Sue Dahman was born in the north of Lebanon, and food and tradition were what her family life was all about. Her family home was a meeting place for friends, neighbours and family, a place where they could enjoy breakfast, Sabhiya lunch or dinner – all cooked by her mother. Sue learned the art of Lebanese cooking from her mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She now has four grown-up children and six grandchildren herself, all of whom live close by...so they can continue to enjoy her cooking. This is why she has chosen the word Tayta – Lebanese for grandma – for her book’s title. It best describes who she is today. Over the years and during her extensive travels around the Mediterranean and the Middle East, Sue has tasted and collected many new food ideas.

This book is a celebration of her favourite recipes. Sue runs Lebanese cooking classes from her home in south-western Sydney. Since her first book came out, in 2012, Sue has also spoken often in libraries and bookstores about the benefits of the Lebanese and Mediterranean diet.