In our family, food has always been more than just sustenance, it’s a celebration of life, tradition, and the bonds we share with each other. Growing up, food was at the center of every gathering, every occasion, and every opportunity to connect. Whether it was around our dining table or exploring new flavours while traveling, food became the thread that wove our family’s story together.
A Journey of Flavours from Around the World
My parents instilled in us a deep appreciation for food, not only from our own culture but from across the world. When we travelled, it wasn’t about eating in fancy five-star hotels. Instead, we sought out small, quaint restaurants where the meals were prepared with authenticity and care. From these little places, we learned the true essence of food: its ability to bring people together, no matter where you are.
We tried everything, sometimes to the surprise of our friends back home, snails in France, frog legs in Singapore, and even khiri kebab in Mumbai. My parents were determined to expose us to all kinds of foods, teaching us that food is not a chore but an adventure. Every meal was an opportunity to learn something new, to understand different cultures, and to appreciate the beauty in diversity.
Continuing the Tradition with My Kids
Now, as a parent myself, I’ve carried on that tradition. When my family travels, I expose my kids to the wonderful world of food from different cultures. On our trip to Thailand, we skipped the fancy restaurants and instead found tiny hole-in-the-wall spots, often tucked away but filled with charm. It was in these little places that we experienced the best meals—simple, yet absolutely delicious.
Memories of pork on rice and authentic pad Thai served in grandma-style kitchens will stay with my kids forever. The ingredients were fresh, the meals were cooked with love, and my children had an amazing time learning about the beauty of food and culture. They’ve come home with not just souvenirs but stories about the meals we shared, reminding me how food always leaves a lasting imprint.
The Unspoken Rules of Food in Our Home
Back home in Abu Dhabi, our family had its own set of food traditions. My mother always said that food should never be less, but it should never go to waste. When guests arrived, she ensured there was more than enough to go around. The sight of a full table was a symbol of warmth and hospitality, but we also learned the importance of preserving and respecting the food we had. Leftovers were stored in the freezer and used throughout the week, a practice that has stayed with me to this day.
My father worked hard to keep traditions alive, especially when it came to family celebrations.
Food as a Celebration, Not a Chore
In our home, food was never a task to be completed or a responsibility to be checked off a list. It was something to look forward to, a way of bringing people together. My parents’ love for cooking and feeding others deeply influenced me. I watched as they prepared meals with care and dedication, ensuring that everyone around them felt welcome and nourished.
The joy they found in cooking was contagious, and it wasn’t long before I found myself following in their footsteps. Over time, I developed my own love for creating authentic dishes from different cuisines. The act of cooking became a way for me to connect not only with my family but with our history and traditions. Every dish I make today is a tribute to the meals I grew up with, and the values my parents instilled in me.
Honouring Traditions, Celebrating Family
My father was particularly passionate about keeping cultural traditions alive, and I remember the effort he put into recreating authentic meals for every occasion.
During the Feast of Mary, we would sit down as a family, served on banana leaves in the traditional way. At Christmas, my father would prepare a feast with all the trimmings-turkey, stuffing, and more ensuring that the holiday spirit was always alive and well. And in the cool winter months of the UAE, barbecues became a tradition of their own, with friends and family gathering to enjoy the food, the weather, and each other’s company.
Celebrating Food with Okhli Kitchens
At Okhli Australia, we believe that food is something to be celebrated. That’s why we’ve created Okhli Kitchens, a special section where we’ll share traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. These recipes are more than just instructions, they’re a way to honour the love and care that went into every meal, just as my parents and grandparents did.
But we also want to hear from you! Do you have a favourite recipe that’s been passed down in your family or a dish that brings back fond memories of special occasions? Share it with us, and your recipe could be featured in our upcoming newsletters as part of Okhli Kitchens. Together, let’s celebrate the joy of food and the memories it creates.
Bringing People Together- The Okhli Way
Okhli Australia is all about bringing people together for a meal, no matter the culture. Our products are a celebration of that shared experience. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted to be the perfect addition to your next gathering, not only making a statement on your table but also nourishing both your health and the environment. Whether it’s a family feast or an intimate meal with friends, Okhli’s cookware and serveware are designed to be a part of those special moments, where food brings us closer together.
