. Heat over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
5. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None
Melon and Mint Salad with Yogurt
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer salad featuring sweet melon, cooling mint, and creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed melon (such as cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon), cubed
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the melon cubes and chopped mint.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the melon mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None needed! This salad is best served fresh and cold.
Spiced Chickpea and Onion Stew
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a nutritious lunch option. This recipe combines the humble chickpea with sweet onions and aromatic spices to create a deliciously balanced dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pistachio and Date Sweet Rolls
These sweet rolls combine the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty flavor of pistachios, creating a unique and irresistible treat. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Spread dates and pistachios evenly over the dough.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one of the long sides. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Rosewater and Honey Custard
This decadent custard combines the delicate flavors of rosewater and honey to create a unique dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and rosewater. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the honey until well combined.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (6-ounce) ramekins or cups. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to travel back in time with these 18 authentic ancient Egyptian recipes, adapted for modern kitchens. From hearty stews and soups to sweet pastries and desserts, this collection of dishes will transport you to the land of the pharaohs. Try making Ful Medames with Garlic and Cumin, a classic bean dish, or indulge in Barley Bread with Honey and Dates, a sweet and savory treat. With ingredients like pomegranate, coriander, and emmer wheat, these recipes are not only delicious but also steeped in history. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a culinary adventure, this article has something for everyone.
