Hawa Hassan's Culinary Journey: Preserving African Heritage Through Recipes
If we're going to represent it, then we have to invite everybody from every African country to the conversation, or we have to make room for them to educate us about where they come from.
Food has a unique way of connecting us to our roots, and no one understands this better than Hawa Hassan. In this episode of Unwasted, hosted by Imperfect Foods, Hawa shares her journey of preserving African culinary traditions through her cookbook, 'In Bibi's Kitchen: The Recipes and Stories of Grandmothers from the Eight African Countries that Touch the Indian Ocean.' This isn't just a cookbook; it's a heartfelt tribute to the grandmothers whose recipes and stories have shaped generations.
Hawa dives into the magic of family recipes, exploring how they bridge generations and continents. She believes that to truly represent African cuisine, it's essential to include voices from every corner of the continent. Her cookbook features recipes from eight African grandmothers, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and histories. But the conversation doesn't stop at food. Hawa also discusses the importance of reducing food waste and living sustainably.
She offers practical tips, like using spices creatively and understanding the history behind ingredients. Hawa emphasizes that perfection in cooking is a myth perpetuated by social media, encouraging listeners to embrace imperfections and experiment in the kitchen. This episode is a celebration of African culture, family bonds, and sustainable living. Whether you're a foodie, an environmentalist, or someone looking to connect with your heritage, Hawa's insights are sure to inspire.