Culinary journalist Raghenie Bhawanie guides Parool readers through the toko: ‘I’m constantly discovering new things’
Journalist Raghenie Bhawanie has launched a new column in Het Parool focusing on the cultural and culinary significance of local toko shops in Amsterdam. By sharing personal experiences and insights into specialized ingredients, she aims to encourage readers to explore diverse food cultures and connect with their neighbors.
Culinary journalist Raghenie Bhawanie, who has lived in Amsterdam for two decades, is sharing her expertise on the city's diverse toko landscape through a new column in Het Parool. Bhawanie highlights local favorites like Tropic 2000 in Amsterdam's Oud-West, where she appreciates the personal connections and specific ingredients like tayerblad. Her goal is to move beyond mere recipes, using these neighborhood shops as a bridge to foster connection and curiosity between different cultures and residents within the city.
Currently researching for her upcoming cookbook on the origins of roti, Bhawanie finds inspiration in exploring various international markets, including Indian shops where she uncovers new ingredients like specific bitter melon varieties. Through her writing, she encourages readers to engage more deeply with their local environment and the people around them. By demystifying the products found in specialized grocery stores, she hopes to spark a greater interest in the culinary traditions that bring the community together.
Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
