Chef Ali will teach delicious, authentic Kurdish dishes followed by a sit-down meal.
Kurdish cuisine originates from Kurdistan, a mountainous region that spans across Iraq, Iran, Turkey, and Syria, and reflects the land’s rich diversity and deep-rooted traditions. It is known for its use of fresh herbs, vegetables, and warm, aromatic spices that bring depth and comfort to every meal.
In chef Ali’s class, you will learn to make traditional dishes such as Bamya (okra stew) and Kibbeh (stuffed rice with lamb). These recipes are often shared at family gatherings and celebrations, showcasing the community spirit and hospitality at the heart of Kurdish life.”
A message from chef Ali:
“Hi, my name is Ali and I come from Kurdistan, Iraq. I grew up in a beautiful city called Sulaymaniyah. I was studying Geography at university, but in 2017 I needed to leave because it was dangerous for me to stay. When I came to Bristol in 2020 I felt relief because the people were so friendly and supportive.
I learnt to cook from my grandmother and stepmother when I was 15. They said you must look after yourself when you are at University. I discovered I loved cooking. The first things I cooked were rice and aubergine stew to go with lamb.
When I lived in Manchester with 4 friends, I did all the cooking. In Bristol I worked in a Kurdish restaurant in Old Market.
I love sharing my recipes from my country with people from different countries. Kurdish cuisine uses a lot of fresh ingredients, herbs and spices. It is very tasty but not too spicy. So I am excited to have joined Migrateful and can’t wait to share my story and culture.”
ON THE MENU (subject to change)
Bamya (Okra Soup) | Vegan; Mustard
Kibbeh (Rice Stuffed with Lamb) | Meat (Lamb); Mustard
Lahana Maza (Couscous Salad) | Vegan; Gluten (Wheat)
This menu contains meat (lamb) but is vegetarian-friendly (five out of six dishes are meat-free). Allergens include: mustard, gluten, milk, tree nuts.
Please note that we cannot substitute ingredients to accommodate dietary needs. Only book into classes that suit your requirements. Allergen information for this class will be updated closer to the date.
Join Ali’s cookery class in Bristol to learn to make authentic Kurdish Iraqi dishes and celebrate the flavours and stories brought to the UK through food.