At the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair, children deepen their understanding
of nutrition and the UAE’s rich culinary heritage
The bustling cookery corner at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) is drawing crowds with its ‘Little Emirati Chef’ workshop, where young children are being introduced to the basics of traditional Emirati cooking. The hands-on session not only teaches kids how to prepare Emirati breakfast dishes but also promotes a greater understanding of nutrition and respect for food.
On Wednesday, the team from Skilldeer guided children aged 6 to 12 through the process of making Balaleet, a popular Emirati breakfast. Balaleet is a hearty dish typically served as the first meal of the day in traditional Emirati households. It consists of sweetened vermicelli flavoured with sugar, cardamom, and saffron, topped with a savoury egg omelette.
“We’re demonstrating the steps to make this dish right in front of the children, highlighting key cooking techniques and offering a few helpful tips,” said Intissar Belhadef, one of the instructors from Skilldeer.
The preparation began with roasting vermicelli in butter, which was then boiled to soften. The children received small takeaway boxes filled with the vermicelli, where they could add sugar, cardamom, and saffron, carefully folding each ingredient to enhance the dish’s rich flavours. Meanwhile, an instructor prepared omelettes at the cooking station.
The workshop setup included four tables with four children at each, allowing for an intimate, interactive experience. As the workshop progressed, the room filled with the aroma of this delicious breakfast, drawing even more eager young participants.
The instructors believe cooking is a universal skill. “Cooking is a life skill that’s essential for everyone. These workshops encourage children to explore new foods, broaden their palates, and learn about nutrition, which fosters a deeper respect for food and helps reduce waste,” explained Amal Saprawi, the lead instructor at Skilldeer. “For expatriate children, it’s also a great way to learn about Emirati culture and lifestyle. This dish, for example, provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and natural sugars—perfect for a nourishing meal.”