Chef Ara Zada joins us for a flavorful discussion on how classical French cooking techniques can elevate traditional Middle Eastern dishes. In this clip, Ara explains the art of layering flavors—starting with aromatics like mirepoix, onions, garlic, and sofrito—and how integrating these elements into your cooking liquid enhances not just the broth, but the meat and vegetables as well.
Ara breaks down why adding ingredients like okra or green beans at the end of the process preserves their brightness and texture, creating a dish that’s bold, balanced, and rooted in both heritage and precision.
Trained in the culinary arts and deeply connected to his Armenian and Middle Eastern roots, Ara Zada is more than a chef—he’s a cultural storyteller. With a background in film and food media, Ara has worked behind the scenes on shows like MasterChef, while championing home-cooked flavors on screen and in print.
In this series, we explore not just recipes, but techniques, tradition, and the philosophy behind good cooking. Ara brings a unique perspective—honoring ancestral recipes while applying the discipline of French culinary training to elevate them to a new level.
Whether you're a home cook, a culinary student, or simply a food lover, this clip gives insight into how professional techniques can make your dishes sing—with deeper flavor, better structure, and unforgettable results.
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🎧 Full episode streaming now on Wine Talks with Paul K.
