Muna Salloum Books

In the celestial realm of Paradise, the atmosphere has grown somber. Nightly discussions among Arab scholars, spanning from the classical to the medieval periods and even the present day, have reached an impasse. Conversations aimed at finding solutions for the earthly world below seem increasingly futile, as if history's lessons have been forgotten or ignored. The vibrant mood once prevalent in Paradise has given way to listlessness and gloom. But what if the key to reigniting joy and inspiration lies in an age-old universal tradition: sharing a meal? That's right, a food contest! Celestial Dining to Entice: An Arab Food Contest in Paradise aims to shift the narrative from despair to delight. Scholars present their chosen medieval Arab dishes, each accompanied by personal stories that reveal who they are and why they've selected their dish. The contest does more than just brighten the atmosphere; it serves as a poignant reminder that history may have its lessons, but food possesses the timeless power to unite and uplift. Experience a celestial gathering where heavenly flavours meet earthly concerns, and discover how even in Paradise, the simple joy of sharing a meal can transform the spirit.

Exploring the rich history of traditional Arab sweets, this book offers a culinary journey through Iraq, Syria, Egypt, and al-Andalus. It features easy-to-follow recipes inspired by medieval Arabic texts, showcasing opulent desserts that highlight ingredients like saffron, rose water, honey, and figs. The authors blend cultural anecdotes and historical context, revealing the evolution of these delicacies from the tenth to fourteenth centuries. Each recipe is accompanied by medieval poems and stories, making it both a cookbook and a captivating narrative of culinary heritage.

From ancient Baghdad, recipes for, and the stories behind, exotic and unusual treats. Centuries have passed since the time of the The 1001 Arabian Nights, but those classic tales, with their romance, passion, and vibrancy, continue to inspire and ignite imaginations . Within Scheherazade’s brilliant stories for her husband, King Shahryar, we learn of the vibrant life of Baghdad, Damascus, and Cairo in the 9th century as well as of certain key persons and how they functioned in society. Food—sweets, specifically—plays an important part in The 1001 Arabian Nights; it is currency, temptation, sustenance. Delicious sweets are the link between that historical work and this modern one. The Sweets of Araby offers us exotic treats and the translated tales they come from. Sisters Leila Salloum Elias and Muna Salloum worked with the ancient Arabic text of The 1001 Arabian Nights to find recipes and translate their stories, literally bringing back to life evocative stories with recipes transformed to suit modern kitchens and tastes. Beautifully illustrated with original paintings by Linda Dalal Sawaya, this delectable treasure belongs in every 21st-century kitchen.