Dr. Pamela Chrabieh

Thank you to Gemma White & The National – UAE for the interview. Here are a few excerpts:

“Eating with hands carries traditional significance as well as fostering a deeper connection with the food and its preparation,” says Dr Pamela Chrabieh, co-founder and managing director of Lebanon-based Kulturnest. “It’s a sentiment shared across many cultures in the Southwest Asia and North Africa regions.” (…)

“Eating with hands offers several health benefits, too,” says Dr Chrabieh. “It encourages a slower, more mindful approach to eating, which improves digestion and overall enjoyment of food. Direct contact with food can enhance the appreciation of flavours, especially in cuisines rich in spices and oils.”

Of new generations discovering this style of eating, she says: “Embracing traditional practices in contemporary settings can foster a sense of identity and continuity within communities, enforcing cultural connections in a technology-driven world.

“By embracing both traditional and modern perspectives on eating with hands, individuals can enjoy a richer, more holistic dining experience that connects them to their own or another’s food, culture and community in meaningful ways.”

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE. (Published on July 23, 2024)