Combat Cooking

Gaza Maqlouba

My Combat Cooking uses the universal act of preparing and sharing food to bridge divides and foster understanding of closed borders and conflict zones. By focusing on the culinary traditions of communities embroiled in such areas of the world, Combat Cooking can offer a lens through which to explore the people, politics, and culture of these places. In times of strife, I hope that food can transcend barriers, by providing a shared experience that promotes dialogue and empathy. Through this exchange, Combat Cooking helps to preserve cultural heritage while also creating opportunities for people to learn about each other's lives, struggles, and aspirations, fostering unity and empathy.

Of course, it does not pretend to change the larger forces at play or resolve conflicts, but I wish it to provide a base for conversation and learning. The act of cooking and eating together, inherently communal, becomes a form of soft diplomacy, where recipes and stories are shared one meal at a time.

Every month during 2024 I have been focusing on a different conflict zone and its favourite dishes. In the hope that it brings some attention to the many people and their cultures under threat due to war, closed borders and other issues, I like to share my monthly meals with you.

Here is the pdf booklet for you to download.

Good Appetite, Guten Appetit and a Peaceful New Year.

Claudia