top of page
Pixel Frame Bottom

Mahmoud-Darwish.jpg

Reem Kassis

Pioneering author redefining Palestinian cuisine

Pixel Frame Bottom

DOB.png

Date of Birth:

1987

Place.png

Jerusalem, Palestine

Place of Birth:

Why Featured?

Reem Kassis has gained significant acclaim as an author for her insightful integration of Palestinian cuisine with cultural, historical, and political narratives. Her work transcends mere cookery, offering readers a deep understanding of Palestinian heritage and identity through food. Her cookbooks, notably "The Palestinian Table" and "The Arabesque Table," are celebrated for their rich tapestry of recipes woven with personal anecdotes and cultural insights, making her a key figure in popularizing Palestinian cuisine globally.

Brief bio

Reem Kassis is a Palestinian writer and author known for her unique approach to exploring the intersection of food, culture, history, and politics. Born and raised in Jerusalem, Kassis initially pursued a career outside of the kitchen, earning degrees in business and international studies and working in business consultancy. However, her passion for her culinary heritage led her to author cookbooks that have become critical in introducing Palestinian cuisine to a global audience, earning her numerous accolades.

Major Milestones

Contributions

  • Leaving Jerusalem for University in the US (Early 2000s): Kassis moved to the United States at 17 to pursue higher education.

  • Education and Early Career: She earned an MBA from Wharton and an MSc in social psychology from the London School of Economics, working with large corporations and NGOs.

  • Publishing "The Palestinian Table" (2017): Her debut cookbook, which won The Guild of Food Writers Award and was a James Beard Award nominee.

  • Publishing "The Arabesque Table" (2021): Her second cookbook, featuring a collection of contemporary recipes and stories from the Arab world.

  • Publishing "We Are Palestinian" (2023): A children's book celebrating Palestinian culture, history, and tradition.

  • Revitalizing Palestinian Cuisine: Through her cookbooks, Kassis has played a pivotal role in introducing and celebrating Palestinian cuisine on the international stage...See More

  • Cultural Ambassador: Her works serve as a bridge between Palestinian culture and the rest of the world.

  • Storytelling Through Food: Merges recipes with personal anecdotes and historical insights.

  • Advocacy for Authentic Representation: Kassis addresses the importance of cultural authenticity and the danger of cultural erasure in her writings.

  • Educational Outreach: Her children's book aims to educate young audiences about Palestinian heritage.

Date of Last Update: 
September 3, 2024

See similar profiles

Show your support — share their legacy with your friends & followers!