South east cairo sept 2014 issue 4

Truly Love Egypt South East Cairo September 2014 Issue 4

The Japanese Garden Helwan Maadi Koshary recipe

PLEASE TURN ON YOUR SOUND

The song that is playing is Nari Nareen by Hisham Abbas & Indian singer Jayashri

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE Helwan & Maadi’s military past and British connection

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TRULY LOVE NATURE The amazing valleys in Helwan & Maadi

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TRULY LOVE DAY ACTIVITIES The eclectic's dream day in Helwan & Maadi

Cont 6 Wadi Degla

12 SCRAPBOOK PAGE

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TRULY LOVE HISTORY Japanese Garden; real Buddhas included

14 Japanese Garden

tents 18 Fustat shopping

28 Koshary recipe

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TRULY LOVE SHOPPING Maadi’s exquisite shopping experience & Fustat’s truly cultural one

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TRULY LOVE NIGHTLIFE Maadi; feast on this!

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TRULY LOVE INVESTING At Helwan & Maadi, business opportunities await!

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TRULY LOVE CUISINES Koshary: one of the most fulfilling Egyptian dishes

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TRULY LOVE OPINIONS Mariadas Susaiappan

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UPCOMING ISSUE 3

EDITOR’S MESSAGE Our mission is to deliver the most accurate, up-to-date information in order to show different kinds of visitors what may interest them.

Maadi is an affluent district in the south east of Cairo. Its modern history started in 1904 when the railway between Cairo and Helwan was built. The district was planned in 1905 by a Canadian officer, Captain Alexander J. Adams. Maadi owes its wide boulevards and large villas to his vision. It is also said that nonMaadi residents get lost there because his plan included ensuring the safety of army officials living in Maadi at the time.

Years later, during WWII, Maadi had an important role in the Military history of New Zealand; around 76,000 members of the First Echelon trained at a camp at Wadi Degla and Tel al-Maadi and was their main overseas base.

Moreover, a British interrogation centre was also located in Maadi.

As Maadi is still the home of a huge expatriate community, there are numerous western restaurants, many churches, and a synagogue.

Maadi also houses the Maadi Sporting Club, the Maadi Library, the Maadi Camp Rowing Club and

the Egyptian Geological Museum.

Helwan’s modern history started at about the same time as Maadi; in 1903 when the Astronomical Observatory was built and used to observe Halley's Comet. Harold Knox-Shaw and John Reynolds, two of the earliest Astronomy specialists, worked there. In the early 20th century, a major British airbase was built and the 6th Armoured Division was located at Helwan during WWII. President Gamal Abdel Nasser decided to industrialize Egypt in 1959 and chose Helwan for this.

Helwan soon developed into a massive steel works zone which included various automobile factories. Other ind ustries included iron, textiles and cement.

Maadi & Helwan are both served by the Cairo Metro's Line 1. There are three stops in Maadi.

Alternatively, you can get there by a regular taxi or a Nile taxi.

Manager, Editor and Designer

Amani Adel Sarkiss

Manager, Editor and Designer Amani Adel Sarkiss Freelance Writers Aisha Abdelwahab Basma Amer Heba Ghoneim Refan AbdelNabi Photography Yasser El-Rasoul: p26 Fatma Lasheen: p8 top Hany Nagaty: p9 Amani Sarkiss: cover, p2 Japanese Garden, p12 & 13 Japanese Garden, p14 to 17 Amal Sarkiss: p28, 32 Mariadas Susaiappan: p30, p31 Yahoo Images: all other photos

Ideas and content are copyright and property of Sarkiss Publicity and Advertising Registered in Egypt: 64958 truly-love-egypt@sarkiss.net 5

TRULY LOVE NATURE

By Refan AbdelNabi

Wadi Degla

Home to the cemetery of the First Dynasty of Ancient Egypt, Helwan carries a pleasant surprise for its visitors. From its kind people to its therapeutic springs, Helwan is well-known for its rich industrial minerals such as iron, steel and cement which have significantly aided its development. In addition, the valleys of Helwan are abundant: Wadi Hof, Wadi Gerawi and Wadi Rasheed. In nearby Maadi lay the protected area of Wadi Degla.

