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Egyptian Grilled Pigeon — traditional dish from Cairo, Egypt
Main course Meat

Food Flavour DNA

Nutritional Values

🔥450kcal
💪45gProtein
🌾20gCarbs
🥑20gFat
🌿3gFibre
⚖️300 gServing

* Per serving · 300 g. May vary.

Egyptian Grilled Pigeon

How to order / say it
Say it حمام محشي — [hah-MAAM MAH-shee]
Order I'd like the hamaam mahshi, please.
Locally من فضلك، أريد الحمام المحشي.
Say locally

Stuffed pigeon grilled and typically served with rice or freekeh.

Why try it?

Hamaam mahshi is a delicacy often served at celebratory events in Egypt. It represents the elegant side of Egyptian cuisine, showcasing a rich history and the tradition of using every part of the bird sustainably.

How it tastes

The pigeon has a tender, flavorful meat highlighted by the stuffing, which is fragrant and savory, often with herbs and spices lending an aromatic depth. Characteristically juicy, it is grilled to perfection with a crispy skin.

Origin & History — first documented: 1900

This dish dates back to ancient times when pigeons were farmed in Egypt. Traditionally prepared for special occasions and feasts, it has continued to be a prestigious dish often associated with Egyptian hospitality.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • 🥩 2 whole pigeon
  • 🌾 100 g rice
  • 🌿 30 g herbs
  • 🥛 30 g ghee
  • 🧂 1 tbsp spices
  • 🧄 1 medium onion

Method

  1. 1 Prepare the stuffing by mixing rice, chopped herbs, and spices.
  2. 2 Stuff the pigeons with the mixture.
  3. 3 Seal the opening and grill the pigeons until golden and cooked through.
  4. 4 Serve hot with a choice of rice or freekeh.
All Africa recipes — Egypt — Cairo — Egyptian Grilled Pigeon
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