Oum Ali - A Saj Story

Oum Ali, in her native village Majdalzoum, baking saj bread

This is Oum Ali! I have known her for so many years. She is a wonderful woman who has inspired me and so many others. She is a fighter and has a beautiful story to share. Watch her short film, produced by Slow Food Beirut with film maker Nay Aoun (funded by USAID). The best way to tell a story these days is through video animation. This video is very special, as it portrays a small scale food producer, who against all odds, made a name for herself in Lebanon and around the world.

I live in my bubble in Lebanon, meaning I choose to see a facet that really matters to me. I have chosen to dedicate my life's work to promote such good people because finally they represent the real Lebanon. Authentic people from different communities who share the values of good, clean and fair foods. They express themselves through sharing the foods of their ancestors to keep our culinary heritage alive.

Oum Ali, is a mother, then she is a food producer... and that has made us connect in a special way. We understand the value of family and cook to express our love. The love does not have boundaries, as food is shared to all who have a deep respect for its significance. She has a big heart and will stay hours explaining why she chooses to cook or bake in a certain way. Generosity at its best.

Throughout my journey, the meeting of such good people has made all the difference. And it is important for me to share all that I have learned or have experienced with them... for I also believe that it is by giving to others that one can find true happiness in this world.

Enjoy!

For the Love of Thyme: The Man who Cultivates Lebanon's Wild Herb

Mohammad Ali Neimeh, better known as Abu Kassem’s life revolves around zaatar, the wild thyme of Lebanon. During the Israeli occupation of South Lebanon, he needed to change the way thyme grows, out of fear he would be shot or shelled trying to get to his plants. The changes that he implemented have seen huge changes in the way that thyme is grown now in Lebanon. This is his story. 

Please watch this beautiful short film uploaded on our website www.slowfoodbeirut, generously donated by Nay Aoun.We, as Lebanese, are proud of our zaatar and Abou Cassem in an example of why. Let us know what you think and please share.