At social gatherings and even on social media, these Kuwaiti men discuss local and international dishes, and also share techniques and tips for cooking the meals, from the best ingredients to the right seasonings.
Chef Ziyad Hamada, who specializes in Kuwaiti cuisine at a famous hotel, said that since he was a little boy, he was interested in becoming a chef.
He said, “I first began cooking for family and friends before opening a restaurant for the public.”
The chef mentioned that his first teachers were his female relatives, who taught him everything he needed to know about cooking excellent Kuwaiti meals.
Hamada added that he was curious about the process of cooking, asking questions whenever he ate a delicious ‘Machbous Dajaj’ (rice topped with chicken) or any other Kuwaiti dish.
The Kuwaiti chef affirmed that he developed his skills locally by joining the cooking staff of a well-known hotel and working for 13 hours daily.
Chef Hamada added that he undertook various specialized courses abroad to help improve his knowledge.
With regards to his future plans, Hamada expressed his hope to open a cooking academy that caters to the needs of local chefs and helps them develop their skills in the restaurant sector.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Al-Bader, another Kuwaiti chef and owner of a number of local restaurants, noted the future of the profession lies in attracting youths and allowing them avenues for growth.
He affirmed that becoming a chef was a legitimate profession for Kuwaitis that was rewarding for those who have a passion for cooking. He mentioned that his parents and family played a huge role in his life by encouraging him to seek work in the food industry.
Al-Bader also called on Kuwaiti youths to pursue other interests whether they were interested in carpentry, sewing, or mechanics, and stressed that it was about time that Kuwaitis pursued their passions rather than settle for jobs that did not hold their interest.