Mukul for MasterChef S22 Heat 6 / BBC
Age: 38
Job: Operations Manager
From: Edinburgh
How would you describe your cooking style?
“My cooking style is inspired by the Punjabi food I grew up eating at home. Even though I was raised in Dehradun, my family’s Punjabi roots meant our kitchen was always filled with bold spices, slow-cooked curries and generous, comforting dishes. Those flavours are still at the heart of my cooking today, although I enjoy presenting them in a slightly more modern way.”
What is your favourite ingredient to cook with?
“Ghee is my favourite ingredient to cook with. It’s a form of clarified butter commonly used in Indian cooking, with a rich, nutty flavour. For me it’s the taste of home. The aroma alone reminds me of the dishes I grew up eating.”
Why did you take part in the show?
“I wanted to challenge myself and see how my cooking stands up in a professional kitchen environment. Cooking has always been a huge passion for me and entering MasterChef felt like the perfect opportunity to push myself outside my comfort zone and share the flavours I grew up with.”
Would you like to work professionally in the food industry?
“I would love to open a restaurant where guests can experience authentic Indian flavours, particularly the bold and comforting Punjabi dishes I grew up with, alongside the stories and culture behind the dishes. As someone who also loves music, I’d love to create a space where food, culture and music come together to create a truly immersive dining experience.”
MasterChef continues on BBC One and iPlayer.
