Over 65 participants who attended this year’s Culinary Festival, “Taste of Arewa” held in Abuja, left with an exhilarating experience urging the organizers to sustain the promotion of the Arewa culture.
According to the Convener, Maryam Ahmed, she said the idea of “Taste of Arewa” in its second edition was born out of a desire to amplify and celebrate a critical part of the Northern culture which cuts across Food, Art and Poetry.
Ahmed explained: “It was a memorable experience with a 7 course Fine Dining moment that delves deep into the rich tapestry of Northern Nigerian cuisine.
‘Taste of Arewa ’ is a celebration of a culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations, reflecting the vibrant culture, history, and resilience of the Northern Nigerian people.
In every dish, there’s a story waiting to be told stories of ancient trade routes that brought exotic spices, tales of communal living that have forged strong bonds, and the essence of a land where grains like Fonio, millets and sorghum are the cornerstones of a delectable culinary tradition.
The Convener stated further that throughout this journey, they ha e been able to explore the diverse flavors and techniques that define Northern Nigerian cuisine.
“A lot of our Arewa Food culture is gradually fading away, a lot of “forgotten” ingredients were explored using modern gastronomy and they were tasted by the guests.
We explored the rich decadent meats with spices that warm the soul to vibrant salads that burst with freshness, each recipe carries with it a piece of the Northern Nigerian identity.”
Every participants agreed that our local ingredients like kuka- baobab seeds, Acha- Fonio and Bado – water lily seeds can be transformed into mouth watering sensations.
Maryam Ahmed, the Convener is a renowned Chef and founder of Mimies Homemade with several years of experience in the food industry.
She is hopeful that the event will attract State Government in the North and Corporate sponsors as the event has proven to promote Nigeria’s diverse rich culture.
