“Joudie Kalla also looks homeward for inspiration in Palestine in a Plate: Memories From My Mother’s Kitchen (Interlink, $35). These easygoing recipes revel in freekeh and fava beans, almonds and orange blossom water, and of course tahini, which Kalla loves so much it turns up in her brownies. She gives monkfish an excellent makeover by roasting it in a thick coat of sumac, za’atar and cilantro, and dresses a lively cauliflower salad with yogurt and, yes, tahini. There’s a showpiece array of stuffed vine leaves and lamb chops, flipped out of the pot and served upside down with yogurt, or you could entertain more simply with her generous platter of well-spiced chicken wings. ‘I want to pay homage,’ she writes, ‘to the Palestine that my family knew and remembers.’ And that’s exactly what this book does so gracefully.”

“The food of Palestine is mouth-watering and colorful. This treasure-trove of a book shows it at its best.”

“This book goes to the heart of the relationship between food and identity, and conveys a sense of belonging through beautiful, compelling and, yes, joyous recipes. I just want to eat everything in it.”

“An important cuisine and culinary tradition that needs to be understood, celebrated, and enjoyed.”

“Joudie Kalla takes the reader on a compelling and delicious culinary journey through Palestine. A much-needed compilation of hitherto undocumented Palestinian family recipes—an ode to Palestine’s rich culinary heritage.”

“Once again Joudie puts Palestine on the map so beautifully by celebrating the breadth and depth of our cuisine—making Palestinians everywhere proud. This important book is a visual and culinary feast that preserves our history and cultural identity.”

“Joudie Kalla is an exceptionally talented chef with a deep understanding of tradition and ingredients that enables her to create exciting and adventurous dishes.”

“Joudie probably makes the best Palestinian food I ever tasted; I'm a huge fan of hers. Joudie will make you discover the best Palestinian food.”