Ibraheem “Ibz” Umar for MasterChef: The Professionals series 19 Heat 2 / © BBC/Shine TV Ltd
Age: 28
Lives: County Clare, Ireland
Current Position: Chef de Partie and Co-founder of Guatu, a Caribbean supper club
Social Media:Instagram
Where do you currently work?
“I now work at the Armada Hotel in Spanish Point, County Clare, Ireland. I’m also the co-founder of Guatu’, a Caribbean supperclub and pop-up celebrating food, music and art.”
Who or what inspired you to become a chef?
“My family is at the heart of it, especially my mum and dad. They’ve both had a huge influence on who I am and the food I want to cook. My Guyanese and Jamaican roots give me so much to draw from, and cooking is a way of celebrating that part of me.
“I’m the eldest of nine siblings, so family is a big part of my life! I want my food to have that sense of generosity and togetherness, with plenty of flavour and a bit of personality. Making my parents proud means a lot to me.”
How would you describe your cooking style?
“Caribbean at heart, with a bit of Brixton and the techniques I’ve picked up in fine dining. I love taking flavours connected to my family and giving them my own twist. A dish like Guyanese pepperpot is a good example of the food that excites me: deep flavour, spice and a real connection to my roots.
“My mum and dad are a big part of that influence. Living in County Clare has also got me excited about bringing those flavours together with Irish produce. I take cooking seriously, but I want eating it to feel relaxed and fun.”
What are three ingredients you couldn’t live without?
“Lemon, chillies and olive oil.”
Why did you take part in the show?
“I wanted to see how far I’d come. I’d previously competed on MasterChef as an amateur and reached the quarter-finals, so returning as a professional felt like a chance to put all that kitchen experience to the test.
“I wanted to challenge myself, cook food that represents me and make my family proud. There’s something exciting about going back into that kitchen with more experience, a clearer idea of your food and just as many butterflies!”
The new series of MasterChef: The Professionals is ongoing on BBC One and iPlayer.
