A taste of Eastern promise

IN RECENT years I have become increasingly fascinated by the Muslim culture and am eager to learn more about the way of life and of course the food. I have enjoyed delicious Syrian and Lebanese food in several London restaurants, most notably Le Mignon in Delancey Street and Yalla Yalla Restaurant just off Brewer Street in Soho.

Syria is an intriguing country located between Lebanon, Turkey and Iraq. Almost 90% of the population are Muslim and about 10% Christian yet Syria is a secular state with no official religion.

Agriculture accounts for 60% Syria’s (GNP) Gross National Product and is the mainstay of the economy. About 65% of the country is not considered arable, yet the country is self-sufficient in food with lots of lovely fresh vegetables grown on its rich productive steppe land. An enviable situation and a not insignificant consideration in a country where sanctions are a perennial possibility.