DUBAI: Italian chef Antoine Di Fazio, known for his championship-winning pizza-making prowess, is taking on an altogether unexpected challenge in Saudi Arabia.
On Tuesday night, the chef will present Irish brand Silver Hill’s roasted duck in two Middle Eastern-style dishes with an experimental twist.
Diners at Levantine Restaurant, DoubleTree by Hilton in Riyadh, will be treated to the chef’s thoughtful take on food that bridges cultures.
He told Arab News ahead of the event: “For sure, duck is not a common ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, but things are changing quickly.
“Arabs are traveling more, discovering new tastes, and are eager to experience different cuisines. As an executive chef, I always strive to innovate and create fusion concepts.”
“Saudi Arabia itself offers immense inspiration, with so many traditional dishes to learn from. Over my decades here, I’ve had the privilege of learning from each region.”
Di Fazio has opted to create two traditional Saudi dishes with a twist. First, guests will be treated to Jareesh or cracked wheat. It is a staple grain in the Kingdom and the wider Middle East.
The chef and his team will cook the grains until tender with ghee, caramelized onion, Arabic spices, and dried lemon. Instead of chicken, Silver Hill duck will be featured, which “adds a richer, more distinctive flavor,” said Di Fazio.
Next up, Saleeg will be made with Egyptian rice, milk, butter, olive oil, mastika (Arabic gum), and a blend of spices. Traditionally served with chicken, this time around duck will enhance the creaminess of the dish.
“Technically, yes, it can be challenging, especially as an Italian chef, to balance flavors and reach the right taste,” he explained of the cooking process.
“But after years of studying traditional food and cooking in Saudi Arabia, I’ve adapted. I also collaborate closely with a committee of Arabic chefs, who I often turn to for advice and refinement.”
Di Fazio, who placed fifth at the Pizza World Cup in Napoli in 2011 and won the Italian Pizza Cup in 2012, is also a special advisor to Italian chefs through the World Association of Chef’s Societies.
“There were many challenges at the start, especially when I first introduced Italian food here. People were less familiar with authentic Italian cuisine. But with patience, consistency, and passion, I gained great joy in showing Middle Eastern diners the richness of true Italian flavors,” he said.
“Italian cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition and heritage, with each region offering unique dishes and stories — just like in Saudi Arabia. There is so much more to discover beyond the basics,” he added.
