Showing posts with label food. Show all posts
Showing posts with label food. Show all posts

February 29, 2016

Abundance ~ A Cookbook by AUB Alumni & Friends



Letter from 
Wafa Saab - President, WAAAUB
"For over a year now 45 alumni of the American University of Beirut residing in different countries across the world have been working together to assemble a cookbook on Mediterranean cuisine. What makes this cookbook special is that, in addition to the health and dietary benefits, it includes snippets of memories associated with the tastes and smells of the foods.
Who among us does not remember the aroma of a favorite dish their mother prepared? Or the warm fragrance of grandmother’s soup in winter?
The Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Alumni Chapter has deemed these tastes, smells and memories too precious. They have mobilized the culinary talents of 45 alumni world-wide and put together this sumptuous collection of recipes.
And what better occasion to launch such a creative endeavour than the 150th Anniversary of the university we are all celebrating. This is yet another activity that links our history to the future generations that will experience the abundance of being a part of AUB’s life-changing experience.
A case in point is that the cookbook contributors were not previously acquainted. Their main common denominator was their history at the American University of Beirut. It was that connection that they employed when reaching out to over 150 others who submitted more than 200 recipes.
AUB was the connection that bound them together as they cooked, tested, tasted, sampled, wrote, rewrote, edited, styled, arranged and photographed the various dishes. In the midst of all of this, they shared treasured memories of their years at AUB, discovered lost friendships and updated one another on life events.
The volunteers who produced this collection of recipes used their educational and professional backgrounds, their qualifications and their know-how to contribute to the sections on health, lifestyle, and benefits of the Mediterranean cuisine—including substitutions for dietary limitations, and a glossary of terms, techniques, herbs and spices.
I would like to take this opportunity to, not only thank the volunteers who made this work possible, but to point out the enduring connection to our Alma Mater, which continues to bring us together on projects and endeavours of such a diverse and intrepid nature.
Please take time to click on this link and see a preview of this beautiful publication:http://www.alumniconnections.com/olc/filelib/AVB/cpages/44/Library/WAAAUB%20cookbook%20FINAL%20PREVIEW-DEC15.pdf
You may also pre-order your copy of Abundance by going to this link:http://www.alumniconnections.com/olc/pub/AVB/cpages/news.jsp?chapter=44
It is truly inspirational to see our worldwide alumni engaging with each other, with their chapters and with AUB. Our strength continues to lie in your sustained engagement and your contributions to our beloved Alma Mater. "
 

January 5, 2015

AUB Alumni Launching Mediterranean Cuisine Cookbook


A cookbook that can be treasured and enjoyed for years....

To join in the commemoration of American University of Beirut’s 150th anniversary in 2016, the WAAAUB (World Alumni Association of AUB) Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter is sponsoring the compilation of a WAAAUB Mediterranean Cuisine Cookbook. "cookbook that can be treasured and enjoyed for years."
This project will showcase the leadership, expertise, energy and commitment of AUB Alumni globally!

I am really excited for this cookbook as I am an AUB Alumni and I will be on the committee for content editing!

All AUB Alumni and friends may contribute recipes; colored photos are highly encouraged.
Recipe contributors have to include their name, city and state/country for publication. Along with a short introduction, age-old wisdom, or personal story behind the recipe.

Recipe submission begins ~ mid-January 2015.

For more info: http://www.alumniconnections.com/olc/pub/AVB/cpages/news.jsp?chapter=44

October 1, 2014

Yokari : Affinity between Modern & Traditional Japanese Cuisine


Photo:

Yokari..
.in Japanese means 'Affinity' .... this cultural affinity that brings together the historic Japan and modern Japan.. Perhaps that's why Yokari was named as such.
As it is clearly reflected in the meals served,  there is a lot of affinity in the type of cuisine offered.  You can taste the modern western flavors infused together with the Japanese traditional ones. Expect names of plates you have never heard of, but with some familiar ingredients like Mayonnaise, eggplant and tomate! Expect to be enthralled by an experience that will touch all your senses...because you really don't know what to expect.


Ebi Karaage  spicy dried fried shrimp!

September 7, 2014

The Sizzling Skillet Experience at AppleBee's

The best thing about cooking in home is hearing this sizzling sound of the ingredients getting infused together, under the heat of the fire... As if they are dancing in a rhythm so strong and fierce, yet so amusing and so folklorish.

