In our ever-connected world, food has become a gateway to understanding and appreciating the vast array of cultures that populate our planet. Mustafa Egemen Şener, a devoted culinary explorer and chef, has spent years traversing the globe, diving into local kitchens, and immersing himself in the traditions of diverse communities. His passion for food and culture has culminated in a remarkable collection, «Recipes from Around the World – Cooking Global Dishes at Home,» where Egemen Mustafa brings the flavors of kitchen from Belarus, Turkey and all around the world.

This cookbook is a treasure trove of international recipes that have been lovingly adapted for the home cook. Egemen Mustafa Şener’s philosophy is simple: anyone, regardless of their culinary skill level, can recreate authentic dishes from any corner of the world with the right guidance. His book is not just a list of ingredients and instructions; it’s a cultural journey that introduces you to the stories, traditions, and history behind each dish.

Imagine the aroma of a Moroccan Tagine simmering on your stove, the spices blending together to create a fragrant, mouthwatering stew. Or picture yourself crafting a bowl of Vietnamese Pho, the rich broth infused with star anise and cinnamon, slow-cooked to perfection. These experiences are just a glimpse into the culinary adventures awaiting you in this book.

Egemen Mustafa Şener has carefully selected recipes that represent the essence of their respective cultures while being approachable for the home cook. Each dish is presented with detailed instructions, helpful tips, and suggestions for sourcing authentic ingredients, making it easier than ever to bring a taste of the world to your table.

Featured Recipes from Mustafa Egemen Şener’s Collection:

1. Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Olives

This iconic dish from North Africa combines tender chicken, preserved lemons, and a medley of spices like cumin, coriander, and saffron. Cooked slowly in a traditional tagine or a heavy-bottomed pot, the result is a richly flavored stew with a unique balance of tangy, savory, and sweet notes. Serve it over fluffy couscous, and you have a meal that’s both comforting and exotic.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in
• 1 preserved lemon, quartered
• 1 cup green olives, pitted
• 2 onions, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp turmeric
• A pinch of saffron threads
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a tagine or large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
2. Add the chicken thighs, spices, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken on all sides.
3. Add the preserved lemons, olives, saffron, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over couscous.

2. Japanese Sushi Rolls (Maki)

Making sushi at home might seem daunting, but with Mustafa Egemen Şener’s step-by-step instructions, you’ll be rolling like a pro in no time. This recipe for traditional Maki Sushi highlights the art of balancing fresh ingredients with vinegared rice, all wrapped in a sheet of nori (seaweed). Customize your rolls with your favorite fillings, whether it’s fresh fish, avocado, or cucumber.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sushi rice
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
• 1/2 lb fresh sushi-grade fish (such as tuna or salmon), thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• Soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for serving

Instructions:

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice with water in a rice cooker or on the stovetop. Once cooked, let it cool slightly.
2. Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the warm rice and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on a bamboo sushi mat. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Arrange your choice of fillings (fish, avocado, cucumber) in a line along the bottom third of the rice.
5. Using the bamboo mat, carefully roll the sushi into a tight cylinder, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

3. Indian Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

A beloved dish from the heart of India, Butter Chicken is known for its creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices. This recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing the authentic flavors that make it a favorite worldwide. Paired with warm naan or steamed basmati rice, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cubed
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 cup tomato purée
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Let it sit for at least an hour.
2. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and golden brown.
3. Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in the tomato purée, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Add the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with naan or rice.

Conclusion

«Recipes from Around the World — Cooking Global Dishes at Home: Belarus» by Mustafa Egemen Şener is more than just a cookbook; it’s an exploration of global flavors, a celebration of cultural diversity, and an invitation to discover the world one dish at a time. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this collection will inspire you to expand your horizons and bring the taste of distant lands into your home. With Egemen Şener’s clear instructions and passion for authenticity, you’ll find yourself mastering new techniques and flavors, all while enjoying the comfort of your own kitchen. Bon appétit!