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'Food lovers are my favourite kind of high-profile personalities': Muhannad Albkeirat

The chef de cuisine at Aloft City Centre Deira lets is into his kitchen

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Your best food-related experience.
I had the best food-related experience in Los Angeles at a Mexican restaurant. I don't remember its name, but I remember how it made me feel. Everything impressed me - from the taste and ambience to the small details that always make a lot of difference.
Who do you admire most in the culinary world, and why?
The one and only Chef Alain Ducasse. A French multi-Michelin chef, he has what seems to be the ultimate passion for the culinary world, and is someone who mastered all aspects of his vocation. He is also one of only two chefs to hold 21 Michelin stars throughout his career. I was utterly proud to have worked for his concept in Dubai a few years ago.
Your favourite culinary destination, and why?
The city of love, France. Not only is it rich with heritage and history, but it also has the best restaurants in the world.
How often do you eat out? What's your favourite place around town?
Due to my busy schedule, I rarely eat out. I enjoy treating myself with a self-made meal. However, when I do step out, I enjoy going to a restaurant called Bu Qtair; it's an authentic local seafood restaurant in Dubai.
If you could cook for a high-profile personality, who would it be and what would you serve them?
Food lovers are my favourite kind of high-profile personalities. But if I had to choose, it would definitely be King Abdullah II of Jordan. He is known for his love for food and his taste. I would serve him my favourite beef tenderloin, wilted baby spinach topped with a slice of foie gras and a neutral sauce.
You're asked to invent an unusual dish - what would it be?
In the culinary world, there is always room for creation and invention. I would create something new, with a different texture and taste that you can sense from the first bite. Something like a beef kofta minced with foie gras and finished with a homemade fig syrup.
One ingredient/dish you can't stand, and why.
Every ingredient can add its own special taste to a dish, but I would say dried fish is the one I can't stand, because of the strong smell!
After cooking all day, do you cook for yourself at home too?
I love cooking, but I love spending time with my family more. Therefore, whenever I am home, I make sure that nothing takes away my quality time with my kids and wife - not even cooking.
Favourite comfort food?
My favourite comfort food is French cuisine: specifically, pan-seared fillet of seabass served with basil-crushed potatoes, confit artichoke and sauce vierge.
If you could choose a last meal, what would it be?
A deliciously tender piece of meat that has generous flavours at once.
Where can we find you, when not in the kitchen?
With family - the best place to be!
- Staff Reporter