A Complete Guide to Vegan Food in Egypt | Red Sea 

A Complete Guide to Vegan Food in Egypt | Red Sea 

Egypt’s Red Sea is famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. It’s no wonder that it has long been a favourite destination for travellers looking for sun-soaked beaches and underwater adventures. Beyond its natural allure, the area also provides cultural experiences, particularly in its culinary landscape. However, for vegan travellers, the predominantly animal-centric cuisine for vegan lovers might seem daunting. All is not lost, as there are also deep-rooted traditions of plant-based dishes and a growing awareness of veganism. 

Understanding Egyptian cuisine is essential for vegan travellers. Traditional dishes often centre around legumes, grains, and vegetables, reflecting centuries-old agricultural practices and dietary habits. You can enjoy authentic flavours by exploring these plant-based foods as a vegan.

This comprehensive guide will discuss the vegan-friendly part of Egypt’s Red Sea region, highlight traditional dishes, notable eateries, and practical tips for a fulfilling culinary journey.

Egyptian Cuisine and Vegan-Friendly Staples

Due to its agrarian roots and Mediterranean proximity, Egyptian cuisine blends flavours and textures. Lentils and fava beans are central to many dishes and are primary protein sources. Grains like rice and bulgur wheat are dietary mainstays, and people use many vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and eggplants. Aromatic herbs and spices like cumin, coriander, and parsley are also part of dishes.

Bread, particularly ‘aish baladi’ (Egyptian flatbread), is a part of every meal. It is traditionally made without animal products, making it suitable for vegans. So, these plant-based ingredients in many traditional recipes provide plentiful options for vegan-friendly dining.

Best Vegan-Friendly Dishes to Try in the Red Sea Region

The Red Sea region has many traditional dishes that are either vegan or that can be quickly adapted to be vegan.

• Koshari: Koshari is Egypt’s national dish. It is a hearty amalgamation of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. Its rich, savoury profile makes it a favourite among locals and tourists.
• Ful Medames: A breakfast staple, Ful Medames consists of slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It’s typically served with fresh vegetables and bread, offering a nutritious start to the day.
• Ta’ameya (Egyptian Falafel): Distinct from its Levantine counterpart, Egyptian falafel is made from ground fava beans, resulting in a lighter texture. Deep-fried to perfection, it’s often enjoyed with tahini sauce and fresh greens.
• Baba Ghanoush: This smoky eggplant dip, blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, serves as a flavorful appetiser or side dish.
• Molokhia: A green, leafy soup made from jute leaves, molokhia is traditionally cooked in a vegetable broth with garlic and coriander. When prepared without meat, it offers a unique taste and is typically served over rice or with bread.

Popular Vegan-Friendly Restaurants and Cafés

While dedicated Vegan restaurants in Egypt are still emerging in the Red Sea region, several eateries readily provide vegan food and are conveniently located near diving areas or the jump-off point for a Red Sea liveaboard such as Hurghada.

• The Vegan Lab (Dahab): As one of the few fully vegan restaurants in the area, The Vegan Lab offers a diverse menu featuring salads, smoothies, and main courses crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Its commitment to plant-based dining has made it a favourite among locals and visitors.
• Malu’s Deli (Hurghada): This café offers a selection of vegan items, including spring rolls, salads, smoothies, and juices, providing light and healthy options for diners. 
• Granada Restaurant and Pub (Hurghada): It is famous for its exotic Mediterranean cuisine and offers a laid-back atmosphere overlooking the sea. Vegans can find salads, pasta, and pizza options, with modifications available upon request.
  
• Fairuz (Sharm El Sheikh): Although this restaurant serves meat dishes, it also offers vegan-labelled options, accommodating plant-based diners seeking traditional flavours.

Vegan Alternatives and Ingredient Substitutions

There are many traditional Egyptian dishes that you can turn into a vegan diet with minor modifications.

• Dairy Substitutes: Many Egyptian dishes incorporate yoghurt or cheese. Requesting tahini or hummus as alternatives can maintain the dish’s integrity while adhering to vegan principles.
• Butter and Ghee: Butter (samna) is commonly used in cooking. Asking for olive or vegetable oil as a substitute ensures the meal remains plant-based.
• Broth Bases: Soups and stews may use meat-based broths. Inquiring about the base and requesting vegetable broth will allow you to enjoy awesome vegan slow-cooked delights.

