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Historic Achievement for a Culinary Narrative

In a remarkable display of talent and cultural representation, Nadeem Mansour, a Jordanian-Canadian author, captured widespread acclaim at the recent Gourmand World Cookbook Awards held in Lisbon, Portugal. His self-published memoir, Thuraya: Recipes from Our Family's Kitchen in Jordan, received four prestigious awards, standing out as a testament to the richness of Jordanian culinary traditions.

Recognized as the best in the world for categories including Best Mediterranean Book and Best Video Presentation, Thuraya also clinched the second position for Best Family Book as well as the coveted title of Best Cookbook in the World. This historic achievement not only highlights Mansour's culinary expertise but also marks a significant milestone, being the first English-language cookbook from Jordan to be honored at such a scale.

A Culinary Story of Heritage and Belonging

Thuraya features an array of over 120 authentic Levantine recipes, reflecting the vibrant flavors and traditions of the Middle East. Inspired by the food memories of his mother's kitchen, Mansour's narrative intertwines personal stories with culinary history, creating a bridge that connects his heritage with contemporary Canadian life. "This book began as a way to preserve the dishes my mother lovingly prepared, but it has evolved into a much larger narrative about cultural identity and belonging," he shared during the award ceremony.

The beauty of Thuraya lies not only in its recipes but also in its underlying message of resilience and the immigrant experience. As Mansour described it, the culinary creations within its pages symbolize the rich tapestry of stories that define Canada's multicultural landscape. Each recipe serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the power of food to unite people across diverse backgrounds.

Preserving Culinary Traditions

Named after his mother, Thuraya encapsulates deep familial love and heritage, underscoring the inherently communal aspects of cooking and sharing meals. The book showcases a variety of delectable dishes, including vibrant mezze, heartwarming stews, and indulgent desserts, all beautifully photographed to capture the essence of Middle Eastern hospitality.

Mansour's mother reflected on this recognition, saying, "Our family recipes carry the essence of who we are. Food has a unique ability to bring people together and connect us all—no matter where we come from." This sentiment resonates with many who cherish their culinary roots and strive to pass them down through generations.

A Launch to Remember

Following its successful launch in Amman, Thuraya was introduced to Canadian audiences during an event at the Royal Ontario Museum in February 2025. Part of the ROM Talks series, this event aimed to explore the book’s narrative and illuminate the rich cultural traditions of the Middle East. Attendees experienced firsthand the heritage objects from the museum's Widad Kawar Collection of Arab Dress and Heritage, further enhancing the connection between food and culture.

As the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards name Thuraya among the best, it stands out not only as a culinary guide but also as an artistic expression of the immigrant story that enriches Canadian society. With its alluring recipes and heartfelt narratives, Thuraya serves as a delicious reminder of the bonds forged through family history and the cultural narratives that shape our identities.

For those interested in delving into this delightful exploration of flavors, Thuraya is available for purchase at thurayadelights.com, where readers can also view the award-winning promotional video that encapsulates its spirit and culinary treasures.