Three kilometers north of Helwan, Wadi Hof is graced with a colorful landscape and mysterious fossil discoveries alongside its trails. A slippery goat trail -consisting of a single track- appears before Box Canyon. Dry, rocky soil makes up the typical climate of Helwan. Therefore, plants in Wadi Hof show some growth only after rainfall.

The rocky mountains of Wadi Hof are a major tourist attraction even though the trails are physically demanding; due to the desert environment and elevation of 45 meters leading to a hefty canyon. It is preferable for wellrounded and experienced riders to go on bike excursions while children shouldn’t because of the cliff-side trails. However, experienced riders are still advised to be accompanied by a partner or a guide because the trails are complex and you may fall into another trail leading to another valley or mountain. If you’re not familiar with the trails, go with someone who is or take a compass and a map. Bike excursions take between 2 to 5 hours and are usually done during the daytime so don’t forget your water bottles!

Renowned for its alabaster and earliest dam, Wadi Gerawi has been busy since the Fourth Dynasty. Under Khufu’s rule, the world’s earliest known dam was built in the mountains of Wadi Gerawi to the west of Helwan. The ancient remains of AlKafara Dam can still be seen near the locals’ homes, with the sides still standing steady. Rich in alabaster, the dam was created to salvage drinking water for workers of the mines during the winter months when it

Box Canyon, Wadi Hof

Wadi Hof descent

Wadi Gerawi

Cont.

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Wadi Degla

Wadi Degla

Wadi Degla

typically rained.

A more fertile valley -or “wadi” in Arabic- lay southeast of Helwan. Wadi Rasheed is a beautiful valley with abundant watering points and is therefore occupied by Bedouins.

The protected areas of Egypt tend to be generous in fossils and have unique rock formations and exciting animals. Only 10 minutes away from Maadi lay the protected area of Wadi Degla, maintaining 18 reptile species and 64 types of plants. The 30 kilometer valley is home to 12 species of birds as well as mountain rabbits, red foxes, bats and deer to name a few. Limestone formations are present in the once covered sea area; approximately 55 million years ago. Therefore, Wadi Degla’s fossils have existed since the second epoch, Eocene Epoch, of five epochs belonging to the Tertiary Period.

Nature lovers will enjoy Wadi Degla and, luckily, its activities are fit for older children. It

is more laid back in comparison to Wadi Hof; even those who are not into physical activities will still appreciate the scenery and a picnic!

However, barbecuing isn’t allowed.

Wadi Degla’s rock formations have been explored by many. The land is not too deep or tricky for inexperienced individuals to walk and discover. The area welcomes joggers, hikers, climbers, cyclists and your regular adventurer! Keep in mind that it is sandy and dusty, so you may want to take a scarf to cover your nose and mouth when you need to. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes that are also suitable for hiking.

The weather tends to get hot there so it is preferable to go early in the morning or during the winter in the daytime because it is cooler then. If the heat gets overwhelming, you can go into a cave and cool off. Furthermore, the path is not equipped with items like tissues, water or food. So bring your own in a backpack.

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TRULY LOVE DAY ACTIVITIES

By Basma Amer Greater Cairo, home to millions of Egyptians, is one of the most culturally innovative cities you will ever experience. During your travels in Cairo, you will definitely get the feel of the Egyptian culture, but what makes the capital special are the legacies left behind by Ancient Egyptians, the Muhammd Ali Dynasty and Europe. There are many places that radiate this vibe, one of them being east of the Nile.

There you can take a walk down memory lane at the Helwan Wax Museum. The wax museum contains many stories of civilizations, revolutions and famous people embodied in meticulously crafted wax statues. Of the notable and famous figures crafted in the museum are King Richard I, the Lion Heart of England, Cleopatra and President Gamal Abdel Nasser.

If you wish to continue your walk through history, located right on the Nile is King Farouk’s summer rest house, also known as 10

King Farouk’s Corner Museum or Helwan Corner Museum. The novelty of this house is apparent in its architecture, as it was designed to look like a cruise ship. Inside, the house has a unique character. There are replicas of ancient Egyptian furniture tied into the house’s classic essence of the forties. Outside, the gardens have beautiful arbors and give you a view of the Nile River.

There are other notable sceneries in Helwan that would make fabulous additions to your vacation album, one of which is the Japanese Garden. There you can enjoy the picturesque scenery of fishponds, pagodas and Buddha statues.

