Chef Saeed AlHearki: Redefining Vegetarian Cuisine with His Mediterranean Twist
Chef Saeed AlHearki: Redefining Vegetarian Cuisine with His Mediterranean Twist

As Vegetarian dishes are a simmering trend in the culinary scene, it's only fitting to spotlight a chef who specializes in vegetarian cuisine. Enter Chef Saeed AlHearki, a culinary artist known for adding an extra touch of zest to his creations. His dishes are far from ordinary; with his signature dish and impressive culinary background, Chef Saeed demonstrates that vegetarian food can be just as exciting and flavorful as any other cuisine.

Chef Saeed AlHearki

A Glimpse into His Past

With 26 years of experience in the culinary field, Chef Saeed's journey began in Damascus at prestigious establishments like the 5-star Cham Hotels group and Sheraton Damascus. He later worked at renowned places such as Club de Oriental, Four Seasons Group, Maia Resort, and the Royal Clock Tower by Fairmont. Having traveled to nearly 41 countries, Chef Saeed has enriched his global culinary perspective by exploring diverse cuisines, beverages, and new flavors. Currently, he is the Executive Chef at Batteel (Café, Catering, and Bakery) and Production Manager.

His Signature Dish: Stuffed Yellow Zucchini

Drawing inspiration from his Syrian background where vegetarian appetizers, also known as ‘Mezza,’ are celebrated as a delicacy, Chef Saeed has crafted his signature dish, "Stuffed Yellow Zucchini." This dish beautifully blends exotic and Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist.

The dish features thin strips of yellow zucchini, blanched and rolled around a filling of goat cheese, mixed herbs, roasted garlic, and crushed pink peppercorns, enclosing a layer of fresh mango within. Steamed to perfection, these rolls are served with a saffron-infused dressing, creating a delightful balance of flavors that promises a memorable dining experience.

Stuffed Yellow Zucchini (Serves 4)

Ingredients
60g Yellow Zucchini 20g Fresh Mango
40g Goat Cheese 2g Chopped Herbs
1g Handful Micro Leaves 1g Pink Pepper
15g Garlic

Saffron-infused Dressing

Ingredients
1g Saffron 10ml Olive Oil
5ml Lemon Juice 2g Lemon Zest
2g Mustard 1g Edible Flowers
1g Mixed Leaves

Cooking Temperature

Information
Medium (145-150°C)
Method
1. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips, approximately 3 millimeters thick.
2. Blanch the zucchini in hot water, then immediately transfer it to cold water to cool.
3. Prepare the filling by combining goat cheese, mixed herbs, roasted garlic, and crushed pink peppercorns.
4. Spread the mixture onto the zucchini strips and roll them up, enclosing a layer of fresh mango inside.
5. Steam the rolled zucchini for 10 minutes.
6. In the meantime, prepare the dressing by infusing saffron in warm water and then strain it.
7. Mix the saffron-infused water with mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
8. To serve, arrange the rolled zucchini on a plate and drizzle with the prepared saffron dressing. Garnish as desired.