From the Pharoahs to Eid al-Fitr table – Egyptian 'kahk'

CAIRO - 23 June 2017: From the times of the pharaohs to the modern day Eid al-Fitr table, the delicious Eid al-Fitr constitutes the three days feast following the end of fasting that takes place during the holy month of Ramadan.



) Women holding kahk- Mohamed Gamal


Although kahk is one of the main staples to mark the occasion, it has been found that these treats date back the pharaonic era. Egyptologist Magda El Mehdawy in her book “The pharaohs kitchen”, deal with this topic.



Women making kahk at the event - Mohamed Gamal


She found evidence in the ancient Pharaonic drawings about baking cookies, yet it was only later linked to the Islamic feast.


Lady decorating kahk - Mohamed Gamal


An event was held by The Department of Archeological Awareness and Cultural Development in Alexandria, under the supervision of the Ministry of Antiquities, on June 21 to model the production of kahk since the pharaonic age.



Decorated kahk - Mohamed Gamal


“Women in Egypt often gather over a table to make the lightly spiced and heavily-powdered sugar cookies as part of the yearly tradition for Eid al-Fitr.” Torkeya Goda, the owner of Antika association told Egypt Today, and she added that her organization arranges this event each year as a part of their campaign for raising awareness about Egyptian traditions for the new generations.


A boy holding kahk tray about to be baked - Mohamed Gamal



Women gathering and making kahk - Mohamed Gamal

The event was held in Karamooz area of Alexandria.