In this episode of Matbakh, we're joined by Dina Macki, author of cookbook "Bahari: Recipes From an Omani Kitchen and Beyond," who shares insights into the unique flavors and culinary traditions of Omani and Zanzibari cuisines. Dina discusses her cultural heritage and diverse upbringing, and the intricate blend of spices and ingredients that define the dishes of Oman and Zanzibar. She dives into the influence of various cultures – including Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Swahili, and Portuguese – on the region's food, and how it transcends national borders. She also talks about the challenges of preserving traditional recipes, and offers her recommendations for must-try dishes for anyone interested in exploring the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of this particular geography.

00:00 Introduction 

00:19 Exploring Omani Cuisine

02:57 Cultural Identity and Background

04:43 Food Influences and Personal Journey

07:50 Dina's Culinary Path

12:06 Historical and Cultural Insights

24:58 Reviving Swahili Influence

25:20 Experiences in Zanzibar

26:54 Classic Dishes from the Book

29:29 Traditional Drinks and Variations

30:01 Unique Eid Dishes

32:30 Coconut in Omani Cuisine

38:02 Running Farsha: A Culinary Venture in Muscat

40:27 Omani Food Culture and Traditions

42:09 Guilty Pleasures and Essential Ingredients

47:49 Travel Recommendations for Oman

Dina Macki is a British-Omani food writer, presenter, and recipe developer with a strong focus on her Omani and Zanzibari heritage, as well as influences from the wider Middle East, East Africa, and her upbringing in the UK. She is known for exploring the unique foodscape of Oman and sharing personal recipes and stories, often bringing a fresh perspective on how food connects us to our past and communities. Her debut cookbook, "Bahari: Recipes From an Omani Kitchen and Beyond," showcases the rich flavors and history of Omani cuisine, which is shaped by its coastlines and maritime history with origins and influences spanning Pakistan, Iran, India, the Swahili coast, and Portugal. Dina works with various brands for recipe development and presentations. She also works for The Anglo-Omani Society.

Connect with Dina Macki 👉 https://instagram.com/dinewithdina

Hosted by Mikey Muhanna

Connect directly with Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://instagram.com/mikey_mu

Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊 https://spoti.fi/47I59ns

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» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/matbakh/id1646402301
» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4GuszMVmvx0XM2zYLmVQK2
» Anghami: https://www.anghami.com/podcast/1035528225

THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK
Explore all episodes in this series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl48-5Y0F7sx2xoexSoeBUWJ&feature=shared

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