Vishal for MasterChef 2025 / BBC
Age: 30
Occupation: Data Scientist
From: Glasgow via India
How would you describe your style of cooking?
“I like cooking everything but mostly love feeding people Indian food to show its range. It’s the food I grew up with and it holds a special place in my heart. However, I have an extensive collection of cookbooks that constantly challenge me to explore and master recipes from around the world. In addition to Indian cuisine, I am particularly fond of Korean and Thai dishes. I find great joy in cooking stews and curries, relishing the rich, complex flavours and the comforting experience they bring.”
What is your favourite ingredient to cook with and why?
“I love cooking with onions – it adds depth, sweetness, and a rich umami base to almost any dish. Their versatility – from sharp and pungent when raw to mellow and caramelised when cooked, makes them a flavour powerhouse in the kitchen. Onions just effortlessly elevate the taste of home-cooked meals.”
Why did you enter MasterChef this year?
“I think I am finally ready to showcase my cooking skills. I feel confident about the flavours I can produce. Being part of MasterChef will allow me to showcase my knowledge of food and the rich Indian cultural heritage I carry. It’s a platform to share my culinary skills with a global audience, highlighting the diverse flavours and traditions I grew up with across every corner of India. Ultimately, I find peace and joy in feeding people, and my goal is to build a fulfilling career in the culinary world.”
MasterChef continues weekly on BBC One and iPlayer.
