Savoring the Flavors of Egypt: A Vibrant Cultural Celebration in New Jersey

The aroma of sizzling kabobs and the lively chatter of a community coming together filled the air at the Egyptian food festival held at St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church in New Brunswick, New Jersey. This annual event, a testament to the enduring spirit of Egyptian culture, transported visitors to the bustling streets of the Middle East, offering a delectable taste of the country's rich culinary heritage.

Bringing the Essence of Egypt to the Garden State

Immersing in the Sights, Sounds, and Flavors of Egypt

As I stepped into the church grounds, the familiar scents of my childhood in Damascus, Syria, enveloped me. The smoke from the gigantic grills and the lively atmosphere evoked memories of the vibrant streets of my home city, where the aroma of freshly grilled kofta and the melodic tunes of the Ney (Arabian flute) filled the air. It was as if I had been transported back in time, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Middle Eastern life.The festival was a true celebration of Egyptian culture, with over 2,000 people, both Egyptian and from around the world, gathering to savor the delectable specialties on offer. From the delicate stuffed grape leaves to the rich bechamel and the flaky spinach and cheese pies, the array of mouth-watering dishes was a testament to the culinary prowess of the Egyptian community.

A Sense of Community and Belonging

As I wandered through the festival, I was struck by the palpable sense of community and belonging that permeated the air. Young and old, holding hands and embracing, laughed and ate together, creating a tapestry of shared experiences and cultural identity. The traditional Arabic dress and the Egyptian-inspired fashions added to the vibrant atmosphere, transporting me to the streets of Cairo and the banks of the Nile.The festival was not just about the food; it was a celebration of the Egyptian community's resilience and their desire to share their heritage with their American neighbors. Father Kyrillos Said, who immigrated to the United States in 1990, spoke of the festival's significance, saying, "We started this festival when the church was born 40 years ago. The entire community comes together to celebrate our identity as Egyptians, our sense of community."

Preserving and Sharing Cultural Traditions

The festival was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the community. Mariam Gandour, one of the cooks, revealed that it takes two months of preparation to ensure the food is ready for the event. "We serve the food of our country, and people come from everywhere. We love sharing our culture with our American neighbors," she said.The festival's origins can be traced back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the Egyptian community in New Brunswick would gather in their homes to celebrate their heritage. As the community grew, they purchased land and built the St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church, with the food festival becoming a way to raise funds for the church and support those in need.Nadia Shenouda, one of the original founders of the church, expressed her joy at seeing the festival thrive. "I love seeing the thousands of people enjoying our food and church community. It fills my heart with so much joy," she said.

A Culinary Journey through Egypt

As I indulged in the delectable dishes, I was transported back to my childhood memories. The stuffed grape leaves were so delicious that I couldn't help but close my eyes and savor every bite, much to the amusement of my table companions. The bechamel, a dish that reminded me of my mother's cooking, was a true delight, and I found myself devouring it as if it were my last meal.The festival not only offered a taste of Egypt but also a glimpse into the vibrant culture and the strong sense of community that the Egyptian diaspora has cultivated in New Jersey. It was a celebration of resilience, tradition, and the power of food to bring people together, transcending borders and creating a shared experience.For those craving a taste of Egypt, the festival at St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church is a must-visit event. But the culinary journey doesn't end there, as the region boasts a wealth of Middle Eastern restaurants that offer a diverse array of flavors and experiences. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply curious about the rich culinary heritage of Egypt, this festival and the surrounding dining options are sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the vibrant and captivating culture of the Middle East.