At what age did you decide you wanted to cook for a living?
Ever since I was little, all I knew is that I wanted to cook. Watching my mother and grandmother discuss recipes and different techniques gave me an opportunity to learn a lot of cooking secrets and family traditions from a young age. That combined with the fact that I happened to be good at cooking was an added bonus, I guess.
What do you think of the Abu Dhabi food scene?
The Abu Dhabi food scene is one of the most rapidly expanding and innovative in the region, and in the global market place. It truly reflects a melting pot of old styles and current food trends. Also, add to that a population and clientele looking for new culinary experiences and not afraid to try new things and cuisines. What I really enjoy about it is that the origins of the food scene here can be traced back to some more traditional foods as found in the UAE.
Why did you enter the competition?
This was a great opportunity to compete with the talent in a city built on opportunity and budding palates. Also, to realise and live out your dream is one thing; but to compete and be recognized on a platform like Time Out Abu Dhabi is the culmination of years of dedication, hard work and sacrifice.
What’s your least favourite food?
Fast food is my least favourite food. It lacks imagination and creativity, and the ingredients are so over processed they’re unrecognizable.
Who’s your culinary hero?
My culinary hero is my late grandmother Mitha Irani. She taught me the basic understanding of ingredients, flavours and cooking. She showed me how to respect the seasons, the produce specific to it and to enjoy the nutrients best from farm fresh organic ingredients.