Another beautiful scene, and one of my personal favorites, may be captured during your cruise of the Nile on a traditional felucca.

The felucca has been around since the Pharaonic era and used to be the main means of transportation. Today, it is a great way for

Previous page, left: Helwan Wax Museum scene depicting Cleopatra committing suicide.

Previous page, right: Helwan Wax Museum scene depicting baby Moses being saved from the River Nile.

Above left and right: Inside King Farouk’s Helwan summer rest house.

tourists and locals alike to experience the Nile.

The felucca travels down the Nile River giving you a panoramic view of the city. The cruise is a relaxing trip away from the noise of the city and is suitable for couples, friends or a family.

Helwan and Maadi have many touristic places which are appropriate for a variety of groups and ages. Such places include the cascades.

There are three cascades located in Helwan: Wadi Hof, Wadi Gerawi, and Wadi Rasheed. A fourth cascade, Wadi Degla, is located in Maadi. The cascades are perfect for day excursions and hikes.

After your hike, make a stop at the thermal spa, Helwan Les Baines or Bains Sulfurique de Helwan, designed in Moorish architecture.

The spas consist of hot springs containing sulfur and can be used for a variety of treatments.

Tips: Helwan Wax Museum: It has been under

renovations since 2009 so, while planning your trip, be sure to ask whether it’s open.

King Farouk’s summer rest house: Must buy tickets to enter and working hours are Sunday to Friday 8 AM to 3 PM. The Japanese Garden: he entrance fee is under $1 and is beautiful to visit during the spring while the trees are blossoming.

Felucca Ride: Try going in groups because you can get a better offer on group deals. You can schedule a tour yourself or ask your hotel or your tour guide to schedule one for you.

Some voyages can go on for several days, but accommodations are primitive so there are no bathrooms, for example. You should bring your own food and drinks, as they are not supplied. Don’t forget to tip the captain.

Helwan Les Baines: Tickets cost $2 approx.

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SCRAPBOOK PAGE

Wadi Degla

TRULY LOVE HISTORY

By Aisha AbdelWahab

In a country like Egypt, it isn’t much of a surprise when you find different cultures intermingling with one other. However, it is still a surprise when you discover a Japanese Garden in Egypt, let alone in Cairo’s Helwan District.

As you let the fact of a Japanese botanical garden imported from the Far East sink in, you might need to grab your keys and camera and head to Helwan, because you are in for a ride to the location in which you will find your Zen. Created in the 1917 by Zulfiqar Pasha, Egypt's once Grand Chamberlain for Sultan Hussein, Egypt's ruler at the time; it became the perfect getaway for Cairo's aristocrats, such as King Farouk. During WWII, the British army kept an airbase in Helwan and some soldiers such as Reg Terry spent time in the Japanese Garden, since it was, at the time, one of Helwan's most exotic and green gardens. For these reasons, Cont.

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A small shallow lake in the Japanese Garden, surrounded by statues of Buddha and his disciples.

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A big statue of Buddha is in the left side of the garden. Statues of dragons and elephants are at various parts of the garden.

the Japanese Garden is considered a historical area, and the fact that it is the only Japanese garden in the Middle East adds up to the uniqueness of the place.

Even though, at first, it might come off as your average, everyday park, it is much more than this. It is by walking towards the right part of the park, the one situated on a hill -rather than the left side which is flat land- that the features of the park get really interesting. As soon as you turn right, you will find a giant Buddha head welcoming you to the journey through this park.

Lovely Japanese pathways, many of which are surmounted by arbors once used as tea

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shelters, take you from one part of the garden to another. When you visit, you may find that most of the waterways are dry; however, you will find fish ponds there and about on your path. The largest area of water is a lake surrounded by beautiful statues of Buddha and his disciples. Towards the left of the garden, there is a big Buddha statue. Statues of dragons and elephants are at various parts of the garden.

You will find Japanese cottages throughout the garden where you can sit and relax and just enjoy the Japanese experience. Various exotic trees and plants, such as bamboo, are an added bonus to the Far Eastern feel.

