Chef Dino Angelo Luciano wants to feed the whole world

Dino Angelo Luciano is a man of many talents. He's a saxophone, piano and guitar player. He is a self-professed androgynous dancer, a passionate artist and a chef. It's probably why he became one of the contestants of MasterChef US which airs on Star World India.  Learning to cook from his family, especially his Sicilian grandmother, the blonde-haired, tattooed and eclectic Dino is all set to be part of the finale with his stunning entree, appetiser and dessert which will air today. He spoke what it's like to be a part of the show to Anila Kurian.

How has the experience of being part of MasterChef US changed you?  

It has opened my eyes to a whole new level of cooking. It's allowed me to learn more about other cultures and  their food. The experience has taught me to execute dishes and know which  flavours go together. It was a short-term culinary school.

You're the first vegan chef on the show. Was it difficult for you to execute dishes?  

Not at all. I'm quite familiar with non-vegan dishes, so I never found it as an obstacle.  

Who is your favourite judge?  

It has to Gordan Ramsey because he was confident throughout the show. He gives it to you straight and told you things as they were. I appreciated all his  comments.  

You were already an artist and dancer before you came on the show. How did you use those skills in your cooking?

Being an artist taught me how to be free and create things in my mind. When I was cooking, it allowed me to concentrate and execute my dishes  as how I wanted it. It helped me understand the technical steps and be precise with my work.  

If you hadn't found your place on the show, what were some of your life goals?  

I'd still be cooking. My  ultimate dream is to feed the entire world. I don't know if it'll be possible in this lifetime but that's what I've always  wanted to do and I'm sure I would have dedicated my life for that.  

Are you familiar with India and some of the ingredients we use?  

I haven't visited the country, but it's definitely on my list. Indian food is definitely on my top three list of favourite foods. I do prepare 'paneer masala' at home.  It doesn't taste that great but I love it. I always make sure that I have some masalas in my kitchen  - it goes well with everything!

 Which are your top three places to visit?  

India for its food, Bali to surf and England because I want to go to London.  

If you could change something about the food industry, what would it be?  

I wish restaurants wouldn't waste so much food at the end of the day. I think we can start the train of saving food and turning it into something useful.  It could either be to become a soup kitchen, take it home or feed the homeless.