Revelations: Surender Mohan, executive chef, Jamavar and Bombay Bustle

What was your best subject at school?

 

What was your first job in catering?

 

After completing a three-year diploma in catering I started my first job at Deli ka Aangan, an Indian speciality restaurant in the Hyatt Regency Delhi

 

What do you normally have for breakfast?

 

No matter where I am in the world, my staple is aloo ka paratha, an Indian flatbread stuffed with potato, along with some pickle and a cup of green tea

 

What do you do to relax?

 

I love yoga, it relaxes me and keeps me fit and active. It helps both mind and body, especially at the end of a hectic day

 

What is your favourite drink?

 

I am not a huge fan of any spirits, cocktails or wines. My favourite drink is an Aam ka panna, a non-alcoholic drink made with raw mangoes and some Indian spices. It is simple but extremely delicious and refreshing

 

What is your favourite cuisine?

 

I have always loved cooking Indian food and, even today, I feel there is so much more to learn. There is a massive variety of cultures across the country and each dish has its own history

 

Which ingredient do you hate the most?

 

As a chef I don't hate any ingredient, it's like asking a mother which child you hate the most!

 

If not yourself, who would you rather have been?

 

I am huge fan of Sylvester Stallone, so I would rather be him, or at least a little like him

 

Describe your ultimate nightmare?

 

Losing my sense of taste and smell

 

What irritates you most about the industry?

 

I don't like people taking photos of food and then saying that the food was served cold. I feel one must enjoy the meal by eating it rather than clicking it

 

What's your favourite film?

 

Sholay - a 1975 Bollywood blockbuster

 

If you had more time, what would you do?

 

I do a lot of travelling, so I'd like extra time with my family

 

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