Culture Bites: Palestinian-Jordanian chef Salam Dakkak gets to the heart of Levantine cuisine

Chef Salam discusses the inspiration from her mother for her restaurant's dishes.

She mentions that her mother's food is better than her own, but the dishes served are similar.

Chef describes a traditional dish made with spinach (M) that includes small pieces of meat and chicken, cooked with olive oil.

She explains the seasonal availability of M, which is harvested between late June and early September.

Chef shares how they dry the M in the sun for preservation, as freezers were not available at that time.

She describes the preparation of the dish, which includes garlic, olive oil, and lemon, and emphasizes its comfort food quality.

Chef Salam mentions that customers enjoy various dishes, particularly the mixed grill and hummus, as well as the daily specials offered.

She talks about the concept of SRA, a communal dining table where families gather to eat and share food.

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Dietary

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