Chef and Author Imane Alaoui shares the stories of Morocco at the Sharjah Book Fair, with this year’s theme ‘A Culinary Journey Through Culture and Connection’ delighting all who love spicy fables and tables.
Imane Alaoui, author of Flavors of Morocco Transcended, will attend the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair, running from November 6 to 17, 2024.
Reflecting on her culinary roots, Alaoui says that Moroccan souks have deeply informed her palette and approach to cooking.
“Born in the vibrant city of Rabat, Morocco, I spent the first 23 years of my life immersed in the rich Moroccan culture and its cuisine. The bustling markets of Morocco, the scent of spices, and the warmth of its people shaped my early culinary experiences,” says Alaoui.
These experiences also influenced Alaoui’s approach to storytelling, which she brings to life in her recently published cookbook, Flavors of Morocco Transcended.
Alaoui’s culinary journey later took her to France, where her culinary exploration expanded.
“I continued my studies in France and it was here that my passion for reinventing cuisines and merging diverse flavours began,” says Alaoui.
Alaoui’s book blends Moroccan flavours with contemporary culinary techniques and a love of intertwining history and culture in every recipe.
“My book I is a journey through Morocco’s diverse landscape, from bustling markets to coastal fishing villages. Every recipe is a story. Moroccan cuisine is full of flavours and textures, and each dish represents a part of our history and culture,” says Alaoui.
Her cookbook offers a collection of recipes ranging from quick dishes to special occasions, encouraging readers to introduce Moroccan flavours into their daily lives.
For Alaoui, food holds significance beyond taste, serving as a bridge between cultures.
“Food is more than just sustenance for me. It’s a way of sharing culture, a way to bring people together,. I want to make Moroccan cuisine accessible and to celebrate the cultural heritage behind each dish,” says Alaoui.
The Sharjah International Book Fair is expected to draw over 2,500 publishers from 112 countries and feature 400 authors.
Commenting on the fair, Alaoui says that she looks forward to connecting with culinary enthusiasts and book lovers alike.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Sharjah International Book Fair, a place where stories and cultures from around the world come together. I look forward to meeting readers, sharing the flavours of Morocco, and celebrating our love for food and storytelling together. I’m grateful to share Morocco’s culinary heritage in such a setting,” says Alaoui.
One noteworthy fair participant was National Media Office Chairman Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, who visited the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair 2024 on Friday 8 November, and visited several pavilions and reviewed the latest publications across various cultural and intellectual fields.
Commenting on the quality of vendors, Al Hamed praised Ruler of Sharjah His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi for “elevating the status of culture”, and says that the Fair represents a cultural renaissance for the region.
“Thanks to His Highness’ vision, the Sharjah Book Fair has become a bridge of civilisation that connects people and is one of the most significant cultural events attracting intelligentsia from all over the world. [The Fair’s] global first-place ranking for the fourth straight year in publishing rights transactions is an achievement that has significantly contributed to the region’s cultural renaissance. Book fairs are more than just marketplaces for books; they are vibrant hubs of innovation, intergenerational learning, and industry evolution. They nurture emerging talent, embrace technological advancements, and reimagine the cultural landscape. By inspiring young minds, cultivating a love for reading, and empowering the next generation of creators, book fairs play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future,” says Al Hamed.
Notes from the Editor: Imane Alaoui’s cookbook Flavors of Morocco Transcended will be featured at Book Land’s stand in Hall 6, Booth M-27 until 17 November 2024. You can also purchase her book online here.
