Innovative book takes first prize at the 2006 Gourmand World Cookbook Awards

DUBAI, U.A.E. - January 3, 2007 - The pioneering cookbook New Arabian Cuisine won first place for the German language market's 'Best Foreign Cookery Book' at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2006.   The new cookbook represents a selection of over 120 culinary creations based on the innovative gastronomic genre of the same name - also known as 'haute' Arabian cuisine - which bridges the culinary arts from Arabia and Europe.  Penned by a team of top chefs from the JW Marriott Dubai, New Arabian Cuisine recently debuted in both German and English versions at the Frankfurt Book Fair in October 2006.

The cuisine itself is regarded as a link between Orient and Occident, and according to JW Marriott Dubai's general manager, Ibrahim Barghout, New Arabian Cuisine reflects the global diversity and creativity trend-setting Dubai tends to offer.

"Dubai possesses such a rich variety of cultures, each bringing in first-rate ideas and concepts to the culinary world," said Barghout.  "Yet, until now Arabian fare has been virtually untouched in terms of a remarkable symbiosis, novel creation or unique mode of presentation.  Our chefs not only assembled a book of recipes, they created an entirely new genre, and that is certainly worthy of a first place award."

The culinary quartet behind the concept of New Arabian Cuisine is chefs Ingo Maa? (Germany), Christian Jean (France), Amgad Zaki (Egypt) and Khalil Zakhem (Syria) all from the JW Marriott Dubai hotel.  The subtle fusion of alluring ingredients from the Middle East with elements of European cooking traditions produces a cuisine rich in flavour and heritage with a global appeal, and Maa? sees this as a way to open conversations and eyes into the beauty of the Middle Eastern culture.

"This inspired cuisine provides the perfect opportunity for those who have been previously hesitant to try Middle Eastern food," said Maa?.  "Our presentation alone is unexpected and refreshing - our guests often don't even realise they are eating a dish that is firmly rooted in Arabia but infused with European flair."

A labour of love for almost two years, the chefs met with photographer and author Lutz J?kel to craft the collection of recipes and photographs. The book was published in both German and English at a retail price of 48 / AED195 including tax.  Major retailers in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Dubai sell New Arabian Cuisine with online bookings available via Amazon.de and Libri.de.  Future distribution plans are focused in the United States and via Amazon.com. 

Recognising the innovation behind the cuisine, Lufthansa has already implemented several recipes into its 'Star Chef Campaign' for the airline's First and Business Class flights on all European outbound flights to the Middle East as of November 1st 2006.   First-class passengers enjoy such fare as Moroccan-style Carrot Soup with Honey and Ras el Hanout Spices served with Confit of Squab or Saddle of Lamb in Coffee Bean Crust, while Business-class travellers could try the Tlitli Pasta with Porcini Mushroom Cream and Roasted Vegetables or Grilled Halloumi, Sumac Cream Cheese and Labneh Cheese Balls.

Recipes found in The New Arabian Cuisine cookbook can be also be sampled throughout the JW Marriott Dubai's catering events and services.  The hotel offers a specialized menu based solely on New Arabian Cuisine for major functions such as cocktail receptions, conferences and exhibitions, buffets, outside catering in concerts, at home or the office in Dubai.  Set menu prices range from approximately AED125 to over AED 300 per person for catering events.  Call the JW Marriott Dubai directly on +971 (4) 262 4444 for further information on events.

"The JW Marriott Dubai is positioned as one of the top food and beverage hotels in Dubai where the culinary team constantly stays innovative by introducing new products, promotions and services," said Barghout.  "We are tremendously proud of our chefs for both their accomplishments and the awards that have followed.  I'm sure the best is yet to come."

New Arabian Cuisine will compete against winners in the same category in other languages for 'The Best in the World' competition, and the results will be announced in Beijing, China, at the Gourmand Gala Dinner on April 7th 2007.

The Gourmand World Cookbook Awards were founded in 1995 by Edouard Cointreau with awards made in 34 categories for cookbooks and 14 for wine books.  

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© Press Release 2007