导语：Dialogue with Mr Rajabali Iskandarov---- the Chef in the Embassy
“I am eager to continue representing Azerbaijan and contributing to the vibrant cultural exchange between our two nations.”
He is very young and has an outgoing personality. He comes from Azerbaijan and works as a chef at the embassy. He has participated in many Chinese television interviews， his name is Rajabali Iskandarov
---Dialogue withMr Rajabali Iskandarov--- The Chef in the Embassy
DIPLOMATMAGAZINE(D): Please introduce yourself,Where are you from and when did you come to Beijing?
Rajabali Iskandarov：My name is Rajabali Iskandarov, and I was born in Baku, Azerbaijan in 1993. I come from a family of four brothers, and I am the youngest among them. Growing up, my childhood was filled with vibrant experiences.
In 1999, I began my education, where I actively participated in various sports, particularly judo sports, which piqued my interest.
Upon completing high school in 2010, I embarked on my military service, serving my country diligently until 2011. Following my military service, I pursued my passion for culinary arts and enrolled in Vocational School No. 5 in Baku. Over the course of three years, I honed my skills and knowledge in the culinary field.
In June 2019, I arrived in Beijing, China, driven by my aspirations to further expand my culinary expertise and explore new horizons in the vibrant culinary scene of this beautiful city.
D:When did you start to like cooking?
Rajabali Iskandarov：I developed a passion for cooking at a young age, thanks to the influence of my family. The love for culinary arts runs deep within my roots. I took my first steps into the professional kitchen when I was just 17 years old, starting as an assistant cook. It was an exhilarating experience that allowed me to immerse myself in the world of flavors and techniques. Over time, my dedication and commitment led me to progress to the main kitchen, where I further honed my skills and expanded my culinary repertoire.
D:Please tell us about your cooking story, such as your best cooking food, your cooking experience and so on.
Rajabali Iskandarov：My cooking journey has been a remarkable one, filled with enriching experiences and a deep appreciation for the culinary arts. After successfully completing my culinary education in Baku, I embarked on a new adventure by traveling to Turkey. There, I had the privilege of working alongside talented and experienced professional chefs for a span of five years. This invaluable opportunity allowed me to expand my culinary knowledge, learn new techniques, and gain insights into diverse culinary traditions.
While I thoroughly enjoy preparing a wide range of dishes, my true passion lies in showcasing the flavors and aromas of Azerbaijani cuisine. The culinary heritage of Azerbaijan is rich and diverse, and I take immense pride in crafting traditional dishes that represent the essence of my culture. Some of my best creations include Dovgha, a delightful Azerbaijani yogurt soup with herbs, Shah Plov, a fragrant and flavorful rice dish, and Dushbara soup, which features delectable dumplings.
Each dish I prepare carries a piece of my culinary story and reflects my dedication to providing a memorable dining experience for all.
D:What do you think of Chinese food and cooking skills? Have you met any Chinese culinary masters?
Rajabali Iskandarov:I have had the pleasure of tasting and appreciating a wide variety of Chinese dishes, and I must say that I enjoy most of them. Some of my favorites include 北京烤鸭 (Peking Duck), 牛肉面 (Beef Noodles), 羊蜜子火锅 (Lamb Skewers), and 北京小吃 (Beijing Street Food). Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, thanks to its rich history and regional variations. It's fascinating to witness how each season brings forth its own unique culinary offerings. Additionally, tea varieties hold a special place within Chinese cuisine, adding to its depth and complexity.
During my time in China, I had the opportunity to conduct masterclasses in two chain restaurants. In one establishment, I gave masterclass lessons on Azerbaijani cuisine to the renowned Chinese chef, Xu Long.
It was an enriching experience to share the flavors and techniques of Azerbaijani cuisine with such a talented chef. In the other restaurant, I had the privilege of conducting masterclasses on Turkish cuisine, where I shared my knowledge and expertise with Chef Li Xiao Peng.
These experiences allowed for a beautiful cultural exchange, bridging the culinary traditions of Azerbaijan and Turkey with Chinese gastronomy.
D:Please introduce your life in Beijing.
Rajabali Iskandarov：Four years ago, I embarked on my life in Beijing with a mixture of excitement and anticipation. Initially, I faced the challenges of language barriers and cultural unfamiliarity, as I did not speak Chinese and had limited knowledge of Chinese customs. However, I swiftly adapted and immersed myself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. I dedicated myself to learning everyday Chinese vocabulary, which helped me navigate daily life with ease.
Living in a city like Beijing is a true pleasure. The warmth and friendliness of the people, coupled with the stunning natural beauty, make it an incredible place to call home. I am grateful for the opportunity to live and work in such a dynamic and diverse city.
My professional life in Beijing revolves around my culinary career. Aside from my work at the restaurant where I am employed, I also hold the esteemed position of Head Chef at the Azerbaijani Embassy. This role allows me to contribute to state events and diplomatic meetings by showcasing the richness of Azerbaijani cuisine. I take immense pride in introducing and presenting Azerbaijani culinary traditions in a modern and innovative manner. It is a privilege to promote cultural understanding and foster appreciation through the art of gastronomy.
In my leisure time, I engage in the exhilarating practice of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This sport has become a source of joy and personal growth for me. I have participated in competitions across various regions of China and have been fortunate enough to achieve success, earning six gold medals and one silver medal. Representing Azerbaijan through my athletic endeavors brings me a profound sense of fulfillment.
In summary, my life in Beijing has been a transformative journey filled with growth and experiences. Embracing the city's culture, dedicating myself to my culinary craft, and excelling in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have allowed me to create a well-rounded and fulfilling life in this remarkable city.
I am eager to continue representing Azerbaijan and contributing to the vibrant cultural exchange between our two nations.
