This was truly the most unique culinary and cultural experience that I've ever done!…read more
I ventured to Borough Park to attend the Uzbek immersion workshop with Damira. She and her husband warmly welcomed us into their home and led us to a beautifully decorated table of what was described as a "welcome snack," but was actually a delicious feast in itself. There was Uzbek dried fruits, nuts, both sweet and savory pastries, and hot green tea. I loved the Uzbek raisins, which are bigger and juicier and just better than any raisins I've ever had!
As we ate, Damira shared photos and stories of her family's life in Samarkand, an ancient city in Uzbekistan that lies on the silk road.
Once we were all well-acquainted and nourished, we headed to the kitchen to cook the main feast. On the menu were homemade individual breads, spinach stuffed pastries, a spring cabbage salad, a cucumber potato salad, and a lamb stew. Damira was such a great teacher, demonstrating techniques before having us actively participate in the prep, cooking, and serving of each dish. She timed everything perfectly so that we had breaks and ate basically the entire afternoon, while continuing to engage us in stories of her home and culture.
When we sat down for the final meal, the delicious food was somehow made even better from the meaningful connection we all shared while cooking it. The four and a half hour class flew by and while I didn't want to leave, I was very happy when we were each sent home with enough leftovers to last another two meals.
