Exploring Omani & Zanzibari Food With Chef & Cookbook Author Dina Macki

Exploring Omani & Zanzibari Food With Chef & Cookbook Author Dina Macki

From Matbakh | Food of the Arab World by afikra

July 18, 2025 · 49 min · Episode 41

About this episode

Dina Macki discusses the culinary traditions and flavors of Omani and Zanzibari cuisines, along with her cultural heritage and the influence of various cultures on the region's food.

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.

People in this episode

Guest: Dina Macki

Topics covered

  • Omani cuisine
  • Zanzibari cuisine
  • culinary traditions
  • cultural heritage
  • spices and ingredients
  • food influences
  • traditional recipes

Keywords

  • Omani food
  • Zanzibari food
  • cooking
  • spices
  • cultural influences
  • traditional recipes
  • cookbook

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Bahari: Recipes From an Omani Kitchen and Beyond

Places: Oman, Zanzibar, Pakistan, Iran, India, Swahili, Portugal

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