You can enjoy being with family, friends, a loved one or even all alone as the park suits every age as well as every state of mind you might be in. Are you feeling energetic? Have a blast in the paddling boats. Are you feeling rather relaxed or lazy? Sit in the shade and enjoy the scenery or a good book. Are you in the mood for a gathering? Pack your food and have a picnic with your loved ones.

good time to have! You could take pleasure in the relaxing emptiness of the park on weekdays or rather the joyful spirit on weekends and national holidays. Less than $1 is all you need to have a great time in this blissful place.

There are various activities to enjoy, plenty of things to see, a Japanese culture to admire and a

Lush gardens and century old trees adorn the Japanese Garden.

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TRULY LOVE SHOPPING

By Aisha AbdelWahab Don't you just love these laid back days when you know you don’t have to set an alarm for the next meeting or for any particularly crucial event? These days tend to be the best, hands down! Nevertheless, when those laid back "days" turn into laid back "months ", some action needs to be inserted into your life one way or another while keeping that smooth vibe going on for you. This very thing would be a well-deserved shopping spree.

And where do you go when you want to pamper yourself or update your wardrobe?

Nowhere other than Maadi! Put simply, every clothing fantasy you have ever had exists in that very place; from well known international designer boutiques to just funky/punky/ extravagant/ out of this world shops.

Everything will be at your fingertips in no time and once you reach the thirty minute break -after going through thousands of racks and trying on a hundred different shoes- you wouldn't need to walk very far to spot a restaurant or a coffee shop. You wouldn't even need to worry about that grocery list or that medicine you ran out of because you will most definitely find supermarkets and pharmacies with abundant supplies on every corner of the street.

Various handmade products at Fustat; Hegaza woodwork and Akhmim embroidery.

Cont.

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Colourful, handmade Akhmim embroidery depicting Egyptian life.

Colourful, handmade Akhmim embroidery depicting the Nile, various animals and farm life.

Although the sound of staying in Maadi and having your money blown away on anything and everything you lay your eyes on sounds tempting, there is still this creative, charitable, unsatisfied side of you that will most definitely be granted in that very famous place called Fustat in Old Cairo, open 8 AM to 4 PM. Once you get there, you will soon realize that Fustat is a unique market on its own, as it is a shopping area run by the A.P.E organization (Association for the Protection of the Environment). All their products are handmade and most are recycled. Shops display different kinds of handicrafts from around the country; from manufactured clothes (richly embroidered galabiyyas and Khameya

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needlework), Akhmim embroidery, jewelry and furniture (recycled rugs, antique carpets, chandeliers and handmade lanterns) to allnatural beauty products (such as soap), Fayum pottery and Hegaza wood work. Fustat delivers a truly pleasant shopping experience.

You will be caught up in the madness of the colors and the genuine aura that adds up a homey feel to the place. Whether strolling by the shops or genuinely admiring the beauty of the handmade products, you won't have much to worry about as most of the products are affordable and the sales pressure is low.

Most products are handmade at a working site in Kattameya owned by the A.P.E organization. This association implements

projects, initiates recycling centers (such as the weaving and patchwork quilting center in Mokattam as well as a paper recycling project) and raises awareness through numerous activities for the purpose of supporting garbage collectors in Egypt to improve their standard of living and improve the environment. It's a source of income to the men as well as the women and offers opportunities to the less fortunate to seek

education, learn basic healthcare procedures as well as correct leadership skills.

Knowing that, when you return home, you will feel satisfied as you didn't only shop to pamper yourself, but you also financially helped the less fortunate and the overall maintenance of the Egyptian environment.

It's a win-win situation.

TRULY LOVE NIGHTLIFE

By Heba Ghoneim Where there is a Nile, there is a life! Okay, so I altered “Where there is a will, there is a way!”, but I can’t say that I am wrong! The Pharoahs believed it and modern Egyptians also believe it; the Nile is our key to life as well as entertainment. Part of this extravagant Nile reaches a lovely place called Maadi. What can Maadi coupled with the Nile offer? They can offer a lot more than you can imagine, from restaurants to hotels, and fantastic Nile cruises!

Along the Nile, also known as the Corniche, are a variety of restaurants and cafes that appease to different tastes and likings. The Platform has seven restaurants that include rich Lebanese cuisine that gently melts in your mouth, a fine restaurant dedicated for burgers (because we all need a delicious cheesy burger every now and then), a restaurant dedicated for

wings (I know, it sounds heavenly! Wait until you find out their name!), and a restaurant that contains international cuisines, because sometimes your taste buds want an explosion of flavor and culture all at once! The Platform isn’t just on the Nile; it’s also constructed as a huge boat, except it doesn’t move. However, it gives you the feel of cruising on the Nile, minus the movement.

