At the heart of the bustling culinary scene in Oman, the air is thick with enticing aromas wafting from a quaint, portable kitchen set up by none other than Chef Halima—a beloved figure who endearingly goes by the name Mama Halima. As she warms her hands over the grill, laughter and the sound of sizzling lebanese saj fill the space, capturing the attention of an eager audience. Recreated to reflect the essence of her traditional Lebanese kitchen, this vibrant setting is not merely a backdrop; it is a celebration of culture, family, and the art of cooking. Under Mama Halima's guidance, guests are invited to indulge in the authentic flavours of Lebanon, a culinary adventure that brings a slice of her homeland to the table of Marjanah.
Hailing from the rich culinary landscape of Lebanon, Mama Halima’s warmth is palpable, reminiscent of a beloved matriarch. Her charming smile and engaging personality disarm even the most discerning epicureans. With a wealth of expertise, she serves up the finest concoctions of traditional Lebanese fare, capturing hearts in the process. After numerous visits to Oman, her cuisine has already graced the opulent halls of the Al Bustan Palace, where it has wowed even the most selective of guests. Now, she features prominently in the Ramadhan iftar and suhoor offerings at the exquisite St Regis Muscat, where her dishes bring comfort and joy to those partaking in these sacred meals.
"I've always loved Oman," Mama Halima reflects, her voice warm and inviting. "This country truly is very close to my heart, and I've been here before several times, particularly during the Ramadhan season. I love the way that Ramadhan is celebrated here." She speaks passionately of her cooking traditions—recipes passed down through generations, yet enriched by her own creative twists. This balance of tradition and innovation not only preserves the flavours that epitomise Lebanese cuisine but also adapts them for her diverse audience.
At the core of her culinary offerings is saj, a beloved staple in Lebanese culture. Made from simple ingredients—flour, water, and salt—saj is a flatbread cooked on a domed oven, resulting in a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with an array of fillings. In Lebanon, saj is adored for its versatility, and Mama Halima has taken it a step further. While she delights in the classic combination of saj loaded with cheese and zaatar, her adventurous spirit has seen her accommodate unique tastes. In Oman, one can find saj filled with indulgent Nutella, jams, or other sweet toppings, expanding its appeal to those with a penchant for innovation.
For Mama Halima, Ramadhan embodies a tapestry of memories and experiences. "A Lebanese Ramadhan is always a joyful occasion," she reminisces, highlighting the sense of community and generosity that permeates the month. Having experienced Ramadhan in Oman multiple times, she admits, "The Omanis love my food, and the expats here share the same enthusiasm. For anyone who enjoys working in their kitchen, that is always a compliment." Yet, it is not only the culinary aspects that resonate with her; for Mama Halima, the spiritual and charitable dimensions of Ramadhan are equally significant, creating a profound connection with the tradition.
"Other than the spiritual aspect of Ramadhan, the charity work and the compassion of the season, Ramadhan is also about embracing the food that reminds you of your childhood," she says, her eyes gleaming with nostalgia. It is this deep-rooted passion and love for her culture that shines through in every dish she prepares, making Mama Halima a true culinary ambassador for Lebanon.
With each bite of her authentic saj, one can taste the love and heritage that goes into her cooking, bridging cultures and creating a culinary experience that feels just like home. Through Mama Halima, Oman's dining scene is enriched, reminding us all of the delightful connections forged through food and the shared spirit of Ramadhan.
You can still catch Mama Halima's unique offering at Marjanah at the St Regis Muscat every night till the end of Ramadhan.
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