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.
Semsemeya is a traditional Egyptian sesame brittle that shatters in your mouth, releasing a bold, nutty flavor, unapologetic sweetness, and a delicate floral hint. It fills food markets each year during the celebration of Al Mawlid Al-Nabawy Al-Sharif.
Ruz Sayadiah is fluffy Egyptian rice infused with caramelized onions and warm spices—aromatic, earthy, and irresistibly flavorful. Its smoky sweetness and subtle heat make it the perfect companion to fish and seafood.
Samak Mashwi bel Rada(Bran-coated fish) is a traditional Alexandrian fish dish where whole fish is coated in wheat bran and grilled to smoky, tender perfection. This Egyptian technique seals in moisture, creating juicy flesh with a distinctive charred flavor.
Hydrating Watermelon Mint Smoothie- When it’s scorching hot outside and you need a way to cool off and hydrate, this watermelon smoothie is the perfect treat! It only requires three simple ingredients to make.
Waraket Lahma is a traditional Egyptian beef dish featuring tender, juicy slices of beef and vibrant vegetables, all wrapped in parchment paper and baked to juicy, melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
Discover how to make the perfect Egyptian Macarona Forn (aka macarona Béchamel), Egypt’s ultimate pasta bake. Get expert tips, freezer-friendly instructions, vegetarian swaps, and answers to FAQs like best pasta types, béchamel fixes, and make-ahead options.
Succulent chicken with crispy, golden skin, nestled over a bed of fork-tender potatoes and bathed in a zesty mustard-lemon sauce infused with fresh and dried herbs. Juicy, aromatic, and tomato-free, my mom’s “Sanyet Feralkh Bel Batates is bright, comforting, and bursting with flavors.
Sad El Hanak is a heritage Egyptian no-bake dessert made simply from flour, ghee, and sugar. Its playful name—“mouth stuffer”—hints at how filling and comforting this old-world sweet truly is.
Sobia is a traditional Egyptian cold beverage that promises to tantalize your taste buds and invigorate your senses. Perfectly blending the creamy richness of milk with the delicate sweetness of coconut, Sobia is a hydrating drink that transports you to the bustling markets of Cairo.