This isn’t the only boat that isn’t designed to cruise yet has delightful food. Another boat has ten wonderful restaurants. One of the restaurants has karaoke nights every Thursday and is well known for its innovative food. The restaurant also includes a PS3 in its cozy place in order to entertain its visitors and create a warm and sociable environment. Other

restaurants include authentic Egyptian, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines. Party lovers, I didn’t forget you one bit! One of these flavorsome restaurants has a dance floor with some serious light designs and offers all your favorite drinks. Get your dancing shoes on because it is definitely going to be a musical night!

So are there any boat restaurants that actually move? The answer is an enthusiastic YES! There is a large boat that cruises for two hours as you dine. Their splendid cuisine includes Greek and Mediterranean. That is not all!

These guys know how to entertain their guests pretty well! A belly dancer, a band and a folkloric show are what these guys are all about! You wanted Egyptian? You definitely got it! Enjoy their finest grilled meals that I long for every time I go there, sit back (or dance) and contemplate Cairo’s lights reaching out to the Nile.

Cruising Egyptian style !

You don’t need to take a fancy boat ride in order to cruise on the River Nile. You can try a

crazy, colorful Egyptian boat. All you have to do is get your loved ones, family, friends or join others on one of these boats and let the fun begin! The captain will provide you with upbeat Egyptian music. Take in every minute of that clapping and dancing while pondering the beauty of Mother Nature! Observe your fellow passengers as well. Nothing is more rewarding than observing people converse and laugh whole heartedly with one another.

Where do I stay?

Overlooking the Nile is a bouquet of comfortable and well-appointed five star hotels. Some of these hotels are internationally well known for their high quality food, service, overall maintenance as well as hospitality. Honestly, I can’t imagine something more tranquil and beautiful than waking up to the site of the Nile gently flowing as the sun rises.

Is that all?

The Corniche isn’t the only place to look forward to when visiting Maadi. Road 9 has divine restaurant lounges that include the best Cont.

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scenery as well as outstanding food. One of the lounges appeases every craving you have ever had but in the most nutritional way possible; from smoothies to waffles to anything your heart desires. This place has got you covered. It also has a home aura to it. It has the comfiest couches and beanbags I have ever used. It also includes outdoor and indoor sitting areas so you can choose the view you prefer. For all of you shisha or huka lovers, they have all of the tobacco flavors ever invented. Sit back, relax, and puff away. The other lounge is Moroccan, and you know what that means; aesthetically gorgeous and rich Moroccan food with an extremely relaxing atmosphere. Last but not least, the famous Chinese restaurant! This restaurant is off the hook! Not only does it have luscious Chinese ingredients; it also has the most whimsical scenery you will ever see. Imagine yourself inside a dragon! Yes, you read that right!

Inside a red dragon -minus the grotesque anatomy of a dragon of course, just the cool parts only. Now, if you love to drink, this is definitely your go to place, and they have free wifi for us technologically dependent beings!

Don’t forget bowling!

As a lover of bowling or any game for that matter, I have been to this place quite a few times. In 14 Palestine Road in Maadi, there is a mall that has an area for bowling, air hockey and darts. It’s pretty grand! But you have to wear socks before you play bowling because they will not allow you to bowl unless you wear ugly bowling shoes. On top of the game floor you’ll find one of my favorite restaurants! Their food is insanely delicious and their service is wonderful! It’s a lovely place, definitely worth discovering.

Wishes to the reader Wishing you an awesome outing! Don’t forget to email us your experience.

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TRULY LOVE INVESTING

By Refan AbdelNabi This section is dedicated to small and medium sized investors looking for possibilities to invest their money from afar or move to a country where sunshine, sea and relaxation are a way of life.

Most districts of Cairo have hidden treasures that complement one another, creating a better experience for tourists and locals alike. This is true for both Maadi and Helwan. Maadi is an escape route from the loud streets of everyday Cairo and one may escape further into the valleys of Helwan, thereby enabling several projects, including eco-friendly ones, to be profitable in these two Cairo districts.

