Hurghada Food and Drink Holidays from the UK

Popular cooking classes in Hurghada teach traditional dishes like koshari (Egypt's national dish), molokhia (jute leaf soup), ful medames (fava bean stew), and various mezze including baba ganoush and tahini-based salads. Many classes also cover traditional bread making and Egyptian desserts like basbousa. iTravel Holidays can arrange classes focusing on your preferred cuisine types.

Yes, Hurghada offers excellent street food experiences, particularly in the El Dahar area where you'll find authentic ful carts, fresh ta'ameya (Egyptian falafel), and traditional bakeries. The marina area also features fresh seafood vendors and traditional Egyptian snacks. Our local guides know the safest and most authentic street food spots for international visitors.

El Dahar souk is the main traditional market featuring spice vendors, dried fruit sellers, and local produce stalls where you can buy authentic Egyptian ingredients. The fish market near the old harbour showcases daily Red Sea catches, while smaller neighbourhood markets offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional Egyptian pantry items perfect for cooking enthusiasts.

Egyptian cuisine is excellent for vegetarians, featuring many plant-based staples like ful medames, koshari, stuffed vine leaves, and various mezze dishes. Most cooking classes can accommodate vegetarian preferences, and local restaurants typically offer extensive vegetarian options. iTravel Holidays can ensure your food experiences cater specifically to vegetarian requirements.

Traditional Egyptian beverages include strong black tea (shai), Turkish coffee, fresh sugar cane juice, hibiscus tea (karkade), and tamarind juice. Many hotels and restaurants also serve excellent fresh fruit juices including mango, guava, and pomegranate. Mint tea and traditional Egyptian lemonades are refreshing options in the Red Sea heat.

Absolutely! El Dahar souk and local markets sell high-quality Egyptian spices including dukkah blends, baharat spice mix, sumac, and za'atar at excellent prices. Most vendors can vacuum-pack spices for travel, and these make perfect culinary souvenirs. Always check UK customs regulations for importing spices before purchasing large quantities.

Yes, most cooking classes in Hurghada are designed for all skill levels, with local chefs providing step-by-step instruction in English. Classes typically start with market tours to select ingredients, followed by hands-on cooking and a shared meal of your creations. iTravel Holidays can recommend classes that match your experience level and interests.

Resort buffets often feature international dishes alongside simplified Egyptian options, while local restaurants and cooking classes showcase authentic regional specialities with traditional preparation methods and locally-sourced ingredients. The best food holidays combine resort convenience with genuine local dining experiences to give you the full spectrum of Egyptian flavours and cooking techniques.