Chef Penny Davidi has always aimed to break new ground. She became the first Middle Eastern Jewish woman on the Food Network in 2011 and partnered with a Real Housewife to open two restaurants. Her love and enthusiasm drive her to achieve every goal she sets.
Recently, she published a Middle Eastern cookbook called It’s My Thyme. It is filled with Persian family recipes passed down through generations. The recipes in It’s My Thyme hold a special place in Chef Penny’s heart, particularly the traditional Persian-Jewish meals enjoyed at Friday night dinners.
Growing up in a Persian household, Chef Penny’s mother and grandmother instilled in her a deep appreciation for family and food, regardless of the tough circumstances. From the Iranian Revolution to California, the women of her family ensured that everyone was well-fed. Whether it was stews or snacks, love was always present at the dining table. Every recipe in her cookbook carries a family story, and Chef Penny hopes to share the love she experienced through her family’s cuisine with others when they prepare her dishes.