Kurdish culture spans across the mountainous regions of several modern states, including parts of Turkey, Syria, Iran and Iraq. This vast geographic region, known as Kurdistan, shares common language, rich traditions, vibrant celebrations, and a distinctive cuisine which roots Kurdish people around the world though a strong sense of identity, community, and connection to a majestic landscape. Tonight Lara Haris prepares a traditional Kurdish meal for the Depanneur, an invitation to discover and savour a cuisine rarely seen in Toronto.
In Lara’s words:
“Back home in Kurdistan, big family gatherings are a way of life. Almost every week, friends and relatives come together around one table to share a huge homemade feast filled with everyone’s favourite dishes. Food has always been our way of connecting, celebrating, and showing love.
Since moving to Canada, I’ve really missed those big gatherings, so I’ve made it a tradition to recreate them here by cooking for my friends and bringing people together around the table. Food is my love language, and nothing makes me happier than watching people enjoy a meal I’ve made.
I’m very passionate about introducing Kurdish cuisine, especially dishes from Slemani (a regoinal capital in Northeaster Iraq) to new people. Kurdish food isn’t very well known in Toronto, and it can be almost impossible to find truly authentic flavours. That’s why I’m so excited for this event. I can’t wait for everyone to experience these dishes, try something new, and hopefully fall in love with Kurdish cuisine.”
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In keeping with Kurdish tradition and a cultural emphasis on sharing and generosity, all dishes are served together with soft pita for scooping, dipping, and passing around the table, along with fresh greens, herbs, and a chilled yogurt drink.
Shfta
Tender, aromatic ground beef kebabs (grilled or fried patties), seasoned with parsley, garlic, onion, tomato, pepper, paprika, cumin, and coriander.
Tapsi
A beloved home-style tray bake of layered eggplant, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce until everything becomes soft, savoury, and deeply comforting.
Yapraxy Galamew
These Kurdish grape leaf *dolma* (stuffed rolls) are a dish that signals spring and celebration. Grape leaves are wrapped around rice and fragrant herbs, gently cooked until soft and deeply flavourful, then topped with fava beans.
Fresh Herbs & Greens
An essential part of the Kurdish table. Crisp herbs and vegetables that add brightness and contrast, meant to be enjoyed with every dish. It’s a selection of whatever is fresh and in season, like mint, cilantro, parsley, along with green onions and sliced lemons.
Ayran
An ice-cold yogurt beverage with mint; the essential drink that refreshes the palate, and beautifully complements and elevates the flavours of the dishes.
Turta
A comforting sweet treat made with layers of biscuits covered in rich cocoa pudding and finished with a generous topping of coconut flakes.
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Lara Haris is currently a student at the University of Toronto studying Biology and Psychology. Outside of school, painting and cooking are her two favourite creative outlets.
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Every weekend The Depanneur invites a guest chef to host a fun, family-style dinner party. @thedepanneur
