The UAE News Report
Sharjah: Visitors to the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026) were introduced to the flavours and culinary traditions of the Caribbean during a live cooking demonstration led by Chef Xavier Bramble at the fair’s Cookery Corner.
The session, titled One Pot, A World of Flavour, focused on goat water, a traditional Caribbean stew, giving audiences an opportunity to discover the ingredients, cooking techniques and cultural heritage behind the dish.
Bramble guided visitors through the preparation process, explaining how the selection of meat, seasoning and slow cooking contribute to the stew’s distinctive taste and texture.
Traditionally associated with Montserrat and other parts of the Caribbean, goat water is prepared using goat meat, herbs and spices. The ingredients are cooked slowly to develop a rich broth, with the preparation reflecting culinary knowledge passed down through generations.
Exploring Caribbean culinary traditions
During the demonstration, Bramble highlighted the importance of patience and balancing flavours when preparing the dish.
He also discussed the similarities between traditional recipes from different regions, explaining how food can bring people together despite differences in geography and culture.
According to the chef, many cuisines feature one-pot dishes combining meat, vegetables, herbs and spices. However, each culinary tradition maintains its own identity through locally available ingredients, preparation techniques and cultural influences.
The demonstration offered visitors an insight into Caribbean cooking while highlighting the role of food in preserving traditions and connecting communities.
Visitors discover new flavours
For some attendees, the session was their first opportunity to learn about Caribbean cuisine.
Fatima Marioud, who attended the demonstration, said she had not previously explored Caribbean food and found the experience informative.
“I had never really explored Caribbean food before, so this was a completely new experience for me. It was interesting to learn about the ingredients, the preparation, and the cultural background of the dish. I am leaving with a new appreciation for a cuisine I had not encountered before,” she said.
The interactive session allowed visitors to observe the preparation of a traditional dish while learning about the cultural significance of its ingredients and cooking methods.
Cookery Corner adds global flavours to SIBF 2026
The cooking demonstration formed part of the Sharjah International Book Fair’s Cookery Corner programme, which introduces audiences to culinary traditions from different parts of the world.
The programme complements the fair’s literary and cultural activities by exploring how food, heritage and storytelling contribute to cultural exchange.
Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, the 45th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair is being held at Expo Centre Sharjah from 4 to 15 November 2026.
Under the theme Made of Stories, the event features 1,500 cultural, creative and artistic activities, bringing together publishers, exhibitors and visitors from around the world.
Oman is participating as the Guest of Honour at this year’s edition.
Through activities such as the Cookery Corner, the fair provides visitors with opportunities to explore international traditions beyond books, highlighting connections between literature, culture, heritage and cuisine.
