1. Tell us about your background and journey.
I studied food science and technology & I was working as a scientist with an American company. I have always been passionate about food and eating good food. This made me experiment and learn things with time.
I am a self-taught food enthusiast and now have run restaurants for 3 years, I have a fair idea of business and food.
Masterchef just happened to come by way. Friends motivated me to go for it, I went and honestly for sure I got lucky to have received so much love. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a TV show.
Reality shows have a shelf life, so what you make for yourself post the show really matter. We all truly know the reality of reality shows.
2. What led you to take up this career path?
3. You are a Masterchef when you look back what made this happen?
I think I am super dedicated and committed. So it was this that made it all happen. I love learning and for me, growth is defined by your learning curve.
4. Does one's approach change when cooking professionally and at home?
Yes, it does. Because at home, the cost doesn’t matter. In the professional kitchen, there are many factors - cost, consistency are the 2 most important ones. The professional kitchen has it’s own challenges, planning and being organized is very essential.
5. Which is or are some of your favourite dishes?
Too many. My food is inspired by travel. I love exploring new flavours and have a very open mind when it comes to food. If there is food in front of me and it’s vegetarian, I’d love to explore it. Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Arabic and Italian are my favourite cuisines.
Indian of course I have an extreme love for. I love home-cooked food, anyone’s home food. Even a good aloo ki sabzi or dal can steal my heart.
6. Can cooking be learnt at culinary schools or natural talent is required?
Both are great. I didn’t go for any culinary programs. I feel whatever you do, natural flow and instinct can take you really far ahead. Being passionate is important because it is a tiring and labour intensive job.
7. Your advice to those who want to follow your footsteps.
Only one thing - Never kill a stupid idea or any inner calling. If you’ve set your heart on something, trust the universe it will make your path. Just have faith & keep on doing your part.
Don’t focus or measure success by just social media numbers, etc. Keep on consistently following your dream & trust that you will get to where you've set out to be.
- Neha Deepak Shah (MasterChef)
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