ISLAMABAD: Iman Al Haj Ali, a resilient Palestinian woman, has been making a significant impact on Karachi’s culinary landscape by introducing the rich flavors of Palestinian sweet dishes to the city for the past year. Collaborating with her daughters, Iman aims not only to satisfy sweet cravings but also to offer the people of Karachi a cultural experience through her small online bakery.
Iman’s journey started when her Pakistani husband, who frequently travels for work, brought her to Karachi. Fueled by her passion for Palestinian cuisine and a desire to share her cultural heritage, she initiated a venture, creating a small online bakery based in her home.
An IT engineer and seasoned teacher, Iman expressed that her decision to venture into the culinary world was driven by a desire to keep busy and create meaningful moments with her daughters, Laila and Israh, both business graduates. “What better way to put those business degrees to good use?” Iman remarked, emphasizing the journey’s significance in fostering learning, bonding, and the joy of creating together.
Iman, who relocated to Pakistan after marrying a Pakistani citizen, shares her home with her stepdaughter Israh. Together, the trio has spiced up Karachi’s culinary scene with Palestinian delights such as Kunafa, Qatayef, and Basbousa.
“Qatayef is a sweet treat, especially prepared in Palestine, particularly during Ramadan,” Iman shared. The bakery, launched last Ramadan, has successfully incorporated these cultural delicacies into its menu, catering to Karachiites’ fondness for Kunafa, a renowned dish among popular Arab cuisines worldwide.
Palestinian Sweet Dishes in Karachi
Iman’s roots in Palestine are deeply woven into the fabric of her family’s stories. While not born on Palestinian soil, her connection to the land remains profound, a testament to the enduring power of family ties and heritage. Despite the challenges her family faced after the events of the second Nakba in 1967, Iman expressed gratitude to the people of Pakistan for raising their voices in support of Palestinians.
In the kitchen, Iman’s daughters, Laila and Israh, contribute their culinary skills, joined by a trained employee. Laila highlighted the importance of educating people in Karachi about Palestinian culture, dispelling Israeli claims and emphasizing the enduring love between Pakistan and Palestine.
“There has always been a relationship of love between Pakistan and Palestine. Pakistanis feel the pain of Palestinians and empathize with the horrifying events that unfold. The support we have received from the people of Karachi, we are genuinely thankful for it. It is true, their support boosts our motivation to work even harder,” Laila said with a smile on her face.
