A Culinary Journey of Unity: The MWWA Annual Ramadan Iftar 2023
Celebrating Diversity Through the Art of Dessert
In the spirit of Ramadan, a time of reflection, community, and profound spirituality, I was deeply honoured to be invited as a guest chef at the Muslim Women’s Welfare of Australia’s (MWWA) annual Iftar in 2023. This occasion was not just an event; it was a testament to the power of food in uniting hearts and souls across diverse backgrounds.
The evening was nothing short of magical. As I took the stage, surrounded by an atmosphere charged with anticipation and joy, I was reminded of why I cherish cooking: it’s an opportunity to share, teach, and demonstrate that food is much more than mere sustenance. It’s a bridge that connects us, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.
The dish I chose to share was Ghazlieh, a sumptuous Lebanese milk pudding, which I believe embodies the essence of shared joy and cultural richness. Topped with caramelised biscuits for a delightful crunch, pistachios that add depth and texture and fairy floss that melts in your mouth, Ghazlieh was my homage to the culinary traditions that bind us.
What made the night truly unforgettable was the interaction with the audience. The passion for culinary arts and the eagerness to learn more about the dishes we share brought the room to life. Answering questions from the audience, I felt a profound connection with every person in the hall, each of us united by our love for food and the stories it tells.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the moment the audience, driven by curiosity and excitement, came forward to taste the Ghazlieh. The feedback was overwhelmingly beautiful, a chorus of appreciation and culinary curiosity that filled the hall, echoing off its walls adorned with the faces of amazing ladies from various nationalities.
This experience at the MWWA annual Ramadan Iftar was a vivid reminder of the universal language of food and its capacity to bring us all together, creating a mosaic of cultures and histories around a single table. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of such an inspiring evening, to share a piece of my heritage, and to witness the unifying power of culinary art.
As we move forward in our lives, let us carry with us the insights from this unforgettable evening: that food is a powerful medium for fostering unity and celebrating the rich tapestry of human culture. The delightful taste of Ghazlieh, enjoyed during the MWWA annual Ramadan Iftar 2023, serves as a lasting symbol of how culinary traditions can connect us, highlighting the splendour found in our diverse backgrounds and stories.