Being Franco-Singaporean, I was raised on the best two cuisines in the world, and would be hard pressed to declare Congo a center of culinary delights. But I fully agree with this blog’s proposition: food in far-flung places takes on a special flavor! I have visited the Democratic Republic of Congo frequently since 2002, and […]
Marrow Vine Leaves and Pistachio Cream Pancakes in Northern Iraq
In this part of the world, restaurants tend to sling the same grub (kebab, mezze, biryani, baklava) — and what sets one place apart from another is the quality of ingredients and, when I get lucky, the existence of dishes I’ve never seen before. Green Jews Mallow in Egypt. Hot cheesy hummus in Turkey. And at Al Safadi, […]
Modern Meatballs and Delicious Dumplings in Istanbul
You can eat very, very well in Istanbul. Even with zero language skills, the point-and-nod method can get you amazing kebabs, shwarma, roast chestnuts, the donut-shaped pastry known as simit, and enough baklava to put you in a honey coma. And the street food scene has excellent company with a handful of modern restaurants serving […]
Feast in the Iraqi Plains
“Sit, sit, eat. No more photos!” When men with in uniforms tell you things, it’s generally wise to do them. Being ordered to lay down my heavy television camera for lunch was an order I was more than happy to comply with. Along potted, rutted and congested roads, we traveled 2 hours northwest of Erbil, […]
Hidden Gems in Cairo: Green Jews Mallow, Chicken Balls and More!
Egypt is known for many things – the birthplace of civilization, early forms of communication, inventing board games! – but sadly, culinary prowess is not among them. Bread, beans, rice, and meat abound. Koshari, a gut bomb of rice, lentils, and pasta, is considered by some to be its national dish… street food of the highest […]