JOIN USWhile it may be the norm for women to 'man' the kitchen at home, it has never been easy for them in a restaurant kitchen, which is unarguably a male bastion. This, however, is changing.
Professional kitchens are now seeing a tide of women chefs rising to the top of their field. Despite the challenges they face, women are moving to stake their claim as the best out there and let their skills do the talking. Meet the women who are cooking up a storm.
Kshama Prabhu
Kshama has been working in the hospitality sector for over 15 years. She's a formidable force in the kitchen and has worked with some of the best across the globe. Currently, she is the group chef at The Bar Stock Exchange in Mumbai.
Your inspirations…
My mother, my mentor chef Nancy Kinchella, Mihir Desai and Amit Singh, who launched The Bar Stock Exchange.
Overcoming challenges as a woman in the professional kitchen…
It is never easy for anyone to enter a profession, which is usually dominated by the other sex. There have been times where I felt so petite and wanted to give up. However, I would then turn to my inspiration and step up, only to raise the bar and enter next level of the game.
What do you love about your job?
My job gives me the freedom of thought, creativity and liberty.
An unforgettable experience in the kitchen...
When I was with Vu's restaurant in Dubai, I participated in the junior chef's competition, and the best part was when I won a gold medal.
A dish that brings back fond memories…
Misal pav brings back great memories and it was an essential part of our breakfast.
Essential ingredients in your pantry
Butter, garlic, salt, sugar, eggs, and dried red chillies.
What's likely to be in the spotlight for food this year?
Local and hyper local cuisine.
NIMISHA VERGHESE
Nimisha's journey into the culinary world began early, as her father was working in the hospitality sector for many years. She is currently the senior sous chef, The Oberoi, Bengaluru.
Your inspiration…
My father - he played a big role in mentoring me.
Overcoming challenges as a woman in the professional kitchen…
While professional kitchen setups still remain primarily a male domain, with the right mentorship, I was able to overcome hurdles I faced and excel as well.
What do you love about your job?
The fast-paced adrenaline and the team work is what I love. Most of all, I love a diner who says "this is one of the best meals I have had in a long time!"
An unforgettable experience in your kitchen
After the 2011 Cricket World Cup Final in Mumbai got over, my colleagues and I dished out around 65 pizzas in a span of 2.5 hours.
A dish that brings back fond memories…
The fluffy appams and chicken stew that my grandmother would make on Christmas morning.
Essential ingredients in your pantry
Salt, pepper, butter, sugar, flour, eggs.
What's likely to be in the spotlight for food this year?
I think we need to highlight the wonderful indigenous fruits and vegetables available in India.
POOJA DHINGRA
Although Pooja always loved baking, it wasn't until much later that she realised that it was her calling. So, she quit the law course she had enrolled for and went on to study hospitality and baking. Today, she is the founder of Le15 Patisserie, Le15 Cafe and Studio Fifteen Culinary Centre in Mumbai.
Who's you inspiration?
My mother, she is an incredibly strong woman, who has supported me at every stage.
Overcoming challenges as a woman in the professional kitchen…
What do you love about your job?
As a baker, I love being a part of so many celebrations.
An unforgettable experience in the kitchen…
Seeing my macaron recipe work after hundreds of failed attempts.
A dish that brings back fond memories…
Mushroom with white sauce on toast.
Essential ingredients in your pantry
Eggs, flour, butter, sugar, chocolate, sea-salt and green tea.
What's likely to be in the spotlight for food this year?
Ethically sourced ingredients, single origin chocolates and super foods.
ANAHITA DHONDY
Anahita started her culinary journey at a young age of 10 helping out her mother, who is a home chef and caterer. "Even though there very few female chefs and mentors in the industry, I was determined to make a career in this field," she says. Today, she is chef manager at SodabottleOpenerWala, New Delhi.
Who is your inspiration?
My mother, as she makes everything look simple, Heston Blumenthal and Sabyasachi Gorai.
Overcoming challenges as a woman in the professional kitchen…
It is a tough industry for a woman, as you are in a super-pressurising environment full of men. However, the job is rewarding as you get to see the appreciation for the dish you have created.
What do you love about your job?
It is rewarding and satisfying to create something that you want to. The most exciting part is when you make something that is flavourful and everyone appreciates its taste.
Essential ingredients in your pantry
Eggs, butter, bread, some kind of chilli sauce, green chillies, coriander, yogurt and fruits.
A dish that brings back fond memories…
Akuri (scrambled eggs with Parsi spices) on toast.
What's likely to be in the spotlight for food this year?
I think that cauliflower will be the next avocado. Additionally, I also think that healthy ancient grains, millets, seasonal produce, and eating clean flavours will big this year.
SAMANTHA NUNES
Samantha began her journey into the culinary world as a part of her training programme at Taj. Armed with a specialisation in pastry and continental cooking, she cut her teeth with the Taj briefly before moving on to Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, where she is currently the pastry chef.
Who's your inspiration?
Carlos Lischetti.
Overcoming challenges as a woman in the professional kitchen…
When I first started, it was quite challenging. It was a male-dominated kitchen and not many were happy about the presence of a woman. I had to work twice as hard. However, the men in the kitchen came around once they realised my mettle.
What do you love about your job?
I love recreating desserts that I have loved eating. Additionally, seeing a customer's face brighten up when they see the dessert and the satisfaction they get when they eat it.
Your ideal dessert…
I love having warm chocolate cake with a home-made caramel almond ice cream as like the contrast of hot and cold.
Essential ingredients in your pantry
I always have a stock of butter, sugar and chocolate.
What's likely to be in the spotlight for food this year?
Gluten-free food, vegan desserts, and healthy versions of desserts