Ramzi Choueiry - The Arabian Cookbook: Traditional Arab Cuisine with a Modern Twist

Thank you to the Al-Kafaat Catering School Thanks for letting us borrow props, Mateus Stock, and Agneta Livijn Copyright 2011, 2012 by Chef Ramzi
Photo Copyright 2011, 2012 by Bruno Ehrs
Originally published by ICA bokfrlag, Forma Books AB
Translated by Monika Romare All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner without the express written consent of the publisher, except in the case of brief excerpts in critical reviews or articles. All inquiries should be addressed to Skyhorse Publishing, 307 West 36th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10018. Skyhorse Publishing books may be purchased in bulk at special discounts for sales promotion, corporate gifts, fund-raising, or educational purposes. Special editions can also be created to specifications. www.skyhorsepublishing.com 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available on file. www.skyhorsepublishing.com 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available on file.

ISBN: 978-1-62087-048-8 eISBN: 978-1-62087-747-0 Printed in China TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Lebanese people have lived among many of the great civilizations within their borders: Greeks, Byzantines, Romans, Phoenicians, Turks, and the French. All of them have left a mark of their presence. And the Lebanese people have welcomed and respected all kinds of political and religious groups in their lush land. Despite all of these powerful influences, the Lebanese kitchen has remained very traditional. On television, whenever I try to cook a fusion of Lebanese cuisine with other international cuisine, the reaction is always immediate. People do not like it! Viewers will call the studio and complain: Make spaghetti or lasagna, but do not mix it with Lebanese food! The viewers want to know all the secrets behind authentic Lebanese food.

However, my television audience also wants to learn about other food cultures. When you are aware of your own traditions and history, you may have an easier time understanding and respecting other cultures. Today, Arabic food, particularly Lebanese cuisine, has spread all over the world thanks to all the travelers that have stopped by. People meet up and enjoy a nice meal together. Eating together and sharing different food cultures could perhaps build bridges between the people of the world. My dear father has taught me: You own what you give what you do not give, owns you.

I give to you my culinary heritage.