Yen for MasterChef 2025 / BBC
Age: 38
Occupation: Data Scientist
From: Carlisle via Vietnam
How would you describe your style of cooking?
“My cooking style is exciting and beautifully presented, often featuring local ingredients prepared in a modern way with global flavours and spices. I also enjoy the discipline of recreating recipes from renowned chefs. At home, we have a library which includes over 100 cookbooks covering chefs and cuisines from around the world. From plant-based to home curing and sourdough bread baking, these books are a great source of inspiration to me. I enjoy exploring and revisiting various cuisines, always eager to learn new dishes.”
What is your favourite ingredient to cook with and why?
“My favourite ingredient is raw local honey which I use for many sweet and savoury dishes, including my favourite lacto-fermented strawberries in raw honey.”
Why did you enter MasterChef this year?
“During the challenges in the last four years, like many people, I found cooking and baking very therapeutic. I have always been passionate about food. Relocating to the UK sparked my experimentation with fusion flavours, blending Southeast Asian influences with local, seasonal ingredients. My father’s sudden passing in February last year has driven me to follow my passion for cooking. Though I regret not being able to share my culinary skills with him, his passing has given me clarity and courage to pursue my dreams and develop my unique cooking style. I found a lot of joy in the whole process. So that has all led me to apply to MasterChef.”
MasterChef continues Wednesday at 8pm on BBC One.
