Born and raised in Alexandria, Egypt, Chef Hassan Mohamed Aly's culinary journey is deeply rooted in his love for the flavors of his homeland. As the Executive Chef at Carmen Restaurant and Lounge in Saudi Arabia, he brings his passion for cooking and his unique perspective to every dish he creates, honoring traditional flavors while adapting them to the modern culinary landscape.
A Dash of His Past
Chef Hassan's love for cooking began in his teenage years, inspired by his mother's delicious fish stew with white rice. This cherished childhood dish has become the foundation for his culinary creations, as he strives to present the flavors he holds dear in ways that resonate with contemporary diners.
With 14 years of culinary experience, Chef Hassan has worked in top hotels and trendy restaurants in Saudi Arabia, such as Marriott Hotel, Etoile De Mer, and Twina. His passion and talent have earned him recognition in various cooking competitions in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, where he has won numerous medals. Chef Hassan's dream is to become one of the most famous cooks in the world and to have his own restaurant, where he can showcase the beauty of traditional Egyptian cuisine in a modern context.
His Signature Dish: Stuffed Mackerel Fish with Pumpkin Tarin and MAGGI® Coconut Spicy Cream
Chef Hassan's signature dish is a testament to his ability to honor traditional ingredients and flavors while presenting them in a way that appeals to modern palates. The Stuffed Mackerel Fish with Pumpkin Tarin and MAGGI® Coconut Spicy Cream showcases his skill in combining familiar elements in innovative ways, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting.
The dish features a mackerel fillet stuffed with a flavorful shrimp mousse, wrapped in cling film and cooked to perfection. The accompanying pumpkin tarin, made with boiled and mashed pumpkin, butter, salt, and garlic powder, adds a sweet and creamy element that complements the savory fish. The MAGGI® Coconut Spicy Cream sauce, made with MAGGI® Coconut Milk Powder, garlic, coriander, and cream, brings a rich and spicy flavor that ties the dish together, offering a modern twist on classic Egyptian flavors.