Industrialized Helwan was once known for resources that are no longer manufactured. So while different potential projects lay ahead, previous projects should be revived. With its abundance in wildlife, hot springs and limestone, Helwan has great foundations for an eco-investment!

Egypt is covered in rich soils, unique remains and, more significantly, natural treatments.

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Like Farafra Oasis, Ain Helwan has maintained a healing spirit within its hot sulfur and saline springs since it used to be a popular destination for Egypt’s and Europe’s upper classes during the 1880s. The dry desert weather aided in accentuating the benefits that lie within the springs; clearing up kidney and lung conditions that otherwise cannot be cured in a damp environment. The discovery of this natural rheumatic healer goes all the way back to ancient times; also curing catarrhs and skin diseases. Therefore, a spa would help revive the springs and would compete against the industrial environment that Helwan has transformed into.

Alabaster has been in the Egyptian industry since ancient times as a common source for manufacturers primarily in handicrafts because

of its fragile texture. From the west bank of Luxor, alabaster has been taken to create some of the most elegant and memorable artifacts and since Wadi Gerawi is also abundant in this pure product, then it is fair to say that an alabaster company in the industrial Helwan is needed.

With commuting being difficult in Cairo, a modern well-equipped cinema in the heart of Helwan would be a great bonus to the residents.

It would mean not having to drive to other districts of Cairo to enjoy the big screen.

With a lack of shops at the Helwan and Maadi valleys to offer basics like water or a sandwich, visitors have to pack everything they need for their excursions. It is possible to have a mobile shop that can either stand at the start of their trip or at the peak itself, where they rest and gaze at the sunset. However, not all the valleys can have this option because of the rocky terrain; therefore, it’s preferable to look into Wadi Gerawi, Wadi Rasheed and Wadi Degla.

Because it is rare to encounter the valleys’ wildlife during an excursion, it would be exciting to see it at an open zoo! Gaining more knowledge and interacting with the animals would be an enticing tourist attraction. The clear weather and large space would aid this project in being creative and would ensure the animals are not exposed to the loud city noises and pollution. Helwan’s valleys thrive in nature so integrating birds and plants in this park would create a harmonious dreamland!

Maadi residents tend to be foreigners and middle class Egyptians. This is a large consumer based market. Looking for a taste of home but experiencing Egypt first-hand is what foreign residents hope for! Investing in grand malls, sports related centers, opera houses and the like would make it easier for them to experience new, nearby events. Playing sports is of utmost importance to Maadi residents.

Thus investing in a topnotch sports center that hosts the sports currently lacking in Maadi would bring people together and newcomers

would find it easier to engage in the society as well. Making these leisure outings more accessible to Maadi residents would attract a large group of consumers for investors.

Although there is a grand mall in Maadi, many famous brands have shops individually lined on the block. Investing in a mall that collects all these brand name shops with a twist and additions would attract customers from all over Cairo as well, not just Maadi.

For those who prefer to invest in import-export businesses, Akhmim products would be an excellent investment. Akhmim is an impressive town in the governorate of Sohag known for its interesting ancient remains and colorful handicrafts. It’s no secret that Egypt has a rich textile industry so this investment would be worthwhile. In addition, being the distributor of their distinct designs would give the investor individuality in the chosen market. The crafts range from pillowcases and handbags to mats!

The artifacts would be sold in other Middle Eastern countries, Europe and the Americas.

For now, they are sold at Fustat in Old Cairo, home to several historical churches as well as the first mosque built in Africa!

Regulations and Safety Issues 1. Do not drink tap water.

2. Do not eat uncooked vegetables unless you are dining at a fine restaurant or a well-known fast food chain.

3. Do not eat food sold on the street.

4. Traffic in Cairo is unpredictable. A drive may take 10 minutes one day and 1 hour the next. Plan accordingly.

5. Although there is no real reason for it, it’s safer to keep your passport at your hotel and move inside Cairo with a copy.

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TRULY LOVE CUISINES

By Amal Sarkiss

Koshary

Koshary is a famous Egyptian main dish, made using rice, black lentils and pasta. It is served with spicy tomato/chili sauce and garlic & vinegar sauce. Chickpeas and fried onions are used as garnish.

In Egypt, there are several restaurants that are specialized only in koshary.

