Hawa Hassan

Hawa Hassan is a Somali-American entrepreneur, chef, and author. She is best known as the founder and CEO of Basbaas Sauce, a line of Somali-inspired condiments. Hassan has gained recognition for her efforts to bring Somali cuisine to a broader audience and for her contributions to the culinary world.

Early Life

Hawa Hassan was born in Mogadishu, Somalia. During the Somali Civil War, her family fled to a refugee camp in Kenya. At the age of seven, Hassan was sent to the United States to live with a family friend in Seattle, Washington. She was later reunited with her family after 15 years.

Career

Basbaas Sauce

In 2015, Hawa Hassan founded Basbaas Sauce, which is inspired by the flavors of Somali cuisine. The name "Basbaas" means "chili" in Somali. The product line includes a variety of sauces that incorporate traditional Somali ingredients and flavors, such as tamarind, dates, and coconut.

Author

Hassan is also the author of the cookbook In Bibi's Kitchen, which she co-wrote with Julia Turshen. The book features recipes and stories from grandmothers (bibis) in eight African countries bordering the Indian Ocean, including Somalia, Eritrea, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Recognition

Hawa Hassan has been featured in various media outlets for her work in promoting Somali cuisine and culture. She has appeared on cooking shows and has been profiled in magazines and newspapers.

Personal Life

Hassan resides in New York City. She continues to advocate for Somali cuisine and culture through her work and public appearances.

Related Pages

• Somali cuisine
• Somalia
• Mogadishu
• Seattle
• New York City
• Julia Turshen