The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Fava Beans, aka foul, is a
highly common and agricultural product grown in Egypt. It holds a number one
spot in the nation’s diet, because it is eaten by both the rich and the poor
equally. Among some of the benefits this magical bean encompasses is L-DOPA; a
substance used to treat diseases such as Parkinson’s. Egyptians eat this
product in multiple forms, including drying it up and eating it raw. Of course
it is used as a main ingredient in taameya (falafels) and that dish we all
love, foul; fava beans mashed and cooked with salt, oil, cumin and garlic. Anyone
who has stepped on Egyptian soil must have tried it, but living in Cairo can
teach you a thing or two about foul. Though simple in creation, not every place
can execute it to perfection.

Attia, a famous and popular foul in Maadi, cart is hidden in a corner on Road 250 beside Maadi Grand Mall. The setting is nothing fancy, however, that
shouldn’t reflect on their amazing foul. Usually the place is packed with
people during Ramadan as it truly is one of the most famed sohour options in southern Cairo. Legend has it that Aam Attia – the eccentric chef – speaks five
languages; this isn’t that much of a stretch considering that the place is
visited by a lot of foreigners and expats.

Attia’s approximately 5×5 meter area is covered by trees,
giving an unfamiliar feeling of seclusion in Cairo. Just remember anything that
falls off from the trees is merely protein. Plastic chairs and tables are
scattered in a semi-organised manner around the whole space. There are no menus since only two types of foul dishes are offered; helw (sweet with tehina) and
harr (spicy). Additions to the foul such as boiled eggs or salad are an option.
Side orders such as tehina, salad, or onions are also on offer and your order
arrives quickly with sufficient bread. Timing could be an issue, though, depending
on how busy the place is. If you plan to be there for sohour, we suggest
you arrive earlier than you would do at any other place.

With a plate of foul costing a mere 5LE, one can expect to pay no more
than 15LE at Attia to walk away satisfied. Like no other dining experience in
Cairo, the foul prodigy that is Attia offers that special Ramadan atmosphere all
year round.