'Not a Fusion Fan as Authenticity of its Original Flavours is Lost'
CHENNAI: It began when I was in Class 6...I was peeling a garlic. (smiling) Hailing from Vellore, I of course had an inclination towards tangy dishes and I used to love tamarind rice and tomato chutney that my mother would make. Intrigued by the punch of flavours induced by simple spices, I decided to make my own tomato chutney and that remains my favourite dish till date. Though I did not decide to become a chef, the path had already been laid and dare I say, it was destiny! Enjoying what my mother cooked, eating her dishes, helping her cook and shop for vegetables are my fondest childhood memories – all of them are to do with food and kitchen.
Well, after college, I took up hotel management and started my career as a professional chef in 2002 with The Park. Though I started out as a pastry chef, I gained the experience of working in all kitchens. I also travelled to Dubai for a while where I learnt more about the nuances of confectionary and baking. After I got back, the other pastry chefs and I created a variety of desserts in Courtyard by Marriott.
Till today, my life revolves around food and travel. I move to different cities and explore the dishes, spices and ingredients.
I have very fond memories of my time in Ahmedabad; I fell madly in love with their flavours! I would explore every street and taste every possible dish — from khandvi to undhiyu and more. I also love Kerala cuisine because of the use of coconut oil and Andhra food for its spicy and tangy taste. Coming to my specialisation, it is a popular misconception that pastry/dessert chefs have a sweet tooth but I don’t. In fact I don’t eat sweets at all except an occasional indulgence in gulab jamun with ice cream or chocolate.
Though I experiment with food, I personally feel that it can spoil the individuality of a dish. Until I am satisfied with the taste and flavour of a dish, I would never serve.
Top 5 Dishes
Beef Ulathiyathu (Kerala Cuisine)
Ulavucharu (Andhara Cuisine)
Ambur Biriyani
Lemon rice
Stir fried vegetable/chicken (Oriental)
Dishes For La Familia
Prawn biriyani
Roast chicken
Roti and rice
Renndang chicken/lamb (Thai oriental dish)
Beef Ulathiyathu (Kerala Cuisine)
Ulavucharu (Andhara Cuisine)
Ambur Biriyani
Lemon rice
Stir fried vegetable/chicken (Oriental)
Dishes For La Familia
Prawn biriyani
Roast chicken
Roti and rice
Renndang chicken/lamb (Thai oriental dish)