Green Revolution

In the last three years MasterChef India’s popularity has grown rapidly, making it one of the most-watched cooking shows in the country. In its fourth season — which goes on air starting January 26 — the show will have an all-vegetarian format, as decided by the show’s producers, bringing India’s rich culinary heritage to the fore.

“Vegetarian food is very popular in the country. However, cooking it requires precision and know-how. For instance, vegetables such as spinach, green peas and carrots need to be treated differently as these tend to lose colour and texture,” says Sanjeev Kapoor, who grew up in a vegetarian household and who will be a part of the team of judges with Indian chef Vikas Khanna. “In this season, we want to showcase the delicacies that have been passed on from one generation to the next,” adds Kapoor, confident that the 12 contestants will make it an interesting season.

This edition will also see popular television host and chef Ranveer Brar join the judges. “In our country, cooking has always been considered a chore. It’s about time we look at it as an art form. This will also ensure that people involved in the culinary world are seen as artistes,” says Brar, who lays emphasis on presentation.

MasterChef India will air on Star Plus every Monday to Saturday at 10.30 pm