Spice things up
Spice things up. Learn how to blend your spices and get phenomenal results with your cooking.
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make people smile
Make People Smile : If you want to make them smile discover the recipes that make their tastebuds dance & that excites their senses.
Are your Taste Buds Ready To Dance?
Are your taste buds ready to dance? They will with these wonderful Egyptian recipes, full of vibrant, exciting flavours, here at “Secrets of a Cairo Kitchen”.
Enjoy this exhilerating journey, discovering vibrant, exciting flavours.
- “Secrets of a Cairo Kitchen” has wonderful recipes full of vibrant, exciting flavours to share with you.
- You’ll be taken you on an exhilarating journey discovering the culinary delights Egypt has to offer.
- You’ll learn how to blend herbs and spices to make food that make your taste buds dance.
- You’ll discover recipes that make people smile.
- And you’ll learn a little about Egyptian culture along the way.
So, Are your taste buds ready to dance with joy?
Learning new and exciting ingredients and recipes can make every mealtime a culinary adventure which will awaken your taste buds and have them dancing.
The Importance of Herbs and Spices
You’re learn the art of blending herbs and spices, with “Secrets of a Cairo Kitchen”. You’ll also learn how important herbs and spices are when you want to create dishes that excel.
Your taste buds will be brought to life by multiple layers of flavour
Finding just the right proportions is key to perfecting a recipe. Herbs and spices add vibrancy and depth of flavour in multiple layers, bringing your food to life.
Amazing Aromas that awaken the senses
Let’s not forget the amazing aromas that herbs and spices release, setting the scene and awakening the senses even before one morsel is lifted from the plate.
So, Are Your Taste Buds Ready To Dance?
Welcome to your journey of discovery – enjoy every minute of it.
Here are a few recommendations
These dishes are sure to make your taste buds dance.
Give them a go & let me know which ones are the best.
Click on the links to get the recipes
Beef Kofta : The Middle Eastern version of a meat ball – just so much more tasty. With the addition of blended spices the flavours are incredible and a real joy.
Spiced Chicken Over Potato Layers : As this dish is cooked the air is filled with the most wonderful aromas from the spices in which the Chicken has been marinated. Whilst the chicken cooks, the meat juices are released basting the vegetables below. The resulting dish is a true celebration of flavour.
Beef Ghoulash, (best meat pie ever) : Micro-thin layers of crisp, buttery filo pastry encasing the most delicious meat filling – seasoned to perfection. The first time one of my son-in-laws had this, his response was, “Best meat pie ever.” And it truly is, it’s just so good.
Chicken Shawarma : Chicken that’s been marinated in a blend of the most wonderful aromatic spices and then either barbequed, grilled or fried. As you can imagine the smell produced in the cooking process are out of this world. It’s then brought together in a wrap, along with salad and drizzled with glorious tahini .
Crispy Cauliflower Wrap : Cauliflower florets in an amazing crispy spiced batter which has been seasoned with cumin, chilli flakes, garlic and more, taking it to its ultimate taste levels. This is then rolled into a wrap along with salad and drizzled with creamy tahini or a good slather of houmous – really tasty.
Beef & Cheese Lavash Wraps : This combination of meat and dairy is superb. Imagine the flavours of a gourmet cheese burger, wrapped in crispy wafer-thin bread. Imagine the crunch as you bite into it unlocking the glorious aromas and flavours of the succulent filling – yes it really is that good!
Shakshuka : Poached eggs Egyptian style. The base of the dish is an incredibly delicious spicy sauce made from peppers, tomatoes and onions. This is cooked through until it’s rich and tender. Eggs are then cradled in the surface of the sauce and cooked through in the juices. Served as a sharing platter and scooped up with warm flat breads.
Harissa Chicken : Harissa is an aromatic spicy paste made from ingredients that include roasted red peppers, garlic, ginger, aniseed, smoked paprika, chilli and more. The chicken is marinated in this wonderful rich and spicy paste before cooking, giving it unbelievable flavours to start off with. But then the flavours are elevated to a completely new level by smoking. The flavours are just off the chart they’re so good.
If the idea of smoking something that sounds really difficult, believe me when I tell you that it’s not; not at all.
And if you think you’ll need fancy expensive equipment let me tell you NO. Everything you need you’ve probably already got.
