Hey! It's Sandeep!
I’ve always loved feeding people—it’s my love language.
If I could pick a nickname, it would be ‘Dadi Ma’ because nothing makes me happier than cooking up a storm and watching people relish what I’ve made.
Growing up in the lush valleys of Kashmir, food was my world. As a Kashmiri Pandit, every meal was a celebration of our culture—aromatic Rogan Josh, comforting Yakhni, and the rich, saffron-laden dishes that made every gathering special. Watching my family come together on those huge carpets, sharing food and laughter, left an imprint on my heart.
Now, I’m on a mission to share the magic of Kashmiri cuisine with the world. It’s not just food—it’s history, tradition, and a story of resilience. Every dish I create carries the soul of my homeland, and there’s no greater joy for me than introducing people to the vibrant spices, delicate flavors, and rich heritage of Kashmiri food.
To me, cooking isn’t just an art—it’s a way of bringing people closer, one plate at a time.
MasterChef Australia 2019 – ‘The Spice Angel’
When I stepped into the MasterChef Australia kitchen in 2019, I was determined to represent Indian food like never before.
Being nicknamed “The Spice Angel” was an honor, but the real joy came from showcasing the rich traditions and flavors of Indian cuisine on such a big stage.
Cooking my heart out, I received rave reviews from culinary legends like Rick Stein—a moment I’ll never forget. One of my proudest achievements was becoming the first contestant in MasterChef Australia history to score a perfect 30 with an Immunity Pin.
My Lobster Masala, a dish close to my heart, went on to be hailed as one of the best in MasterChef Australia’s history.
Being called the best Indian cook in the show’s 11 seasons was overwhelming, but for me, it wasn’t just about the title. It was about showing the world the magic of Indian spices and the soul of our food.
"Call me Dadi,"
I always say, because nothing makes me happier than cooking and feeding people. My love for food goes beyond just eating—it’s about sharing stories, traditions, and love through every bite.
India’s culinary diversity is truly unmatched. Each state, each region, tells its own story through food, from the fiery curries of Rajasthan to the fragrant biryanis of Hyderabad, the coastal flavors of Kerala to the street food of Delhi. Yet, Kashmiri Pandit cuisine, with its delicate saffron, bold spices, and unique vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.
For me, cooking is more than a passion; it’s a mission to bring Kashmiri Pandit cuisine into the spotlight it has long deserved.
Each dish carries the soul of my heritage, and I want the world to experience its richness, just as they celebrate the diverse cuisines of India.
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