Shiraz & Syrah by Mina Abdi
What's It About?
A convergence of Persian and French cuisine that celebrates culture, love, and the pure joy of exceptional food.If you’re like me, you wouldn’t have thought there was much of a connection between Persian and French culture. But what connects people more than anything? Food.
Chef Mina Abdi showcases the intricate connections between French and Persian cuisine in her cookbook, Shiraz & Syrah. Join her on a culinary adventure like no other in her delectable collection of simple — yet elegant — recipes that are near and dear to the hearts of many.
Elegant Yet Simple Recipes
For the average at-home chef, French and Persian recipes can seem daunting, but Chef Abdi does an excellent job making her recipes doable for even a novice in the kitchen. These easy-to-follow recipes capture the elegance of their roots while effortlessly fitting on a single page.
Abdi includes a wide assortment of recipes, from soups and salads to appetizers, desserts, and a large variety of main dishes. Quite a few stood out in not only how mouth-watering they looked, but how unique they appeared. Some of these include the crustless fresh herb quiche, saffron shrimp and Persian love cake. I for one can’t wait to try my hand at the scallops beurre blanc and the noodle and herb soup!
But Shiraz & Syrah offers more than delectable recipes. Chef Abdi shares the vibrant culture and history behind Persian and French cuisine.
Laced with Rich History and Culture
Abdi’s story began on the lush streets of her Iranian childhood, growing up surrounded by aromatic street foods and enjoying rose water ice cream on hot summer afternoons. Living in a culture where food was central to identity — where entire families enjoyed cooking together, where recipes were lovingly passed down over generations — Abdi gained an intense love of cooking and soon yearned to learn the recipes of the world.
After mastering Persian cuisine, Abdi traveled to France to study as a chef. In her cookbook, Abdi reveals the historical and cultural links that bond Iran and France, particularly in the connection between Shiraz and Syrah.
She also reveals the history and cultural significance behind certain recipes and ingredients, like the prevalence of saffron in Persian food and the folklore surrounding pistachios, almonds and pomegranates. You’ll also learn what brings good luck on the Persian New Year and what comfort food the author’s family enjoys on Christmas.
Perfect Addition to Any Kitchen
Featuring breathtaking photography and framed by beautiful designs, the recipes found in Shiraz & Syrah are the perfect tribute to French and Persian culture. Between decadent recipes, you’ll even find short food-related poems from famous Persians and Frenchmen, including Omar Kayyam and Victor Hugo.
Shiraz & Syrah is the perfect addition to anyone’s kitchen, whether you’re new to cooking or a professional. There’s no better cookbook for simple recipes that feel elegant and taste delicious.
About Mina Abdi:
Mina Abdi is a professional chef. She has been cooking for family and friends, restaurants, and events for the last fifty years. Originally from Iran, Mina grew up surrounded by old family recipes and traditional dishes. Inspired by Iran’s appreciation for culture and cuisine, she mastered Persian cooking and grew eager to explore other countries’ dishes. Mina trained as a chef in French culinary schools, slowly learning to perfect savory recipes and pastries. Her love of both Persian and French cuisines prompted her to combine them in one book for foodies to enjoy. Whether it’s an exotic Persian dish or an elegant French meal, Mina believes in making every recipe approachable and delicious.
