Salma Ahmed’s journey from being a psychologist to a celebrated chef, recipe developer, and F&B consultant is nothing short of extraordinary. Her story is a testament to the power of passion and resilience, inspiring many who dream of finding their true calling.
Salma’s culinary path began with cherished childhood memories. Growing up, she often woke to the aroma of her mother’s beautifully braised oxtail filling their home. Accompanied by the soulful music of Kazem El Saher, Magda El Roumy, and Fairouz, those mornings left an indelible mark on her heart. “Cooking is more than just presenting a dish—it’s about creating an experience,” Salma recalls.
Salma Ahmed’s: A Unique Blend of Psychology and Culinary Arts
Before stepping into the culinary world, Salma spent years studying psychology, exploring the depths of human behavior. She later realized the profound connection between her two passions. Both psychology and cooking, she says, revolve around creating meaningful experiences that resonate with people on a deeper level.
For the past 13 years, Salma has honed her craft as a chef, recipe developer, and food consultant. Her understanding of human behavior adds a unique dimension to her work, whether she’s crafting a menu, working as a private chef, or leading culinary operations. “At its core, my work is about self-expression and providing diners with moments they’ll cherish,” she explains.
Mastering the Art of Ingredients
One of Salma’s key philosophies is understanding ingredients at their core. She views each element as having a purpose and treats them with respect to create dishes that leave lasting impressions.
“Every ingredient has a story to tell,” she says. “When treated with intention, they come together to create something extraordinary.” This approach has helped her elevate her creations, turning them into more than just food on a plate.
The Challenges of the Culinary World
Salma acknowledges that the culinary industry is not for the faint-hearted. The mental and physical demands of the job can take a toll. However, her genuine love for the craft keeps her going.
“To truly thrive, it’s essential to work in an environment that inspires and supports creativity,” she advises. Salma also emphasizes the importance of taking moments to recharge and nurture oneself to stay inspired.
A New Chapter in Dubai
Recently, Salma relocated to Dubai from her home country, Egypt. This move marked a significant turning point in her career. She now focuses on her roles as an F&B consultant, head of culinary, and menu engineer.
A few years ago, she took her first steps into the vibrant city of Dubai and the unfamiliar world of media—a realm that felt completely alien to her at the time. Yet, this experience offered a fresh lens through which she learned to critique dishes as a unique form of self-expression. This unexpected journey turned out to be a crucial part of her self-development, adding a vital piece to her puzzle of growth. It shaped her into the individual she proudly is today.
Salma’s work involves helping brands develop new concepts or refine existing ones. The challenge of balancing market trends, audience expectations, and profitability excites her. “It’s like solving a puzzle where every piece matters,” she shares.
Her innovative approach has earned her a reputation as a trusted expert in the field, and she continues to push boundaries to create unforgettable dining experiences.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Salma dreams of launching her own brand. Her vision is clear: to make food more than a fleeting pleasure but a lasting memory. Whether through private dining or consulting, she strives to provide moments that people can cherish with loved ones or savor alone.
For Salma, the culinary journey is not just about the destination but about constant growth and learning. “Never get too comfortable and always stay curious,” she advises aspiring chefs.
Advice for Aspiring Chefs
Salma encourages newcomers to find their unique passion within the culinary world. Her mantra is to focus on personal growth rather than comparing oneself to others. She believes that staying motivated and embracing challenges are keys to long-term success.
“Cooking is not just a skill; it’s an art form that requires dedication and love,” she says.
Staying Connected with Salma
Salma’s journey continues to inspire many across the globe. Through her Instagram handle, she shares glimpses of her life, recipes, and the stories behind her creations.
Her dedication to her craft and her ability to merge psychology with culinary artistry make her a true trailblazer in the field. Salma Ahmed is not just creating food; she’s crafting memories, one dish at a time.
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