Have a go – YOU’LL BE AMAZED !
Lamb Fettah : This is one of the signature dishes of Egypt. A large tray is covered in pieces of crispy bread. This is then thoroughly soaked in a wonderfully rich gravy and covered with rice. Beautifully tender chunks of meat are then spread over the rice and more of the gravy is ladled over the rice. The finishing touch is then a rich tomato sauce, laced with cumin and garlic which is then drizzled over the meat as its crowning glory.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad : Butternut squash seasoned with warm aromatic spices and roasted until tender is the main star of the show with this dish. The addition of brown lentils and chickpeas to the salad make this a substantial dish; every mouthful packed with flavour.
Nut Ghoulash / Baklava : Crisp, micro-thin, buttery layers of filo pastry enveloping toasted nuts bathed in a seductively sweet syrup make this an incredibly popular sweet treat, loved by just about everyone.
I hope you enjoy these recipes. Let me know what you think.
What food excites you? Do you prefer sweet or savoury?
Harissa Chicken
Harissa Chicken: Spiced to perfection. The multiple layers of flavours of Harissa Chicken will simply blow you away. Get the recipe here.
Ghorayebah
These traditional Middle Eastern shortbread biscuits have a delicate, crumbly texture that dissolves in your mouth. Try this amazing recipe with just 3 ingredients.
Basbousa
Basbousa: A Classic Middle Eastern Delight
Basbousa is a traditional Middle Eastern semolina cake known for its rich, moist texture and delicate sweetness.
Infused with coconut and bathed in a fragrant sugar syrup, this dessert is a staple at family gatherings, celebrations, and tea-time indulgences.
Its simplicity and irresistible flavour make it a beloved treat across many cultures. Whether enjoyed with mint tea, Arabic coffee, or a dollop of whipped cream, basbousa is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups semolina
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 3/4 cup caster sugar
- 1/2 cup plain flour
- 1 tspn baking powder
- 1 cup thick yoghurt (200g)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (as needed for consistency)
- 25 blanched almond halves
For the Syrup:
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 12″ x 10″ baking tray.
- Make the Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 15 minutes stirring frequently.
- Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, mix semolina, coconut, sugar, flour and baking powder.
- Add yoghurt, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
- If the mixture is too thick, add up to 1/4 cup milk gradually, a spoon at a time, until a thick but pourable consistency is reached.
- Shape and Bake:
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking tray and smooth the surface.
- Using a sharp knife, score the batter into diamond or square shapes.
- Place half an almond in the center of each piece.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Add the Syrup:
- While the cake is still hot, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the entire surface.
- Let the cake absorb the syrup and cool completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy basbousa with mint tea or Arabic coffee, or serve as a dessert with whipped cream.
Tips:
- Allow the cake to rest for a few hours after adding the syrup for the best texture.
Baklava Boukage
Baklava Boukage is a delightful pastry; a variation of classic baklava—simpler to prepare yet equally delicious. Try this easy recipe and be delighted with the result.
Rice Pudding
This is Rice Pudding like you’ve never tasted before: A delicate and refreshing twist on a classic dessert, this Chilled Rose-Scented Rice Pudding is infused with the subtle floral notes of rose water and boasts a silky, creamy texture.
Ramadan Sohoor
Ramadan Sohoor : The nutritious meal that sustains those fasting through Ramadan
Ramadan Sohoor is one of the most important meals for those fasting during Ramadan.
Eaten just before sunrise, it provides essential nourishment and energy to sustain those Fasting throughout the day.
This pre-dawn meal helps prepare the body and mind for the fast ahead, ensuring better endurance and well-being.”
Ramadan
Ramadan is one of the most significant and sacred months in the Islamic calendar. It is a time of fasting- fulfilling one of the five pillars of Islam – while fostering spirituality, self-discipline, gratitude, and empathy.
The Essence of Fasting
Fasting during Ramadan takes place from sunrise to sunset. During these hours, Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations. Beyond physical restraint, fasting encourages mindfulness, patience, and self-reflection.
Ramadan is a Month of Celebration and Giving
Ramadan is a time of joy and unity. Streets are adorned with colorful festoon lights, creating a festive atmosphere that brings families and communities together.
