Mojgan for MasterChef 2025 / BBC
Age: 56
Occupation: Fashion Designer
From: Bournemouth via Tehran
How would you describe your style of cooking?
“My Persian cooking is a heartfelt tribute to the beauty and deep heritage of Iranian cuisine. Every dish I create is rooted in centuries of tradition. Flavours layered with saffron, rose, dried limes and fresh herbs, each telling stories from ancient Persia.
“I have a broad palette which means I can cook many cuisines but I’m mainly inspired by Persian cuisine. Thai, Indian and French cooking are another specialty of mine.
“I was inspired by my mother, who cooked not just with her hands but with her heart. In our home food was never just nourishment, it was love, care and connection. She taught me that Persian cooking is an art.”
What is your favourite ingredient to cook with and why?
“My favourite ingredient is saffron. It can transform a dish with its colour, aroma and warmth. For me it’s a soul of Persian cooking, a symbol of beauty, patience and depth.”
Why did you enter MasterChef this year?
“I entered MasterChef because I believe food is the heart of the family. I want to inspire families and children to enjoy cooking together, creating memories. Cooking is love and I want to share that. Everyone is impressed with my cooking, and I love cooking, so I’d like to show the nation a mixture of Persian and British cuisine and make everyone inspired. I believe if you cook well you love life!”
MasterChef continues weekly on BBC One and iPlayer.