Tips for Vegan Travellers in Egypt’s Red Sea Region

The best way to find vegetarian food in Egypt is to engage with locals for vegan options that may not be on the menu or on the internet. Local people are generally friendly and more than willing to help you out. They will happily offer suggestions or adapt dishes upon request. 

Similarly, asking for recommendations also opens opportunities to explore lesser-known regional dishes that may be inherently plant-based. Otherwise, you can also follow some practical tips.

• Learn Key Phrases: Familiarising yourself with Arabic phrases like “Ana nabati” (I am vegan) or “Bidoon lahm wa bidoon alban” (Without meat and dairy) can effectively communicate dietary needs.
• Research Ahead: Utilising resources like Happy Cow or local vegan blogs can identify vegan-friendly establishments in advance.
• Pack Essentials: While the Red Sea region offers vegan options, carrying a few essentials like protein bars or nuts is wise, especially if planning day trips or visiting remote areas where options may be limited. Snacks also ensure you won’t be caught off guard when local offerings don’t align with your preferences.
• Embrace the Markets: Local markets are treasure troves of fresh fruits, vegetables, and legumes, allowing vegans to enjoy the raw ingredients of Egyptian cuisine. You’ll find locally grown produce that varies by season, adding a fresh touch to your meals.

Cultural Insights and Dining Etiquette

Understanding local dining etiquette enhances your travel experience. In Egypt, sharing meals is a sign of respect, and most dishes are served family-style, with multiple platters to sample from. When dining with locals, you will notice that they take pride in their culinary traditions. 

In Egypt, meals often start with a variety of mezze (appetisers) served with bread, creating an ideal opportunity for vegans to enjoy an assortment of plant-based dips like hummus, baba ghanoush, and salads.

Vegan Food in Egypt Beyond the Red Sea

While the Red Sea region is known for its beauty, other Egyptian cities like Cairo and Alexandria also boast a variety of vegan options. Cairo, in particular, has a growing vegan scene, with several restaurants and cafés that cater specifically to plant-based diets.

With its Mediterranean influence, Alexandria offers an array of vegetable-based dishes that are easy to enjoy as a vegan. Exploring these cities alongside the Red Sea region provides a holistic view of Egyptian vegan cuisine.

Exploring these areas before or after your Red Sea liveaboard is highly recommended. It would be a shame to miss it, and it lets you decompress. 🙂

Sustainable Tourism in Egypt

As veganism intersects with sustainable tourism, being mindful of your food choices while travelling in Egypt supports local agriculture and reduces environmental impact. Traditional dishes are built around sustainable ingredients, such as fava beans, lentils, and seasonal vegetables. 

By choosing these options, you contribute to the local economy while minimising the carbon footprint of meat production and food imports. Some restaurants in the Red Sea region also adopt more eco-friendly practices, from sourcing locally grown produce to minimising waste, reflecting a shift towards sustainability in Egyptian tourism.

To Wrap it Up

Vegan travel in Egypt’s Red Sea region is all about tradition and hospitality. From savouring dishes like kosher and ful medames to vegan gems in local restaurants, plenty of plant-based options allow you to experience Egyptian culture. 

Embracing veganism in a country with deep culinary roots broadens your taste horizons and allows for a deeper cultural connection. By making mindful choices, you support the shift towards sustainable tourism, making Egypt’s Red Sea region an exciting destination for vegan travellers seeking adventure and authenticity.

If you are heading to the Red Sea area for a scuba resort holiday or a dive liveaboard, your plant-based diver requirements can be happily explored. Let us take care of your dive liveaboard or resort menu, and enjoy what else is on offer before or after your dive trip. If you have any questions about our guide to vegan food in Egypt, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Written By:

Brett Robertson

(Diver and Vegan)

PADI Platinum Course Director | Dive educator | Dive resort and liveaboard owner | Vegan advocate for conservation projects and plant-based lifestyles, and a burgeoning serial runner.

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