THREE CHEFS IN THE KITCHEN
Chef Venus sits down with Chefs Sima Kashani and Jaleh Vida Shayan, asking what makes them so determined to help PCC with its missions of promoting Iranian culture.
Venus: So we have just finished our second live cooking show, and I know we are all tired, but I sense a deep satisfaction and we are so proud of being able to support PCC with its cultural programs and activities during the pandemic.
Sima: Indeed, we are definitely tired, but happy we could share our Persian cooking skills.
Jaleh: Showcasing Kofteh Tabrizi, a signature Persian dish, and the tasty Garlic Baguette was good fun.
Venus: Since we will be hosting more cooking shows, let’s share a bit of who we are with the PCC community. I have been involved with PCC for years as a board member and a friend who is ready to tackle any project and help at all times, but you have joined more recently. What brought you to us?
Sima: I have always been active in charity work locally, with UCSD Medical Center, ChildhelpUSA, CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), and during this pandemic, Jaleh and I sewed and donated thousands of masks to healthcare professionals throughout San Diego County. So when you asked us to join you to create an original cooking program to help PCC, it was a welcome invitation and we were so happy to do it.
Jaleh: It is true, I always support local programs, such as California Gymnastics, and was a Candy Striper when that was vogue – with the pandemic, it was easy to jump in and use our sewing skills to make masks. Joining you on the cooking shows is another way to help a very well-deserved organization to promote our culture even in the pandemic. It has been a very important year to offer talents to inspire others to join, and give them a reason to smile.
Venus: Oh yes, smiles and good food go together so well and are very needed in these times! I believe from the first time a mother holds her baby in her arms to feed, we associate food with love, protection, and comfort.
Jaleh: Food in our culture is much more than a source to satisfy hunger. Food is a strong family tie as the family gathers together to eat. Food is a way of showing respect when we cook for our guests and kindness when we cook to share and feed others.
Sima: Iranians are known for being the most hospitable people. They welcome everyone to their home and make the food as festive as possible.
Venus: I think it is important for our children and grandchildren to learn about our beautiful culture and the delicious food associated with it. The PCC is for all ages, and we want young members of our community to join us and learn about Persian cooking and our culture. Any ideas on how to inspire the youngest out there?
Sima: When I first married, I really didn’t know how to cook anything well. Finding cookbooks or TV shows on Persian cuisine was nonexistent in those days. We are blessed to have PCC’s support on these shows online to allow anyone to watch and learn.
Jaleh: The best Persian cooking is in the home, and these shows are right in the home with regular pots and pans and simple ingredients. It can be fun if family members with their youngsters join us to have a fun Persian cooking experience.
Venus: That’s perfect, let’s work on that! I look forward to our next broadcast with delight, thank you for being part of Three Chefs in the Kitchen…
Join Three Chefs in the Kitchen on May 8, 2021, at 11 am PDT, preparing the Persian dish tachin and other wonders made with yogurt.
Venus Safaie, Event Planner & Coordinator
Khonche Organization
M (858) 829-1460
