Kiri products have achieved significant popularity in the Middle East, where they are frequently used in cheesecake recipes and stuffed into Sambusak during Ramadan. "People in this region really enjoy cooking with Kiri," remarked Chef Heyam Adelhadi, the Executive Chef of Bel Groupe.
In an interview, Chef Adelhadi discussed Bel’s best-selling products: Boursin, known for its distinctive flavor, and La Vache Qui Rit (Laughing Cow), both favorites among both children and adults in the region.
He also highlighted his upcoming book, which features the new Kiri Professional Soft Cream Cheese, a 1.5kg tub. The book includes 10 recipes that demonstrate the versatility of this cream cheese in both Levantine and French fusion dishes. Chef Adelhadi, passionate about blending Oriental flavors with French culinary techniques, has added innovative touches to each recipe, from Biryani Risotto to Musakhan Focaccia.
For the dessert section, Chef Adelhadi collaborated with Chef Elias Abou Diwan, Executive Chef at Pachi, to create elegant sweet treats that complement the savory dishes. This book showcases the creativity and versatility that Kiri Professional Cream Cheese inspires in professional and aspiring chefs alike.
As the Executive Chef at Bel, Chef Adelhadi primarily focuses on the Out-of-Home segment, frequently attending HORECA events across the Middle East to interact with professional chefs and restaurant owners. He conducts workshops to help chefs incorporate Kiri into their menus effectively and serves as the main contact for product-related queries and guidance.
Chef Adelhadi also collaborates with the R&D team to develop new culinary solutions and products, ensuring that Kiri Professional meets the industry's high standards and innovative needs. Upcoming launches include a global collaboration with a renowned chef and several new products.
On an international level, Bel is committed to adopting sustainable solutions from sourcing to packaging and expanding its CSR initiatives in the region.
