A popular meal prepared during Eid Al Adha, Fattah has a different preparation technique in Syria and Egypt.

Meat, rice and pieces of bread are the main ingredients of Fattah. Although it was said that it is a pharaonic meal, the recipe was changed over time to replace ingredients and make it relatable to different regions. Syria and Egypt have different recipes but the basic ingredients are the same.

Egyptian Fattah is made with Egyptian rice, toasted bread and meat. It is presented in layers with tomato sauce, garlic and vinegar sauce.  It looks complicated but is very easy to make. Small tips affect the taste such as: how to toast the bread, whether the meat is medium or well done, and is it boiled or grilled.

Syrian Fattah’s main ingredient is the bread and is made with chicken and yogurt sauce or chicken and eggplant. Also, chickpeas and nuts could be added. Unlike Egyptian Fattah, tomatoes, garlic and vinegar are not there.

This delicious dish, Fattah is loved by all Arabs, no matter the region, background or language.


Written by: Maha Abd Elkafi