Yes, traditional Egyptian bread, known as $Aish \text{ Baladi}$, contains gluten.
$Aish \text{ Baladi}$ (عيش بلدي) is typically made from whole wheat flour, which is a primary source of gluten.1
Key Points:
- Whole Wheat: The most common 2$Aish \text{ Baladi}$ uses whole grain wheat flour, sometimes mixed with a small amount of corn or other grains, but wheat is the main ingredient.3
- Gluten Content: Since wheat is the base, the bread contains gluten and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Other Breads: Other common Egyptian breads, like $Aish \text{ Fino}$ (similar to a French baguette) and $Aish \text{ Shamsi}$ (a sourdough-like bread from Upper Egypt), are also made primarily with wheat flour and contain gluten.
If you are following a gluten-free diet, you must specifically seek out bread labeled as gluten-free or opt for naturally gluten-free foods like rice, corn, or legumes.