Named after the Swahili word for “ocean,” “Bahari” is a gastronomic journey through the intricate flavors and historical tapestry of Omani cuisine. Shaped by extensive coastlines and a multifaceted maritime heritage stretching across Pakistan, Iran, India, the Swahili coast, and Portugal, Omani cuisine is a fusion of diverse influences.

Winner of the 2023 Jane Grigson Trust Award and recognized as one of Evening Standard’s top cookbooks of 2024, Dina Macki, a British-born Omani-Zanzibari chef, delves into Oman’s distinctive culinary landscape with sincerity and curiosity. She presents the first Omani cookbook authored by a native chef.

Within this unique cookbook, Bahari, Macki embarks on a culinary exploration of Oman and Zanzibar, uncovering local delicacies and reviving the traditional dishes of her upbringing. Featuring over 90 recipes spanning meats, seafood, vegetables, homemade breads, dips, desserts, and beverages, Macki warmly welcomes readers into her kitchen. She offers guidance on preparing exquisite Omani fare in their own homes.

Through insightful essays and introspective musings on identity, Macki shares the narratives behind each recipe and ingredient. She offers a fresh perspective on the role of food in connecting individuals to their heritage and communities.

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