Shipra Khanna - I Learned to Curate Menus Globally, Work With Celebrated Chefs, and Teach at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris (Masterchef Winner)

"Believe in yourself and your unique voice. Never stop learning and experimenting. Embrace failures as stepping stones to success."

1. Can you share your journey and how your passion for cooking evolved?

My journey has been a passionate and resilient one, driven by a commitment to my craft. Growing up, I was fascinated by the diverse flavors and aromas in my kitchen, inspired by my grandmothers' and mothers' traditional recipes. This spark led me to pursue a career in culinary arts, and winning MasterChef India was a pivotal moment that transformed my life. It validated my hard work and reminded me that dreams do come true with dedication, hard work, determination, and perseverance.

2. How did winning MasterChef India impact your career and approach to cooking?

Winning MasterChef India was a game-changer, turning my passion into a profession and instilling a sense of responsibility. It gave me a platform to showcase my skills, share my culinary vision, and experiment with global flavors while staying true to my roots. This experience taught me the importance of innovation, creativity, and storytelling in cooking. I learned to curate menus globally, work with celebrated chefs, and teach at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris.

3. You've authored nine cookbooks and hosted various cooking shows. How do you balance creativity and charisma in your work?

For me, balance is about authenticity. When writing, I pour my heart into each recipe, drawing inspiration from my experiences, travels, and cultural heritage. On television, I bring that same passion to life, being genuine, enthusiastic, and approachable. It's a dynamic balance of being deeply personal and outwardly expressive, and I find joy in both aspects of my career.

4. What advice would you give to aspiring chefs looking to make a mark in the culinary world?

Believe in yourself and your unique voice. Never stop learning and experimenting. Embrace failures as stepping stones to success. Stay humble and grounded, and remember the love for food that brought you into this field. Your passion and authenticity will shine through and help you carve your niche. Always be open to feedback, and never stop innovating and improving.

5. How do you stay inspired and keep your recipes fresh and innovative in the evolving culinary landscape? Are there any emerging food trends that excite you?

I stay inspired by embracing curiosity and exploring different cultures through travel. I discover new ingredients, techniques, and flavors, which fuel my creativity and help me keep my recipes fresh and innovative. Currently, I'm excited about sustainable cooking, local and seasonal ingredients, plant-based cuisine, and ancient grains like millets. These trends inspire me to create healthy, delicious, and environmentally conscious recipes.

6. What's your favorite book and why?

One of my favorites is "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. It's a beautiful narrative about following your dreams and listening to your heart. The book reminds me that every step in our journey, no matter how challenging, brings us closer to our purpose and dream. It encourages me to stay true to myself and my passion for cooking.

Bio:

Shipra Khanna is an Indian celebrity chef, restaurateur, author and television personality. She is best known for, at the age of 29,winning the second season of the Indian television show MasterChef India (2012) which aired on Star Plus.

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Interviewed by: Manya 

Edited by : Mishika Goel