Setting a Place for Us

“Setting a Place for Us is more than a cookbook; it’s a journey through eight countries’ histories and tells the real stories of displaced people. Somali-American chef Hawa Hassan shines light on the cultural bonds in regions that have endured colonization and violence.”—Epicurious“Hawa has a beautiful way of weaving together food and emotions through stories, and it shows in Setting a Place for Us. This is far more than a cookbook; it is a journey of healing against a backdrop of unfathomable loss and chaos. I have learned and felt something new with each chapter, between the essential historical context of each place and the thoughtful care Hawa has put into capturing each recipe. The love and hope carried within this book are palpable, and I know I’ll be returning to it time and time again.”—Jenny Dorsey, chef, educator, and executive director of Studio ATAO“Displacement is not a choice—no one chooses to leave their lands. They’re kicked out from them, or they’ve run away from death and injustice. Even when displaced peoples are far from their homes, the one place to gather and find community is around the table. In Setting a Place for Us, Hawa beautifully pays tribute to these people, their stories, and the recipes that bring them together.”—Kamal Mouzawak, founder of Souk El Tayeb“I love Setting a Place for Us! It made me cry, it made me laugh, and it reminded me of the magical importance of food in bringing home to our lives even in exile. This book brings to life senses and emotions to the experience of displacement, wars, and resilience indeed.”—Zainab Salbi, author and founder of Women for Women International and Daughters for Earth

Hawa Hassan is James Beard Award winner, host of Food Network’s Hawa at Home and Cooking Channel’s Spice of Life, acclaimed author of In Bibi’s Kitchen, and founder and CEO of Basbaas, makers of African-inspired sauces and condiments. An acclaimed speaker and presenter, Hawa has been covered by major international media including The New York Times, Vogue, Vanity Fair, The Wall Street Journal, Bon Appetit, The Seattle Times, Condé Nast Traveler, Thrillist, Ebony, The Ringer, San Francisco Chronicle, Forbes, The Washington Post, and New York Magazine.