Ah'len Cookbook

This Gourmand International "Best in the World" award winning cookbook is a publication by the Syrian Lebanese Women's Association of Trinidad and Tobago, and features delicious family recipes that, in the Arab tradition of cooking, have been handed down from mothers to daughters through the generations. "Food and family form the nexus of our culture; we believe that a meal prepared is only half the pleasure of a meal shared." Middle Eastern hospitality is well known and you cannot refuse to eat in a Syrian or Lebanese home without incurring the wrath of somebody's Tita (Grandmother). "We use food to say 'hello', 'goodbye', 'congratulations' and even 'I'm sorry'." Food is used to express generosity and love and you will find it in abundance at Middle Eastern weddings, funerals, Christenings, graduations and we just-decided-to-cook-because-we-love-it functions. For many years the members of the Syrian Lebanese Women's Association of Trinidad and Tobago have been asked to give cooking classes and to write a cookbook. After investing a great deal of time, the Association has gathered together the very best ways of making Arabic food in Trinidad. This recipe book is a history book spanning the migration of a people from the Middle East to the Caribbean. It is a collection of stories told and stories lived, and it is an insight into growing up Syrian and Lebanese in Trinidad and Tobago. "Our grandmothers and mothers have invited you into their kitchens, as they kneaded and baked, rolled and stuffed, and in doing so have shared their culture and welcomed you as family. So, to all who will try our recipes ... welcome to a culinary adventure! May you find much joy on your journey." 'Sufra daimeh!' May your table always be full! Ah'len! - Welcome