CHEF MAROUN CHEDID EXPLORES THE MEDITERRANEAN

Back from the Food’in Sud Mediterranean cuisine trade event, which took place last January in Marseille, France, celebrity chef and consultant Maroun Chedid, discusses the significance of his title as the “godfather” for Lebanese cuisine and his new ventures.

“Being the godfather of the Food'in Sud event was very important, as it allowed me to highlight our Lebanese cuisine and terroir products. It was a great event that gathered all renowned Mediterranean chefs, and was the perfect platform to interact with my fellow chefs, where we shared, learned and experienced our differences as well as our similarities,” Chedid explained. He said that the event helped showcase Lebanese cuisine and place it on the map of the Mediterranean cuisines that are loved and demanded worldwide; especially now with the trends of healthy eating, and the choice of fresh produce and products.

“The trends that were highlighted during the show are very similar to the Lebanese way of cooking and traditions that were inherited from our forefathers.” Chedid commented that these are embodied in respecting the products, going for simplicity, be it in cooking, selecting ingredients and presenting the food. “This is mirrored in our own cuisine, where we use fresh seasonal products and respect tradition. Sharing food and transforming meals into special occasions where food is shared with loved ones is also a trend that we know very well, thanks to our famous mezze. Due to the fantastic job we carried out last January, Lebanese cuisine is at the forefront of Mediterranean cuisines.”

During the event Chedid launched a new line of Lebanese terroir products inspired by his mother, Georgette by Maroun Chedid. The new line includes olive oil, oriental spices, chutneys, tapenades and jams. Currently available on the chef’s website, they will be on sale in a special boutique, set to open next October, alongside a cooking academy, restaurant and bistro in Achrafieh, Lebanon.