The National Public Radio (NPR) in America broadcast a report on Tuesday by correspondent Deborah Amos, who had recently visited the city of Aleppo, saying that Aleppo has become the Middle East's capital of gastronomy.

In her report, Amos reported about the variety found in Aleppo's food markets; with radishes as big as apples, fresh white cheese floating in salty water, shiny green and black olives, hundreds of pickles, and thick pomegranate molasses. She also talked about the spice markets; with yellow turmeric, pink rose petals and red sun-dried pepper paste.

The report noted that Aleppo's cuisine is the product of its fertile land and strategic location along the Silk Road, as it is surrounded by nut, olive and fruit orchards.

Head of the Syrian Academy of Gastronomy Pierre Antaki told NPR that the diversity of food and spices is due to the fact that many caravans used to pass through Aleppo.

Amos said the secret of food in Aleppo lies in the small traditional restaurants, such as the shop of Abu Abdo, famous for more than 70 years for his ful (a fava bean dish) that is popular with all people of Aleppo and tourists.

The report also pointed out to Aleppo's kibbe, saying that this dish is often tasteless in other places in the Middle East, while in Aleppo it is an art form, with more than 12 varieties

Amos concluded by focusing on the importance of food in the tourist sector, noting that in addition to Syria's history that attracts tourists interested in archeology, Syria has now began to attract gastronome tourists.

The National Public Radio (NPR) is one of the most popular radio stations in the United States, particularly among educated people, decision makers and those interested in international affairs.  SANA