Mumbai, March 9 – Celebrity chef Kunal Kapur, who recently concluded the 9th season of the cooking reality show ‘MasterChef India’, has stated that the evolution of Indian cuisine has been scientifically shaped over centuries by the Vedic and Hakim traditions.
He spoke with IANS on the set of ‘MasterChef India’ during the season finale. When asked about the differences between Indian and Western cuisine, he told IANS, “The origin of every cuisine is very different. I believe that the spices we use in our food can be added to a simple cup of tea, and there is a science behind it. Because our food has been defined by the Vedic and Hakim traditions over time. If we grind all the spices and give them to them, it is good for their health. But we will not drink it because it is very strong. But if we grind the same spices and make garam masala and add it to our food, then we will be able to eat it.”
He further added, “So, over time, according to availability and different body types, our food has evolved. If there were so many spices in it, then they were added to our food. In the same way, if you talk about the Western world, or if you go towards Asian-style food, Chinese food has umami, spices, and herbs, and their flavor is very different and strong. In the same way, in the Western world, minimal spices are used, but they are still used.”
“The flavors of both are different. And as individuals, we have that option that if we want to try something like this today, then we have to try something like that today. Plus, the place where it grows, that is used. And for that climate, for that soil, for that air, it is appropriate,” he added.