Preparing for the Fast: The Importance of Ramadan Sohoor
Before the fasting day begins, families wake early for Sohoor, a nutritious pre-dawn meal designed to sustain them throughout the day. A well-balanced Sohoor includes high-protein and healthy fat-rich foods for lasting energy, while avoiding excessive salt to prevent thirst and minimizing sugar to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Traditional Egyptian Ramadan Sohoor
In Egypt, Sohoor resembles a mezze-style breakfast, consisting of a variety of delicious and nourishing dishes. A typical Egyptian Sohoor includes:
- Ful Medames (Stewed Fava Beans)
- Taameya (Falafel)
- Boiled Eggs or Shakshuka
- Cheese
- Flatbreads
- Salata Baladi (Herb Salad)
- Hummus
- Pickles
- Olives
- Yoghurt
- Fresh Fruit
- Dates
- Nuts
Try some of our Featured Recipes
To help you prepare a traditional Egyptian Sohoor, our featured recipes include:
Falafel the most popular street food in Egypt
Tasty pickles
All eaten with delicious, warm flatbreads.
Whether you’re observing Ramadan or simply exploring Middle Eastern cuisine, these dishes offer a taste of tradition and nourishment. May this Holy month bring peace, reflection, and togetherness to all who celebrate.
Ramadan Sweet Treats
Ramadan Sweet Treats are very much part of the Ramadan celebrations. In Egypt, the arrival of Ramadan brings not only a spiritual atmosphere but also the irresistible aroma of sweet treats wafting through homes and bustling streets. In the evenings, street vendors line the roads …
Home-made Yoghurt
Making homemade yogurt is easier than you might think and requires just a few ingredients. Not only is it a cost-effective alternative to store-bought varieties, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, flavours, and consistency to suit your taste.
Ramadan Iftar Drinks
Ramadan Iftar drinks are so special. After a long day of fasting, a refreshing cold drink feels like a true blessing. While water is essential for quenching thirst, offering something a little extra adds a special touch.
As previously mentioned, Ramadan is an incredibly significant celebration in Egypt and the Islamic world.
Fasting begins before daybreak and continues until sunset, during which no food or drink is consumed. So, the drink served at Iftar is trully cherished.
Ramadan Iftar Drinks are Cherished
Here are some popular drinks often enjoyed as Ramadan Iftar drinks:
- Date Milkshake – A rich and naturally sweet treat made by blending soft dates with milk, sometimes with a dash of cinnamon or vanilla for added flavor. It’s packed with natural sugars, making it an excellent source of energy after fasting.
- Date Juice – A simple yet nourishing energy boost prepared by soaking dates in water and blending them into a smooth, naturally sweet drink. Some versions include a hint of cardamom or nutmeg for an aromatic twist.
- Lemon Yoghurt Drink – A refreshing and tangy delight, this drink combines yoghurt, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of honey or sugar for balance. It aids digestion and provides a cooling effect, making it perfect for breaking the fast.
- Apricot Drink (Amardeen) – A traditional, velvety fruit drink made from dried apricot sheets dissolved in water, then blended into a smooth, slightly thick beverage. It is often sweetened with sugar and infused with orange blossom water for a fragrant touch. Amardeen is a Ramadan staple, known for its refreshing and energizing properties.
- Dried Fruit Compote (Khoshaf) – A naturally sweet and nutritious option made by soaking dried fruits such as figs, apricots, prunes, and raisins in water, sometimes with nuts for added texture. The fruits soften and release their flavors, creating a mildly sweet and nourishing drink.
- Mango Smoothie – A tropical and revitalizing favourite made with ripe mangoes, blended with milk or yoghurt for a creamy consistency. Some variations include a hint of cardamom or a drizzle of honey to enhance the flavour.
- Sobia – A creamy coconut-based drink, loved for its unique flavor and texture. Made by blending coconut milk with rice flour, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, this drink is thick, slightly sweet, and incredibly satisfying. Some variations include a hint of cinnamon for extra warmth and depth.
These beverages not only help rehydrate after fasting but also bring comfort and joy to iftar, making them cherished staples of Ramadan celebrations.
Iftar Meals for Ramadan
Iftar meals for Ramadan need to be both easy to prepare in advance and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Check out these fantastic recipes.
Sobia
Sobia – A creamy coconut-based drink, loved for its unique flavor and texture. Made by blending coconut milk with rice flour, sugar, and a touch of vanilla.