Asma Khan: Celebrated Chef and Author Who Hosted King Charles and Queen Camilla

Asma Khan, a distinguished British-Indian chef from Calcutta, hosted King Charles and Queen Camilla at her London restaurant, Darjeeling Express, where they participated in charitable food initiatives. Despite no formal culinary training, she has thrived since founding her restaurant in 2017, known for its unique approach to Indian cuisine. Khan is also a celebrated author and was named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024.

Asma Khan, a prominent British-Indian chef and author known for her London-based restaurant Darjeeling Express, recently had the honor of hosting King Charles and Queen Camilla. Prior to the commencement of Ramadan, the royal couple experienced the warm hospitality of Khan’s establishment while participating in charitable food preparations. Notably, King Charles expressed his admiration for the aroma of Khan’s biryani, requesting a takeaway to enjoy later.

A native of Calcutta, Asma Khan relocated to the United Kingdom in 1996 to pursue legal studies at King’s College, culminating in her attainment of a PhD in 2013. Despite lacking formal culinary training, she embraced her fervor for cooking after becoming a mother. Her venture into the culinary world began in 2012 with a home supper club, which rapidly developed into a thriving restaurant business, with Darjeeling Express opening its doors in 2017.

TIME magazine characterizes Khan as “a ball of energy with a wicked sense of humour,” likening her to the beloved aunt figure of many childhoods. Her culinary offerings differ significantly from typical Indian restaurant fare in the West, earning accolades for their refreshing originality—a distinction noted by TIME as, “the highest compliment.”

In addition to her restaurant operations, Khan is a published author. Her debut cookbook, “Asma’s Indian Kitchen” (2018), showcases treasured family recipes, while her second work, “Ammu” (2022), celebrates her mother’s traditional home-cooked meals. Her international acclaim surged in 2019 when she became the first British chef featured on the acclaimed series Chef’s Table on Netflix. She has also appeared on BBC Saturday Kitchen and Celebrity MasterChef, and in 2024, she was recognized as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People.

In conclusion, Asma Khan’s culinary journey from a Calcutta native to a celebrated chef hosting royals exemplifies her dedication and talent in the kitchen. Her unique approach to Indian cuisine, combined with her significant contributions to the culinary arts as an author and television personality, solidifies her standing as a remarkable figure in the gastronomic world. Khan continues to inspire with her commitment to tradition and innovation, earning her a well-deserved place among the influential leaders in her field.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com