The dish is high in proteins and carbohydrates and is best served with a tossed salad.

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Preparation time

Cooking Time

Serves

30 min

1 hour

4 –6

Ingredients: 2 tbsp sunflower oil 2 cups medium grain rice ½ cup of vermicelli (optional) 3 cups vegetable stock 1 cup black lentils 1 bay leaf 2 cups water 1 cup small tubetti pasta (size 57 or 60) 2 cups water Salt & black pepper to taste For the tomato/chili Sauce: 2 tbsp sunflower oil 1 small onion, finely diced 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

4 tbsp unseasoned cooked, pureed tomatoes 1 tbsp white vinegar Salt & black pepper to taste ¼ tsp red chili flakes (if desired) For the garlic & vinegar sauce: 3 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp salt 2 squeezes of lime 8 garlic cloves, crushed 2 cups white vinegar ½ cup water For the garnish: 2 onions, finely sliced and sprinkled with salt Oil for deep frying 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can chickpeas)

Directions: Heat 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the rice and fry it for 2 minutes, then add the vegetable stock. Bring it to a boil. Decrease the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked. If you decide to add vermicelli, fry it first till golden brown then add it to the rice before adding the stock.

Rinse the lentils under cold water and put them in another medium saucepan with 2 cups of water.

Add the garlic, cumin and bay leaf and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Once cooked, add the salt and stir. Strain any excess liquid if necessary. Chickpeas are cooked in the same way as the lentils.

Cook the pasta according to package instructions then drain.

To make the tomato/chili sauce: Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and add the onion. Cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté until golden brown. Add the tomato sauce, salt and pepper to taste, vinegar and chili flakes (if desired). Bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

To make the garlic & vinegar sauce: Mix the crushed garlic with cumin and salt. Add the lime squeeze, vinegar and water to the mix. Stir on medium heat and bring to a boil.

To make the crispy onions: Heat the oil in a skillet. Add the onions and fry until dark brown. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain and cool.

Presentation: Layer the rice, pasta and lentils on top of one another. Top with some of the spicy tomato sauce, vinegar sauce, chickpeas and crispy onions. Serve with the remainder of the toppings and sauces in individual plates.

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TRULY LOVE OPINIONS My visit to the cradle of civilization; Egypt!

As the aircraft hovered over the skies of Cairo, the enchanting scenery below of brown mountains, a bit of the desert and of the world’s longest river; the River Nile and the ever young Giza Pyramids came into my view.

I was fully prepared to witness the land of contrasts; fertile on the one side by the perennial River Nile, deserts on the other side, ancient pyramids, the ultra modern Cairo city with its new international airport catering to flights from all over the world and the ever cheerful and friendly people of Egypt.

The airport staff was extremely accommodative and ushered us to the bus and to our accommodation at the hotel. Dinner 30

was laid out on board a boat. The entertainers gave us a glimpse of the cultural diversity of Egypt with songs, skits and dances. The culmination was a belly dance and ended with a sumptuous dinner.

Our visit to the Giza Pyramids -though in the hot sun- was as much rewarding as the sight of the ancient monument with all its secrets in terms of its contents, height, dimensions, architecture, angles and size. I climbed up a few steps on the unbelievable and formidable structure. Rocks properly cut to size and easily weigh a few tons. How they managed to transport them across the river and how many men were employed to build them exactly the same is still a mystery to me.

The Sphinx was the culmination of all. The rocks were properly shaped into a half human and half animal figure as the guardian of the Giza Pyramids and thus guardian of the whole of Egypt!

With a heavy heart, I left Egypt by air, vowing to visit again to see more enchanting places, hills, mountains, monasteries and the ever friendly people of Egypt. The call of our Egyptian guide, 'Yalla yalla' is still ringing in my ears!

May Egypt, the cradle of ancient civilization, attract more and more visitors! As for me, I wish to visit Egypt again to climb Mount Sinai and see other exotic locations.

Note from the Editor It took the Editor a few seconds to decide to publish this opinion in its entirety along with the photos! A big thank you to Mr. Mariadas Susaiappan. The Truly Love Egypt team would love to see you in Egypt soon and we would like to dedicate the song in this issue to the people of the beautiful country of India.

Mariadas Susaiappan, Mumbai, India 31

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