Welcome to Shakumaku, a food blog dedicated to sharing authentic and accessible Middle Eastern cuisine, with a special focus on Iraqi and Levantine recipes while also exploring flavors from around the world.
Our goal is to make traditional dishes approachable for home cooks everywhere. At the heart of Shakumaku is a commitment to preserving and sharing Iraqi food culture through reliable recipes that are carefully tested and clearly explained.
Each recipe is documented with step-by-step instructions so readers can confidently recreate these dishes in their own kitchens.
The Story Behind Shakumaku
Shakumaku was founded by Safa Husain, a recipe developer and food photographer passionate about Iraqi cuisine and storytelling through food.
Through Shakumaku, Safa shares both well-known favorites and lesser-known traditional dishes from Iraq. Recipes range from popular classics like kubba halab to regional dishes such as kubba shwandar, often with thoughtful modern touches while respecting their traditional roots.
One of Safa’s personal favorites is tepsi, a comforting Iraqi baked dish that brings together simple ingredients and bold flavors.
Our Mission
At Shakumaku, every recipe is created with three goals in mind:
1. Preserving culinary heritage
Many Middle Eastern and Iraqi dishes carry deep cultural significance. We aim to highlight the history, regional origins, and occasions associated with these foods.
2. Making traditional cooking accessible
Recipes are written with clear explanations so both beginners and experienced cooks can successfully recreate them.
3. Providing reliable recipes
Every recipe is carefully developed, tested, and documented to ensure consistent results.
What You’ll Find on Shakumaku
On this blog, you’ll discover:
- Authentic Iraqi recipes
- Levantine and Middle Eastern dishes
- Modern interpretations of traditional meals
- Step-by-step cooking guides
- Cultural stories behind the food
Browse all recipes here.
Editorial Guidelines
Shakumaku is committed to publishing high-quality, helpful, and accurate content.
Our editorial standards include:
- Rigorous recipe testing before publication
- Accurate measurements and clear instructions
- Carefully researched articles about dishes and ingredients
- Original photography created for the blog
Our goal is to provide recipes that readers can trust and return to again and again.
Follow Shakumaku
You can follow Shakumaku for recipes, cooking videos, and updates on:
What Does “Shakumaku” Mean?
Shakumaku is a common casual expression in Iraqi Arabic.
It combines two words:
- Shaku — “What is there?”
- Maku — “There isn’t.”
Together, it’s used as a friendly greeting—similar to saying “What’s up?” or “Anything new?”
The name reflects the spirit of the blog: casual, welcoming, and centered around everyday food and conversation.