When you are in a restaurant, you are are able to watch your food cooked "live" ..But can you really hear it? Hear this dance? Hear this sizzling effect?

Last week, I was in Apple bee's and they launched some exclusive and new menu items called : " The Sizzlers". All served on a 400C Creole-style skillet .
Good chance that I was able to try them before October . Luckily, the sizzling desserts are staying on the menu though!
Sizzling Steak

Sizzling Desserts (Video)


August 30, 2014

Vapiano : An Innovative Pasta & Pizza Concept from Germany in Riyadh



Chi va piano va sano e va lontano

“Chi va piano, va sano e va lontano” the Italian proverb which means “If you have an easy-going and relaxed approach to life, you’ll live more healthily and longer”.  
It is true for some point. If we approach the things we love like family, friends, and food, we will truly enjoy our lives happily, and this could make us survive a little bit longer than being sad or near things that makes us sad.

I learnt this proverb during my visit to Vapiono, Riyadh (KSA) this Thursday. And this is exactly the attitude that Vapiano wants to deliver to their Vapianistis (Guests &employees) during their dining in experience!

Live Pasta Making فابيانو 

The ambience & vibrant decor makes you feel like you are eating at home.
I always tell my readers that I don't like to judge a restaurant by one visit. And this was my third visit to Vapiano. My first try was in August 2012 and my next visit was May 2013. And this was the third time where I got to be invited to there.
The restaurant has greatly improved since the last time I was there. From management and staff dedication, to the quality of service and food.

The pasta display on the entrance, the big black wooden board, and the fresh pasta making & cooking stations is what got me attracted to Vapiano when I came to Riyadh city. You can rarely find this mood, ambience, , eating experience and high quality in one place!

It really defines the future of fresh, casual dining, as this European chain exhibits a vibrant atmosphere, innovative restaurant technology and delicious and affordable menu! And If I wanted to sum up my food experience at Vapiano in 3 words I’d say this “Interactive, Fresh,  & Simple ”.


( For a quick view of my whole experience, check out my slideshow)

July 12, 2014

GulFood Manufacturing Show: Addressing Region's Food Issues

Region’s biggest-ever trade show launch to highlight food logistics, processing, packaging and ingredients sectors

sector propack1


Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Gulfood Manufacturing
Conceived to capitalise on unprecedented market demand for the region’s manufacturing, processing, packaging and ingredients sectors, Gulfood Manufacturing 2014 – being held 9-11 November at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) – has officially sold out.

Amid steady domestic and regional growth in the food manufacturing and processing industry, the sector-specific spin-off of Gulfood – the world’s largest annual food and hospitality trade platform – will debut as the Middle East, Africa and South East Asia’s (MEASA) biggest-ever trade show launch. With a host of global food manufacturers, suppliers and service providers requesting exhibition space, organiser DWTC is adding new halls to cater for intense international demand

June 26, 2014

Pearl as a Guest Speaker at SkillPills



Last Wednesday, I had the chance to talk about my food blogging 6 years experience on Skillpills to a group of people who want to set up a new blog!

SkillPills is a series of workshop, taking place in Altcity in Hamra /Beirut,  where one can learn a new skill in three hours or less!

Last week's SkillPill Event : How to Set Up a BLOG for your business:

The workshop started with  Ziad Alameh, a techpreneur with a love for tech startups. CTO and Co-founder of Pikaside ,  x-Zoomaalian and a computer scientist.

Ziad gave the first the "technical part" of setting up a blog and preparing the template:
His talk mainly covered:

  • Setting up a blog from zero
  • Customizing the blog to your business
  • Putting it online
  • Analytics: number of visitors and viewers
  • How to draw more traffic to your blog

June 14, 2014

FOUR: World's Top Haute Cuisine Magazine





By unifying over 300 of the world’s best chefs, such as Thomas Keller, Heston Blumenthal, Yannick Alléno, Massimo Bottura and René Redzepi, FOUR brings together the brilliant ideas of the greatest minds in haute cuisine.
four international PR image

FOUR - The World’s Best Food Magazine, offers a lifestyle twist that is a must-read for the high net worth individual. 

Maybe not everyone of us can actually eat (whether travel or afford eating) at such haute cuisine restaurants, but reading this magazine will bring a world of inspiration and enthusiasm to us, especially if we are food lovers and avid connoisseurs.

