Product Description

When the Aleppian Jewish community migrated from the ancient city of Aleppo in historic Syria and settled in New York and Latin American cities in the early 20th century, it brought its rich cuisine and vibrant culture. Most Syrian recipes and traditions, however, were not written down and existed only in the minds of older generations. Poopa Dweck, a first generation Syrian–Jewish American, has devoted much of her life to preserving and celebrating her community's centuries–old legacy.

Dweck relates the history and culture of her community through its extraordinary cuisine, offering more than 180 exciting ethnic recipes with tantalizing photos and describing the unique customs that the Aleppian Jewish community observes during holidays and lifecycle events. Among the irresistible recipes are:

•Bazargan–Tangy Tamarind Bulgur Salad

•Shurbat Addes–Hearty Red Lentil Soup with Garlic and Coriander

•Kibbeh–Stuffed Syrian Meatballs with Ground Rice

•Samak b'Batata–Baked Middle Eastern Whole Fish with Potatoes

•Sambousak–Buttery Cheese–Filled Sesame Pastries

•Eras bi'Ajweh–Date–Filled Crescents

•Chai Na'na–Refreshing Mint Tea

Like mainstream Middle Eastern cuisines, Aleppian Jewish dishes are alive with flavor and healthful ingredients–featuring whole grains, vegetables, legumes, and olive oil–but with their own distinct cultural influences. In Aromas of Aleppo, cooks will discover the best of Poopa Dweck's recipes, which gracefully combine Mediterranean and Levantine influences, and range from small delights (or maza) to daily meals and regal holiday feasts–such as the twelve–course Passover seder.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #8877 in Books
• Published on: 2007-09-01
• Released on: 2007-08-21
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 400 pages

Features

• Formats: hardcover

Review
"Aromas of Aleppo is as enticing to read through as to cook from." -- San Francisco Chronicle

"Poopa Dweck has put together such a wonderful collection of delicious recipes." -- Claudia Roden, author of The New Book of Middle Eastern Food and The Book of Jewish Food

"The intriguing recipes inspired me to head for my kitchen, but the story kept me in my chair, riveted." -- New York Times

"The large-format book could be relegated to the coffee table but won’t be." -- Chicago Tribune

"Tinged with the bittersweet memories of a community that lovingly upholds table traditions of the city that evicted all its members." -- New York Sun

"[Poopa Dweck] has made it her task to preserve their venerable cuisine in its fullness." -- Los Angeles Times

WINNER OF THE JEWISH NATIONAL BOOK AWARD -- No Source

Review
"The large-format book could be relegated to the coffee table but won't be." (Chicago Tribune )

WINNER OF THE JEWISH NATIONAL BOOK AWARD (No Source )

"Tinged with the bittersweet memories of a community that lovingly upholds table traditions of the city that evicted all its members." (New York Sun )

"Aromas of Aleppo is as enticing to read through as to cook from." (San Francisco Chronicle )

"The intriguing recipes inspired me to head for my kitchen, but the story kept me in my chair, riveted." (New York Times )

"[Poopa Dweck] has made it her task to preserve their venerable cuisine in its fullness." (Los Angeles Times )

"Poopa Dweck has put together such a wonderful collection of delicious recipes." (Claudia Roden, author of The New Book of Middle Eastern Food and The Book of Jewish Food )

About the Author

Poopa Dweck is an expert on Aleppian Jewish cookery and the creator of Deal Delights cookbooks. A highly active community leader, she frequently lectures and performs cooking demonstrations. She is also the founder of the Jesse Dweck City Learning Center and Daughters of Sarah and the cofounder of the Sephardic Women’s Organization. Dweck lives in Deal, New Jersey, with her husband, and has five children.

Customer Reviews

Absolutely Wonderful
This book is an incredible journy through a cusine and a culture. I love Middle Eastern Food and purchased this book to compare the Syrian Recipes to the Lebanese Recipes that I had grown up wiht. This book provided much more. A wonderful inside look at the Jewish Culture in Aleppo. The recipes are delicious (not much different than what I grew up with, except followng Kosher Laws) and easy to follow. The book has beautiful photography and now sits out in my kitchen counter. A must read for anyone interested in Middle Eastern Foods and cultures.

Astounding Scope, Beauty, and Execution
An extraordinary volume of a truly unique and exotic cuisine. This is by far the most beautiful cookbook I have seen - beautiful in appearance, and in spirit. Dweck reveals the secrets of Syrian-Jewish dishes in her time-tested recipes that will leave you and your guests wanting more. The exquisite images make your mouth water. Beyond the recipes and photographs, the book is a great read with Dweck's generous commentary on the ties between food and the cultural traditions of her community. The entire package is top-notch and destined to be the classic volume on this savory cuisine. No food lover should be without it. When not being used in the kitchen, this gorgeous work will be on your coffee table. A magnificent achievement, astounding in its scope, beauty, and execution.

A gift from above!
Growing up in a Syrian community, but marrying a non-Syrian has made it real difficult for a guy like me. Especially since I don't live in the community anymore. I've always missed our traditional foods, but couldn't get the recipes. Then this book came out in time for the chagim! So far, all the recipes that we've made are delicious, just like the best maza out there! If you like Syrian foods, this is really going to put a smile on your face!