How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
I was—I don't mind admitting it—completely rattled by the austere room, so Catholic and foreign to my upbringing, and a voice in my head, half-hysterical, urged me to dash back to the safety and comfort of my cheerful bedroom in Maison Mumbai. (12.4)
The culture clash is really scary for Hassan when he goes to live in Mallory's European home. It seems dark ands morbid compared to the bright colorful world he's used to. In other words, this Western Christianity comes from a totally different mold than what he's used to.
Quote #8
The side dishes I prepared were a mint-infused couscous, rather than the traditional butter noodles, and a cucumber-and-sour-cream salad dashed with a handful of lingonberries. I thought together they would make soothing and light counterpoints to the heavy mustard tang of the stewed hare. Of course, now, looking back, I realize the cucumber and cream was, conscious or not, inspired by raita, the yogurt-and-cucumber condiment of my homeland. (12.176)
At his first chance to prepare a dish in Mallory's kitchen, Hassan is subconsciously inspired by both cultures, creating his own unique fusion of flavors. Early on, Hassan is using the two cultures he hangs out in to create his own new style.
Quote #9
It was logical, with my heritage, that I would be drawn to Chef Mafitte's "world cuisine", which seemed to revel in combining the most bizarre ingredients from the most exotic corners of the earth. (14.13)
Hassan's diverse background has made him open to new ideas in his field. He is able to recognize the creative elements of Chef Mafitte's style, even if he doesn't agree with his full approach in the end.