The Occasions category on Chez Nermine is a heartfelt tribute to the diverse celebrations that shape my life as a Copt, Egyptian, and American. Each recipe and story weaves together cultural traditions, cherished memories, and the joy of sharing food. From Coptic feasts honoring Lent and Christmas to Egyptian holidays marked by family and community gatherings, and American celebrations like Thanksgiving, my kitchen brings together the flavors and customs of three intertwined identities. This category celebrates food’s power to preserve heritage, connect generations, and create lasting moments of togetherness.
“Baskoot Nashader” (Egyptian ammonia cookies) are festive butter cookies that are baked to celebrate religious feasts in Egypt. They are fairly easy to make and a a lovely addition to your cookies repertoire.
Sweet, acidic, and spicy, Egyptian Mesaka’a hits all your taste buds at once. Mesaka’a is formed of layers of meaty fried eggplants studded with mild and spicy pepper, smothered under rich garlicky-tomato sauce and warmed with a touch of cumin.
Don’t google “manakeesh near me”, and instead make this easy, scrumptious and economic recipe of vegan Zaatar manakeesh (flatbread) for breakfast or snack.
After years of trial, error, and Thanksgiving chaos, I uncovered 19 hard-earned lessons that make hosting shockingly easy—plus a foolproof menu perfected over 10 years. This is the real Made-Easy roadmap to a calm, confident, and stress-free Thanksgiving.
Make authentic Egyptian chicken shawarma at home — juicy, aromatic, and layered with bold Middle Eastern spices. This easy recipe brings the flavors of Cairo’s shawarma stalls to your kitchen, with oven and stovetop methods for perfectly charred, flavorful results.
Egyptian grilled quail, a thousands-year-old tradition, showcases smoky aromas and tender, flavorful meat that echo Egypt’s ancient kitchens. With its crispy skin and juicy, spiced interior, this timeless delicacy continues to shine across Middle Eastern and mediterranean cuisine.
St. Giovanni petit pain is a pillowy-soft Alexandrian roll with a golden crust and a milky, buttery sweetness. Light yet nourishing, it balances carbs for energy with proteins and fats for a satisfying lunch box, snack or breakfast.
Discover Gawafa Bel Laban (Egyptian Guava Milkshake) — a creamy, refreshing blend of ripe guava, milk, and a hint of lemon that’s both nutritious and irresistibly delicious.
Learn how to make authentic Egyptian Aish Baladi at home—soft, smoky, and fiber-rich whole wheat pita bread with a wide pocket for your favorite fillings.