Famed Arabic cuisine
Suzanne Husseini, a UAE-based TV chef and cookbook author, takes time out from her latest book signing tour to chat to Caterer Middle East about what Arabic cuisine means to her
What does ‘Arabic cuisine’ conjure up?
Arabic cuisine is a tapestry of flavours woven by a sophisticated food culture that encompasses the Eastern Mediterranean, North Africa and the Middle East. It is a feast of exotic tastes, scents of citrus, vibrant herbs, hints of saffron, glistening red pomegranates and the enchanting aroma of rose water.
Why aren't there more Arabic chefs here - and how do you think we should remedy it?
More Arabic chefs should get more innovative with their cuisine. A lot of international hotels here go out of their way to find popular chefs from abroad. They may be good at what they do, but their cuisine becomes quite redundant as all the restaurants in hotels serve up more and more of the same.
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What's your 'top tip' for a simple, authentically Arabic recipe?
One of my favourite easy-to-prepare traditional recipes would be mousaq'aa; the name means and implies that it's to be eaten cold. It's basically grilled aubergines, layered between generous amounts of a fresh garlic and onion-infused tomato sauce, thickened with chickpeas. The sweet aubergine complemented by the freshness and acidity of the tomatoes is a divine combination!
Meet the supplier
Buffet displays are a popular way of serving up Arabic cuisine.
One supplier, targeting Arabic restaurants with its range of buffetware, perfect for iftars, is Pilsa Middle East. Caterer speaks to Fernando Moreno Muñoz, Middle East general manager.
On the company...
“The main activity of Pilsa Middle East is not only to manufacture exceptional kitchen equipment, but also bring decades of experience as consultants and designers for the food-service equipment industry.
From conceptual design, to MEP floor plans – we cover all aspects of commercial kitchens, cold rooms and buffet counters.”
On the competition...
“It is always very difficult to compete in any market, but together with our partner in the Middle East we are ready to continue the introduction of our services and products in the MENA region.”
On the top sellers...
“Some of our most popular items are our custom-made buffet counters that enjoy a big success in all hotel establishments, as they make it possible to display a wide variety of items.”
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