Tarwida Food is Political | Fadi Kattan
12 snips
Apr 28, 2025 
Join renowned chef Fadi Kattan, a passionate advocate for Palestinian cuisine and author of 'Bethlehem.' He shares his rich culinary heritage, inspired by family traditions and his Teta's kitchen. Fadi discusses the significance of local ingredients and the challenges of preserving culinary identity amid political struggles. He explores the blend of tradition and innovation in his restaurants and emphasizes the power of food activism in celebrating Palestinian culture. Fadi’s journey highlights the emotional connections we have with food and the importance of community and storytelling.
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Roots in Family Kitchens
- Fadi Kattan's culinary journey began in his grandmother's kitchen and continues in his mother's kitchen.
- His early memories include rich flavors like fried eggs in ghee sprinkled with sumac, shaping his cooking style.
Protecting Culinary Origins
- The French AOC system inspired Fadi to protect and showcase Palestinian cuisine's unique origins.
- He realized Palestinian food was often misrepresented, pushing him to focus on authentic Palestinian produce and recipes.
From Podcast to Teta's Kitchen
- During COVID, Fadi launched a podcast with daily episodes despite no prior experience.
- Later, on Teta's Kitchen, he cooked with grandmothers across Palestine, preserving recipes and stories even remotely.
