14 Top Common Egyptian Beverages

In Egypt, tea, known locally as “shai,” is an essential drink in daily life and culture. Egyptian tea is typically served in 2 main styles: “koshary” and “sa’idi.”

Koshary tea, common in northern Egypt, is light, often brewed with sugar, and sometimes flavored with fresh mint or lemon. Sa’idi tea, prevalent in southern Egypt, is strong and dark, brewed with a significant amount of black tea leaves and sugar.

Black tea is the national drink of Egypt, enjoyed by people of all social classes. Locals typically brew their tea using loose leaves rather than tea bags. You’ll find that the tea here is usually served in small glasses rather than cups.

FYI, the Ottoman Empire, which ruled over Egypt for centuries, heavily influenced Egyptian culture, including its tea culture. That’s why the methods of brewing and serving tea in Egypt show similarities to tea practices in Turkish drinks.

With a rich history dating back centuries, coffee, called “ahwa,” in Egypt, is a strong, thick drink made with finely ground beans. Sugar is a common addition, and sometimes cardamom or other spices are added.

Egyptian coffee is typically prepared in a small pot called a “kanaka” or “cezve.” It’s brewed over low heat until it forms a frothy layer on top, then poured into small, handleless cups. This brewing method is similar to how Ellinikos, a well-loved coffee drink in Greece, is prepared.

Coffee in this country is served in special coffee houses called “ahwas.” These cafes are lively hubs where people gather to chat, play games, and savor the aromatic brew while engaging in conversations. Coffee is also a very common drink in Ethiopia.

Karkade, known internationally as hibiscus tea, is an Egyptian beloved beverage made from dried hibiscus petals.

Making karkade involves steeping the petals in boiling water and then adding sugar to taste. It’s typically served either hot or cold with a tart, cranberry-like flavor.

Karkade also provides health benefits. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, it is believed to help lower blood pressure and support overall well-being.

Sahlab is a creamy winter drink made from a base of hot milk and sahlab powder (orchid tubers) in Egypt. The drink is normally flavored with orange blossom water or rose water and garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nuts, or shredded coconut.

However, preparing sahlab requires carefully heating the milk and orchid powder mixture to achieve the perfect consistency.

The result is a creamy, pudding-like drink, which is best enjoyed hot, providing a soothing and comforting experience.

Sugarcane juice, known locally as “aseer asab,” is a popular drink in Egypt, especially during the hot summer. Extracted from fresh sugarcane stalks using specialized pressing machines, this sweet beverage is often served chilled in tall glasses.

You can buy sugarcane juice from street vendors and juice shops across Egypt. It’s a perfect hydrating treat for people of all ages.

Egyptians love a sweet, milky drink called Sobia, which is made from coconut, rice, and milk. The rice locals use is cooked rice, blended with other ingredients to give sobia a slightly starchy texture and a subtle sweetness.

Flavored with vanilla to enhance the taste and served chilled, sobia is especially popular during Ramadan.

Tamarind juice, known locally in Egypt as tamr hindi, is a refreshing drink with a perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors. It’s made from tamarind pod pulp and best enjoyed chilled, offering a delightful treat to beat the summer heat.

Historically, street vendors would announce their arrival with the rhythmic clanging of copper discs, carrying large pots of juice on their backs.

Although this practice is less common today, these vendors still evoke a sense of nostalgia for many Egyptians, bringing back fond memories of summer traditions.

Lemonade, known in Egypt as “limoonada,” is a refreshing drink crafted from freshly squeezed lemons, water, sugar, and sometimes mint.

Typically enjoyed cold, lemonade’s simplicity and bright, zesty flavor make it a favorite treat to cool down and stay hydrated, particularly in the summer.

You can find this beverage at local street vendors and cafes. Plus, many households prepare fresh lemonade for guests, showing their hospitality and welcome.

Mowz bil-laban, or banana milk, is a popular drink in Egypt, loved for its creamy texture and sweet taste. This simple yet nutritious beverage is made by blending ripe bananas with milk and a touch of sugar or honey.

Often served chilled, it provides a satisfying treat, especially during hot weather. Mowz bil-Laban is not only a favorite among children but also enjoyed by adults seeking a quick and healthy snack.

It’s also a delicious way to use overripe bananas, making it a budget-friendly drink in many households.

Hummus al sham, aka halabessa, is a savory drink made from chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices. It’s a winter favorite in Egypt.

To make hummus al sham, locals simmer all ingredients, then serve it piping hot with a spoon to consume it. Halabessa is often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of spices to add more flavor.

Traditionally served during religious fasts, hummus al sham is a comforting drink to break the day’s abstinence.

As the name suggests, dates with milk is a traditional drink in Egypt made by soaking dates in milk. It’s commonly consumed during Ramadan to break their fast.

Rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars, dates provide a quick energy boost, while milk adds protein and calcium, making it a nourishing drink,

Carob juice, known as “kharoub”, is a beloved drink during summer months and Ramadan in Egypt. Made from soaked and boiled pods of the carob tree, the drink is often sweetened with a mildly sweet taste.

FYI, carob juice is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Thus, people believe it can aid digestion and help cool the body. Vendors often sell it in local markets, where its deep, brown color and distinctive taste attract many.

Fenugreek tea, aka helba tea, is a brew made from fenugreek seeds steeped in hot water. The tea has a slightly bitter flavor, so Egyptians traditionally add honey for a touch of sweetness.

Fenugreek tea is known for its potential health benefits, including soothing a sore throat and aiding digestion. Enjoyed hot or cold, it’s a simple yet functional drink.

Cocktail juice in Egypt is a refreshing mixture of various seasonal fruit juices. The common fruits used in cocktail juice are mango, orange, banana, and guava. Each fruit is freshly squeezed or blended, ensuring the drink has natural flavors and nutrients.

The flavors are typically intense and sweet, perfect for hot days. You can buy it from street vendors or in grocery stores. Overall, it’s a budget-friendly drink that allows you to enjoy the sweetness and vitamins.