Ancient Assyrian Cuisine Revived in Groundbreaking Cookbook

A revolutionary cookbook is set to hit English markets on September 24, 2024, promising to transport readers and food enthusiasts alike to the ancient kitchens of Assyria. 'The Oldest Kitchen in the World: 4,000 Years of Middle Eastern Cooking Passed Down Through Generations' offers a rare glimpse into the culinary traditions of the Suryoye, also known as Assyrians or Arameans, whose recipes have shaped Middle Eastern cuisine for millennia.

Authored by Matay de Mayee on behalf of his mother, Smuni Turan, this unique culinary compendium traces its roots to the world's oldest recorded cuneiform recipes, dating back an astonishing 4,000 years. De Mayee, making his debut as a cookbook author, has meticulously compiled and preserved these ancient recipes, many of which have been passed down through generations solely by oral tradition.

The cookbook not only presents a collection of recipes but also serves as a cultural artifact, exploring the history, traditions, celebrations, language, and customs of the Suryoye people. Despite being dispersed across the globe, this ancient community continues to speak dialects of Aramaic and maintain their culinary heritage.

Readers will find an array of dishes presented in their original Aramaic names, ranging from ancient recipes like labiniyeh to beloved classics such as baklava. The book covers a wide spectrum of Middle Eastern cuisine, including soups, proteins, vegetables, and sweets. What sets this cookbook apart is the inclusion of time-honored cooking secrets, versatile uses for often-overlooked ingredients, and seemingly forgotten traditions shared by de Mayee and his mother.

Renowned food writer Nigel Slater has praised the book as "a rare and fascinating insight into an ancient and delicious cuisine...with time-honored recipes from the heart of a home." This endorsement underscores the cookbook's significance not only for culinary enthusiasts but also for those interested in cultural preservation and historical gastronomy.

The publication of 'The Oldest Kitchen in the World' is particularly noteworthy in an era where traditional knowledge and cultural practices are at risk of being lost. By documenting these ancient recipes and techniques, de Mayee is contributing to the preservation of Assyrian cultural heritage and offering a bridge between ancient culinary traditions and modern kitchens.

Tra Publishing, known for creating beautifully crafted books that inspire social, cultural, and environmental awareness, is publishing the English version of the cookbook. Distributed worldwide through Simon & Schuster, the book will be available at major bookstores, online retailers, and through Tra Publishing's official website.

The release of this cookbook comes at a time when there is growing interest in diverse culinary traditions and sustainable food practices. By showcasing recipes that have stood the test of time for thousands of years, 'The Oldest Kitchen in the World' offers valuable insights into sustainable and time-tested cooking methods that may have relevance in today's discussions about food security and cultural preservation.

For historians, anthropologists, and culinary researchers, this cookbook represents a valuable primary source, offering tangible connections to ancient Mesopotamian civilizations through the medium of food. It provides a unique opportunity to explore how culinary traditions have evolved over millennia while maintaining core elements that define Assyrian cuisine.

As global cuisine continues to evolve and cross-cultural culinary exchanges become more common, 'The Oldest Kitchen in the World' stands as a testament to the enduring power of food to connect us with our past and with cultures different from our own. It invites readers to explore the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern culinary traditions and to appreciate the depth of history behind each recipe.