Simply West African: Easy, Joyful Recipes for Every Kitchen by Pierre Thiam with Lisa Katayama

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Embark on a culinary journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds with the vibrant flavors of West Africa.  In this episode, Chef Pierre Thiam joins us on the couch to discuss his new cookbook, “Simply West African: Easy, Joyful Recipes for Every Kitchen.”  Chef Pierre takes us on a gastronomical adventure, introducing us to the diverse and rich culinary traditions of West Africa, how he’s blended familiar dishes with a unique West African twist, all seasoned with the philosophy of “Teranga” – the Senegalese value of hospitality and sharing.

Chef Pierre and I continue our discussion, emphasizing the importance of cooking with the senses and understanding the cultural connections behind the ingredients we use.  He also helps us build our West African kitchen by sharing the essential tools and ingredients we should have in our pantry.  This episode is not just an exploration of West African cuisine but a culinary journey that allows you to appreciate and understand the culture behind it.  So, tune in, and let’s bring the comforting and irresistible flavors of West Africa into your kitchen!

Simply West African by Pierre Thiam with Lisa Katayama on Amazon or Bookshop.

Get a copy of Simply West African by Pierre Thiam with Lisa Katayama on Amazon or Bookshop.

BOOKS MENTIONED DURING THE SHOW

BOOKS READ, LOVED, AND WOULD NOW RECOMMEND

• Miles by Miles Davis (Amazon or Bookshop)
• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (Amazon or Bookshop)
• Meditations by Marcus Aurelius (Amazon or Bookshop)

BOOKS REREAD

• The Holy Qur’an (Amazon or Bookshop)

CHILDHOOD FAVORITES

• Les Contes d’Amadou Koumba, translated from the French to Tales of Amadou Koumba (Amazon)

BOOKS ON THE TBR

• God Help the Child by Toni Morrison (Amazon or Bookshop)

ABOUT PIERRE THIAM

Chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author Pierre Thiam was raised in Dakar, Senegal. He is the executive chef of the award-winning restaurant Nok by Alara in Lagos, Nigeria and the Signature Chef of the five-star Pullman Hotel in Dakar, Senegal as well as the executive chef and co-owner of Teranga, in New York City. He lives in El Cerrito, California with his wife Lisa, their daughter Na’ia, and dog Malcolm. Lisa Katayama is a Tokyo-born writer who has been featured in Wired and The New York Times Magazine and is the author of Urawaza: Secret Everyday Tips and Tricks from Japan.

Get a copy of Simply West African by Pierre Thiam with Lisa Katayama on Amazon or Bookshop.

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