Jumanah's Journey: From Aspiring Childhood Dream To Renowned Chef

UAE is a land famed for many things. But one of the domains that continue to stun residents and tourists alike is the food landscape. Not only is UAE known for its mind-boggling variety of gastronomical wonders, it is also a region known for a wide range of food enthusiasts that continue to bring laurels to this little nation.

One such emerging culinary enthusiast who has managed to make ripples in the field of food as well as pose as a massive inspiration to all those up-and-coming chefs-in-the-making is Jumanah Kadri, a South-indian Abu Dhabi based chef. We asked Jumanah a few questions to get a closer insight into her journey in the land of appetising wonders and how she has managed to make it so big in such a short period of time.

On Her Foray into the Cooking World and Inspirations

Its a long story. I was in the 8th grade and one fine morning, during my school assembly I saw one of my batchmates getting felicitated for winning a pickle making contest. I used to love watching my mom and grandma cook and that day, I asked my mom if I could participate too. My grandma's pickle was our family favourite and she was happy to teach me after which I went back to school to register my name. Unfortunately, it was supposedly not possible for two students from same school to participate in the same category. Thus, I was registered under the category of 'Economic and Nutritious Food Items'. That was the beginning of my cooking journey. Of course my mom, grandma and my teacher Ms. Dazy were my mentors and my dad and brother, pillars of support. My husband Razdan and my mother in law Dr. Noorjehan who collects cookery books, unique ingredients, and utensils are now the strongest pillars of support to me now

On the Role of Technology in Amplifying Her Craft

Of course, technology has played a vital role in my transformation and upskilling. Earlier, I used to cook only when I felt stressed or bored. Then, with opportunities from TV channels, it turned out that I started trying recipes for shows. Even then, the opportunities to learn different cooking methods, variety of ingredients, and garnishes that make dishes more presentable were very rare and limited to magazine pictures and star hotel visit opportunities. But with widespread technology and social media, made it lot more interesting. From recipes that inspire, ingredients at one's finger tips, and platforms and channels to portray your favourite dishes, it had shifted gears from normal cooking to a lab of experiments.

On the Impact of the Landscape of Middle East on Her Growth

UAE, with all its variety of ingredients from around the world and with multi cuisine restaurants that are easily and economically accessible, I got the chance to experiment with different fusion recipes. Moreover, the community we belong to inspire for more and more culinary experiments. I always see cooking as a skill that needs influence or is an influence of culture and emotions. As I always say, cooking is an art and the one who cooks with one's heart paints the best piece. With different nationalities, a wide variety of culture, inspiration around you is a daily thing in UAE. UAE's hospitality has also inspired me a lot. When my Emirati friends enjoy my spicy Indian food with tears in eyes and beautiful smiles, Alhmdulillah, it makes my day

On Her Typical Procedure for Developing a Recipe

A: Its a bit weird though that most of my recipes are shaped during my sleep. I think about certain combinations that would taste good, wake up and try them. I should admit its not always a hit and there were many failed ones.

On the Role of Her Children in Her Journey as a Chef

A: They inspire me and there were days when i wondered how come they are able to wait for me so patiently, specially during my shows and events. The support they render is everything to me. They are ready to compromise weekends and they wait and enjoy the dishes I prepare for shows. Both My daughter Jehan and son Adnan enjoy cooking. Jehan also enjoys trying out new dishes. To Jehan, food tastes best when properly plated and her smile when I plate something special for her is my go-to inspiration.

Jehan is a passionate cook; she represented India at the age of 5 during Sharjah Children's Book Fair. A show we hosted together for an Indian television channel named 'Jehan's Kitchen' was one I enjoyed the most from all the shows I've done, with over 500 episodes.