June 5, 2014

Fauchon Riyadh: A Unique Experience


The world of Fauchon had always been known in the world of luxury. It is not merely a gourmet food boutique. It is a place where your senses can experience the upgrade in food from desserts, pastries,
Fauchon is an old school since 1880 where the first boutique opened in Paris.. It's an iconic landmark in gastronomy.
So it's opening in Riyadh brought me a little sense of joy because hopefully I wanted to experience this gourmet touch, something that lacks deeply in the market of Saudi Arabia.

June 2, 2014

Em Sherif : A Jewel in Beirut

It is been a long time since I blogged. Working in the Food & beverage industry, makes you want to be more delicate while posting about your food adventures.
You would appreciate the brands more, the work behind them, the staff in the restaurant. And mostly the food recipes that were developed extensively to get this perfect taste.
You would feel more the pain, the hectic suffering each day to bring the customers the most delicate food experience. And that's why I was delaying many posts!


One of the brand that I fell in love with in my last visit to Beirut was Em Sherif.
It is a place that combines both simplicity and sophistication.

For the Lebanese Readers: In a world of discrepancies, Em Sherif is the place for someone to enjoy his outing. It is all: an entertainment place, a luxury place, and of coarse a place to satisfy the hunger. A hunger for good food, delicate music/ambience, and a relaxed pampering.

For the non-Lebanese, this restaurant will give you the true authentic taste of lebanese and oriental food in a palace like setting!

May 14, 2014

Chef Joe Barza at The Globe




Fine Dining in Riyadh is a rare thing to find. Only few places in this boring city offer an exciting and new experience for food connoisseurs. 

The signature restaurant of Faisaliyah hotel, The Globe, is unique among Riyadh restaurants. Encapsulated in the stunning golden geodesic orb that tops Al Faisaliah Tower. Sitting there you can enjoy a unique perspective of Riyadh city panoramic landscape, thus creating an unmatched saudi arabian fine dining experience.
I had a business dinner at the second “Globe Summit Series 2014” in April.
It was a very luxurious setting coupled with the art of Lebanese cuisine done by world renowned Chef Joe Barza.
Barza prepared several personal dishes from his select menu. Though we asked to meet the chef, the chef left and were not able to see the live cooking demonstration that the event planners promised us that he will come.

March 2, 2014

Elevation Burger


When you enter Elevation Burger, you will read about its particular vision is to be much more than just a burger restaurant. Their aim is to provide an "elevated  burger" that is fresh and flavorful, made of the highest quality and sustainable ingredients. Elevation Ventures are located in Gulf countries (Riyadh, Doha, Kuwait, Dubai, Oman, Manama) and across 12 states in USA since 2003.

February 28, 2014

Homemade Chocolate Lazy Cake, Straight from the Freezer


A heat wave that hit Riyadh city in the past few days....after months of constant cold -actually freezing- weather.
And since the winter season also ended in Lebanon (Who knew that this year the weather would be that weird? ), So nothing is better than starting the spring/summer season but having this lazy cake, served straight from the freezer.

Well, I honestly don't know why lazy cakes are cakes. They dont even contain eggs or flour, the two major ingredients to bake a cake. It is obviously a No Bake Cake!
So, I'd rather call my lazy cake as chocolate bars or biscuits. Homemade Kitkat might also be another name.

The taste is inspired from my favorite chocolate bar: Lindt Orange chocolate.

Here is a quick recipe:

January 26, 2014

Zesty Cake Homemade Recipe

Zesty Cake: lactose free, & light...
Enjoy a lemon citrus overwhelming flavor coming out from the oven as you bake this cake!
To start with, don't do this recipe unless you are one of the below:
  • Chocolate Hater. or not in the mood for chocolate, as not a pinch of chocolate was used in this recipe. (sorry chocolate lovers)
  • Lactose Intolerant: Not a drop of milk was added.
  • Light Dessert Seeker: Sugar was reduced to half as in any regular cake recipes.
  • Spongy Cake Avoider: I have a thing against spongy cakes, I sometimes feel I am literally swallowing air. I just dont like the sponginess. Yet, this cake turned out to be truely condensed & bit chewy from inside, and soft at the same time.
  • Lemon/ Citrus Lover: Who doesnt love the taste of lemon in desserts? Come on....Lemon, vanilla & sugar go together like trio best friends !

Since I previously posted about my lactose/dairy intolerance and my constant ways in including recipes without milk, and at the same time without jeopardizing the taste and affecting texture of the food
prepared. Here is the lemon cake that I made at home and from scratch!

