Prepare for an episode filled with warmth, laughter, and mouthwatering flavors as Tante Hala Sayah, the lively and passionate chef, shares her journey and her love for Lebanese cuisine. This episode of Cooking Unscripted highlights the magic of Shish Barak Ravioli, a dish that combines tradition, heart, and a whole lot of flavor.

From Home Cook to Culinary Visionary

Tante Hala’s story is one of dedication and love for the art of cooking. What began as a simple joy of cooking for friends and family blossomed into a successful catering business and restaurant in Dubai. Her journey wasn’t just about making food ratherit was about creating experiences and bringing people together through her dishes.

Hala shares the ups and downs of her career, from experimenting with recipes in her kitchen to managing the challenges of catering large-scale events. Anthony Rahayel, with his usual charm and keen interest, dives deeper, asking about the moments that shaped her path. Together, they explore the essence of preserving culinary traditions while adapting to the modern culinary world.

The Star of the Show: Shish Barak Ravioli

Have you heard of it before? Hala takes us step by step through the preparation of Shish Barak, a Lebanese classic that brings a new twist to traditional flavors:

• Crafting the Dough: Hala reveals her secret to the perfect no-yeast dough, enriched with butter and milk for added richness. She demonstrates the technique with her signature humor, making even the trickiest steps feel approachable.
• A Flavorful Filling: The meat filling, complemented by toasted pine nuts and a medley of spices, gets Anthony’s stamp of approval as he can’t resist sneaking a taste during the process.
• Luxurious Yogurt Sauce: Hala shares her expert tips for creating a creamy, smooth sauce, including cooling the yogurt before adding starch to maintain the perfect consistency.
• Golden Vermicelli Rice: With Anthony playfully poking fun at her attention to detail, Hala explains how to toast vermicelli to golden perfection before blending it with rice for a comforting accompaniment.

The Soul of Lebanese Hospitality

Throughout the episode, the conversation shifts from technical tips to the heart of Lebanese cooking: hospitality and generosity. Hala shares how feeding others has always been her way of expressing love and how the authenticity of her food has made her customers feel at home.

Anthony’s engagements with questions and infectious energy bring out Hala’s funniest and most touching stories, from her mother’s influence on her cooking style to the humorous challenges of catering events. Their harmony in the episode  is filled with laughter, creating a dynamic that feels like you’re sitting at the kitchen table with old friends.

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This isn’t just about a recipe it’s about a celebration of Lebanese culture, family, and the joy of cooking from the heart. Hala’s wisdom, paired with Anthony’s curiosity and playful banter, makes for an unforgettable episode.

Hala’s message is clear: cooking isn’t about perfection; it’s about passion, love, and making memories. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this episode will inspire you to step into the kitchen with confidence and creativity.

Don’t miss this heartwarming episode of Cooking Unscripted. From the vibrant stories to the irresistible aroma of Shish Barak, it’s a feast for the senses—and one you won’t want to miss!