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Portrait of Reem Kassis

Reem Kassis

Pioneering author redefining Palestinian cuisine

Born
1987
Born in
Jerusalem, Palestine
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Why Reem is here

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.

Their story

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.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Reem’s path.

  1. Early 2000s

    Leaving Jerusalem for University in the US

    Kassis moved to the United States at 17 to pursue higher education.

  2. 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.

  3. 2017

    Publishing "The Palestinian Table"

    Her debut cookbook, which won The Guild of Food Writers Award and was a James Beard Award nominee.

  4. 2021

    Publishing "The Arabesque Table"

    Her second cookbook, featuring a collection of contemporary recipes and stories from the Arab world.

  5. 2023

    Publishing "We Are Palestinian"

    A children's book celebrating Palestinian culture, history, and tradition.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Revitalizing Palestinian Cuisine

    Through her cookbooks, Kassis has played a pivotal role in introducing and celebrating Palestinian cuisine on the international stage.

    Watch

  2. Cultural Ambassador

    Her works serve as a bridge between Palestinian culture and the rest of the world.

  3. Storytelling Through Food

    Merges recipes with personal anecdotes and historical insights.

  4. Advocacy for Authentic Representation

    Kassis addresses the importance of cultural authenticity and the danger of cultural erasure in her writings.

  5. Educational Outreach

    Her children's book aims to educate young audiences about Palestinian heritage.

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Reem in interviews, talks and coverage.

  • 01Revitalizing Palestinian Cuisine↗

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