January 22, 2014

All the Smells of Home



كعكة
A True Lebanese Speciality: Kaakeh كعكة عصرونية  Brings me all the Childhood Memories




"I want to conjure up all the smells of my home, lock them in a bottle, then take them with me wherever I go."

They say everybody has to leave their home for once in their life and come back so they can love it all over again for many reasons, new or old. Well, I want to come back to it, mainly because of all the smells I crave for smelling again. Label me a weird smell addict, which I truly am, considering my master’s concentration was in the sensory of food, including taste and smell.

December 21, 2013

A Superfood Breakfast: Goji Berries with Warm Quinoa

Guest Post from Christele - Nutritionist & Blogger at Health 'n' Horizons

Hello everyone! My name is Christele, I’m a nutritionist, a mom, a lover of real food, and a blogger over at Health ‘n’ Horizons! I am so excited to be guest posting for Pearl's Powder today. Hope you all like some real satisfying food for breakfast cause I’ll be discussing superfoods, particularly goji berries.
I will also be sharing a warm breakfast recipe for those cold winter mornings (and if you live in a warm climate, don’t worry, a cold version* is as good, if not better).


What are Superfoods?
Goji berries are what some may consider a superfood.

December 17, 2013

The Camel Burger: Humps or no Humps?


Anyone up for camel meat?  You bored from chicken or beef?

I am sure Burger lovers who are always searching for the "perfect burger" would include this burger in their endeavour!

The Arabic restaurant Local House in UAE slid this camel patty into the hollow pocket of a khameer, traditional, pita-shaped leavened bread studded with sesame seeds, as a response for local demand for camel meat.

Sharing this picture from a friend who tried the " Camel Burger" in Dubai, UAE....
hmm anyone tried it? What do you think about the taste?

Courtesy of Hussein Dajani, Dubai

December 4, 2013

Cooked with Delicious and Good Intentions

We, the millennials, the tech savvys and social media addicts, are a nation of aspiring cooks! At least that's what most of us write on our Twitter bios, share on Pinterest boards, and post as Instagram photos, yet-honestly-we barely have time for cooking daily... Nevertheless, most of us rely on social media to choose food, whether through restaurants' reviews, recipe's blogs, or friends' comments about products. But our social media profiles can go beyond just sharing individual food photos, recipes and reviews. Social media has been rising as a crucial aspect in the communication between consumers and the food brands on one hand, and between consumers and health care practitioners on the other... 
How do food companies and food experts deal with social media?Well, that is what I explored and wrote about in Cloud961 issue number 5.


Download full issue here

November 29, 2013

Five years of Blogging on Pearl's Powder!

On this day exactly November 29, 2008, I started my official blogging!
My story of blogging started because I simply wanted to share my thoughts, and sprinkle these powder of thoughts to the world around me. (Read more About my story of blogging)

While social media back in 2008 was still taking its baby steps especially in our region (MENA), I was trying all efforts to reach as much as I can in terms of readership and promotion..

Yes, I do admit that perhaps my number of frequent readers was and still a little number. But these readers, friends, and online supports, are the ones who supported me all through my 5 years blogging experience, they are the ones who "commented, shared, retweeted, liked" my posts. And for this number, I owe all my humble reach and perhaps success.

November 28, 2013

Favorite Food Books

Starting this week, I will be introducing my favorite food book of the month.
I have already read a collection of food books, yet never reviewed or talked about them.

If you have a favorite food book, please do recommend it here!
For now, my collection will be updated on My GoodRead.com Food Shelf!
The collection features book ranging from food history, food stories, food science and technologies, as well as culinary books (recipes)



Loulwa's food book

Catching fire: How Cooking Made Us Human
The Crisis of Food Brands: Sustaining Safe, Innovative and Competitive Food Supply
Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health
Pet Food Politics: The Chihuahua in the Coal Mine
Safe Food: Bacteria, Biotechnology, and Bioterrorism
The Untold Story of Milk: Green Pastures, Contented Cows and Raw Dairy Products
The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals
In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto
Second Nature: A Gardener's Education
Food in Jars: Preserving in Small Batches Year-Round
Food Product Development: Maximising Success
The Nasty Bits: Collected Varietal Cuts, Usable Trim, Scraps, and Bones
The Book of Tea
Perpetual Harvest: What to Plant and Enjoy, Month by Month
The Geometry of Pasta


Loulwa's favorite books »