Hi friends,

As many of us pack for summer adventures — or plan winter escapes in the Southern Hemisphere — it’s the perfect time to bring In My Kitchen with Paula along for the ride.

Our new 4-part solo series, Flavourful Bonds, has launched, and the first two episodes are now live! While creating them, I found myself reflecting on my Pakistani heritage — a side of me I know far less about than my Māori roots, despite being 50% Pakistani. These episodes explore how character strengths show up in Pakistan and beyond, as I begin reconnecting with that part of my story.

🎧 Episode 35 Flavourful Bonds Part 1: “Kindness On A Platter”

This episode explores love, kindness, and curiosity — three character strengths that shape how we connect with others, especially through travel and food. Whether it’s sitting at a stranger’s table or adding a chair to our own, this episode is all about embracing the unfamiliar with an open heart.

🎧 Episode 36 Flavourful Bonds Part 2: “Exploring Cultural Truths Through Cuisine”

Episode 36 takes us deeper into honesty, bravery, and integrity — and how food traditions around the world invite us to speak and live our truths. You’ll hear reflections on everything from Italian culinary pride to the quiet courage of sharing who we really are around the table.

🍲 Featured Recipe: Nosheen’s Nihari

In Episode 36, I share a recipe from Nosheen, who has a blog that shares authentic Pakistani recipes: Untold Recipes by Nosheen. The recipe is for Nihari — a rich, spiced meat stew traditionally served in the mornings. It’s warming, soulful, and a beautiful expression of cultural pride and love through food.

🎒 Take us with you

Whether you’re traveling to faraway places, planning a cultural staycation, or simply looking to reflect around your own kitchen table — I hope these episodes keep you company.

There’s more to come, including:
💫 Episode 3 — Resilience in the Ruptures (forgiveness, hope, and perspective)
💫 Episode 4 — What We Leave Behind (humility, gratitude, and legacy)

Thank you for being here.
Happy Cooking Happy Travels

Warmly,
Paula