The Rubina’s brand was inspired by fond childhood memories of congregating around the warm atmosphere of the kitchen where grandparents and relatives gathered to create home-made, wholesome creations.

The art of spice combination and food preparation comes naturally to Rubina. At a young age she had the creative ability to craft tasty creations. Her fondest memories revolve around food with the entire family congregating at her grandparent’s house with rolling pins in their hands. The children could be found playing in the background and occasionally being called to assist in stirring sauces, chopping vegetables or rolling out pastry. Apart from great gossip, the atmosphere guaranteed a supply of condiments and hors d’oeuvres. Reminiscent of past times, the nostalgia of family warmth and heritage that was alive then is a central theme of Rubina’s sauces - of a past that we all long for.

Rubina was born in South Africa and of East Indian Descent and moved to Canada in 2001. Being the mother of four children of varied age groups, she felt a need to find a way to cut down on time spent in the kitchen preparing elaborate meals without losing the quality and authenticity of a rich East Indian heritage. Sunday mornings were turned into kitchen time where meals were allocated for the rest of the week and all major preparations were attended to. This seemed to cut down on time spent in the kitchen and more time getting the kids to soccer, hockey, and gymnastics, still allowing for a hot traditional family supper while trying to balance the best of both worlds.

A great value is placed on the ability of combining the aroma of wonderful Indian spices with contemporary ingredients and hence creating traditional but unique dishes. Being extremely important aspects of cooking, an emphasis is placed on taste and presentation. The concept of creating dishes that are exceptional and that will tantalize taste buds with the various spices, sauces and marinating techniques is the joy in it all.

Being part of a culturally diverse family with members ranging from Africans, East Indians, Irish Italians and Australians, Rubina pays respect to her heritage as well as to her international ‘league of nations’. Each member of her family brought a different cuisine to the table. She took each one’s style of cooking and created her own brand.As a footnote, she prepared the ‘Ramadan Feast’ for the opening episode in CBC’s hit sitcom Little Mosque on the Prairie.