Chef Samin Nosrat discusses her culinary journey from childhood memories in her mother's kitchen to a transformative trip to Iran. She reflects on the impact of family traditions, immigrant influences, and the pursuit of flavor. The podcast also covers her experiences in the restaurant industry, finding belonging, and reconnecting with her Persian roots through food memories.
Samin Nosrat's childhood memories in her mother's Iranian kitchen shaped her culinary identity.
Her affinity for acidity in cooking reflects a deep connection to her Iranian heritage.
Deep dives
Exploring the Influence of Childhood on Culinary Traditions
Samin Nosrat shares her journey from her mother's Iranian kitchen, where her love for cooking was nurtured. Her childhood memories of aromatic Persian breakfasts and homemade meals shaped her culinary identity. Samin revisits a special trip to Iran with her mother, sparking a newfound appreciation for her cultural roots through food.
Epiphanies in Food and Life
Samin's culinary philosophy evolves with pivotal experiences, like a transformative meal at a fancy restaurant in Berkeley. Her journey from pursuing writing to becoming a chef unfolds with enriching encounters and mentorships. Samin's path intertwines with her cultural heritage, infusing her cooking with Persian flavors and storytelling.
Rediscovering Family Traditions Through Cooking
Crafting golden chicken soup becomes a symbolic bridge to Samin's childhood flavors. Her modern take on traditional recipes reflects a fusion of cultural influences and personal growth. Samin's journey in the kitchen echoes her quest for identity, blending past memories with present creativity.
Embracing Acidic Palates and Cultural Connections
Samin's affinity for acidity in her cooking mirrors her Iranian heritage's culinary preferences. Her acidic palate reveals a deep-seated connection to her roots, emphasizing flavors like lemon, saffron, and cardamom. Through her kitchen explorations, Samin uncovers a profound link between taste memories and cultural identity.
Michele joins chef Samin Nosrat, author of the New York Times bestseller Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking, to tell stories of Nosrat’s mother’s kitchen, who and what else shaped her as she grew up, and a very special trip Nosrat took to her native Iran when she was just a kid.
Samin Nosrat is a San Diego-born, Oakland-based chef, writer, and teacher. Netflix’s documentary series Salt Fat Acid Heat, based on her book, was released in 2018. She has also starred in Netflix’s children’s cooking series Waffles + Mochi (produced by Higher Ground Productions), and co-hosted the podcast Home Cooking with Hrishikesh Hirway.
Nosrat began her cooking career at Alice Waters’ acclaimed Berkeley restaurant Chez Panisse. She went on to work in Italy alongside chefs Benedetta Vitali and Dario Cecchini, and at (the now-closed) Eccolo in Berkeley.