What's Best in the World of Food
India's first premium video magazine for recipes, reviews, and news & updates from the world of food
Watch MasterChef Australia Contestant Rishi Desai Cook 2 Aussie Lamb Chop Steaks with an Indian Twist
After getting eliminated in final week of MasterChef Australia, Rishi Desai's indisputable talents in the kitchen - aided by his chocolate boy looks - has earned him a fan following not only Down Under but also back in India, from where this Kolhapuri chemical engineer originally hails.
So it was only natural that his cooking demonstration at Godrej Nature's Basket in Bandra last week would be populated by a predominantly female audience who had the pleasure of watching Rishi recreate some of the magic that made him a strong contender in the MasterChef kitchen.
The event, hosted by Tourism Australia, had the MasterChef contestant create dishes that showcased Austalian cuisine at its best, but not without his trademark Indian twist. Rishi marinated his lamb barbecue with BBQ and soy sauces flavoured with chili powder, cumin and coriander. Watch the video for the free-wheeling recipes and lots of handy kitchen tips.
Rishi has certainly picked up a flair for performance through the show, making small talk and cracking jokes with the audience as he cooked. He also shared some useful tips, including the one he picked up from Heston Blumenthal in the MasterChef kitchen. While talking about the soy caramel sauce he made during an Invention Test, Rishi said that instead of adding sugar to sweeten caramel, a little bit of salt actually brings out the hidden sweetness. He suggested that one try this out with bitter chocolate.
The event was part of promotions for a contest sponsored by the gourmet chain and the Australian Government in association with Tourism Australia, Singapore Airlines and Outlook Traveller, with an aim to encourage Indians to use Australian food ingredients in their cooking. Foodies can share their recipes via social media, following which three winners will be selected in each city through an in-store competition. The winners will be flown down for a four-day trip to Australia, which will include a visit to the Yarra Valley, dinner at MasterChef judge Gary Mehigan's restaurant and a surprise visit by the MasterChef Gods themselves!