Chef Nishant: It’s a boon to experiment and work with unique ingredients

Meghana Harikumar

Today, contemporary cooking is more focused on produce than ever before. Sustainable gastronomy is characterized by the use of organic, local products and a direct connection with local producers. This ties in closely with respect for the environment and is then reflected in menus that are adapted to the seasons of nature. One such chef who is working towards Sustainability is Nishant Choubey.

Chef Choubey was one of the few Indians chosen to attend Master’s Chef Classes at the World Gourmet Summit in Singapore when he was associated with the Seinan Group (Tokyo) and the Michelin-Plated Indus Bangkok. He is also the co-founder of Street Storyss in Indiranagar, Bengaluru.

What’s the good thing about being a chef?
A chef has a very creative brain and he can handle critical or challenging times very well. It is also a boon to experiment and work with unique ingredients. And also one final day the chef can become an entrepreneur by opening his own dream restaurant. It is quite exciting.

Why did you want to become a chef?
I think I have the capability and the right temperament. I wanted to become an engineer but I have no regrets. Whatever I am today makes me immensely happy and my entire family is extremely proud.

Do you follow recipes or create your own dishes?
I take inspiration from old recipes and improvise them in my own way. I bring interesting sensible tweaks for the dish to get acknowledged.

What are the easiest and the hardest ingredients to cook with?
The easiest ingredient to cook with is ramen and the hardest is definitely eggs/duck/artichokes.

What’s your favourite food and why do you like it?
The humble fish curry with rice is my favourite and it is something I can eat all day and that’s my soul food. I have grown eating the same and still crave for more.

If you could give our readers one piece of advice, what would that be?
Never give up, this too shall pass – always remain confident and extremely positive. Be determined and passionate to make your dream come true. These are my mantras too.

What are the healthiest things to eat?
Millets, fermented food like kombucha and yoghurt, seeds (chia, flax, sesame, pumpkin), greens, fish, chicken, brown rice, fresh pressed oils, avocado, seasonal fruits, legumes and plant dairy are some of the most healthiest foods one can consume.