Sadaf Hussain is a name that resonates deeply with food enthusiasts, culinary aficionados, and anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling through food. As a food historian, writer, and former contestant of MasterChef India, Hussain has woven his passion for cooking and eating into a fascinating narrative in his latest book, Masalamandi. In an exclusive conversation, he shares the inspiration behind his book, his childhood memories, and his unshakeable belief in the divine nature of food.
Hailing from Ramgarh, Jharkhand, Sadaf’s connection to food is rooted in memories of family gatherings, cooking traditions, and the intoxicating aromas that filled his childhood home. He recalls how his mother, Anjum, would grind masalas on the silbatta, a traditional stone grinder, filling their home with the fragrance of freshly ground spices. These childhood experiences formed the foundation for his culinary journey, one that would later take him to MasterChef India in 2016, where his passion for food was displayed for millions to see. “Cooking and eating are both divine for me,” he says, a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates his approach to food.
Hussain’s early memories also include Sehri during Eid at his naani’s house, a time when family and food became intertwined in joyous celebration. “There was a unique magic in those moments,” he recalls. His naani would prepare elaborate meals, and the entire family would come together to break their fast in a warm and welcoming environment. The sounds of laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the shared love for food created an atmosphere that left a lasting imprint on his heart.
For Sadaf, food has always been more than just sustenance; it is a cultural experience, a way to connect with others, and a celebration of heritage. As a food historian, he approaches cooking with a deep respect for tradition, carefully studying the origins and evolution of various dishes. In his latest book, Masalamandi, he takes readers on a journey through the diverse and rich culinary landscape of India, uncovering the stories behind the food that defines regional cuisines. The book blends history, culture, and personal anecdotes, making it not just a cookbook but a tribute to the timeless traditions of Indian cooking.
“Food, for me, is an extension of love,” says Hussain, reflecting on his experiences as both a chef and a historian. Throughout his career, he has explored various avenues to share his love for food with others. From conducting food pop-ups with meticulously curated menus to leading immersive food walks in Old Delhi, Hussain has become an ambassador for Indian culinary traditions. His food walks are a sensory experience, where participants can taste, smell, and feel the history of Delhi’s iconic food streets. Through these walks, he aims to take people back in time, showing them the evolution of food and how it has been shaped by culture, politics, and geography.
In Masalamandi, Sadaf explores the concept of food as both a cultural artifact and a tool for social connection. He delves into the regional variations of Indian cuisine, offering readers a glimpse into the vast diversity of flavors, techniques, and ingredients that make up the Indian culinary tapestry. He emphasizes the role of food in storytelling, where each dish carries with it a piece of history, a glimpse into the lives of the people who created it.
Sadaf’s journey from a small town in Jharkhand to becoming a celebrated figure in the culinary world is a testament to his passion and dedication to the art of food. While he may have gained recognition on MasterChef India, his true joy lies in exploring the deeper meanings behind food and sharing those stories with others. Whether through his book, his food walks, or his pop-up restaurants, Hussain continues to celebrate the romance of food in all its forms.
His book, Masalamandi, is a love letter to food, to the memories it evokes, and to the powerful ways it connects us all. For Sadaf Hussain, food is not just about the flavors; it is about the stories, the people, and the moments that make each meal a divine experience.
Sadaf Hussain’s Masalamandi is also a reflection of his desire to bridge the gap between modern cooking and traditional methods. While much of the culinary world today focuses on innovation and fusion, Hussain is a strong advocate for maintaining the authenticity of the dishes that have been passed down through generations. He believes that it is essential to honor the roots of Indian cuisine, preserving age-old recipes and techniques while adapting them for the present day. His writing, and his approach to cooking, is a gentle reminder that the richness of Indian food lies in its ability to evolve without losing its essence.
As he continues to explore and document the vast world of food, Hussain remains passionate about educating others on the importance of understanding where their food comes from. He emphasizes that knowing the history behind a dish or the story of its origin can deepen one’s connection to it. For instance, he often speaks about how food in India has been shaped by influences from various cultures and civilizations, whether it’s the Persian impact on Mughlai cuisine or the British imprint on the Indian bakery culture. His belief that food is a vessel for history encourages his readers and listeners to approach each meal with a sense of reverence and curiosity.
Though Sadaf is widely regarded for his deep knowledge of food history, he insists that he remains a lifelong learner. He views every meal, every dish, and every interaction with food as an opportunity to continue learning. The process of cooking, to him, is constantly evolving, and his enthusiasm for this ever-changing journey is evident in every conversation he has about food. He cherishes the new discoveries that come with learning from different cooks, cultures, and generations.
Sadaf’s passion for food goes beyond the pages of his book or the kitchens of pop-up restaurants. He firmly believes that food has the potential to heal, unite, and even spark change in society. For him, sharing a meal goes beyond satisfying hunger; it’s about creating connections and fostering understanding between people from different walks of life. In this way, food becomes not just an everyday necessity but a powerful tool for building bridges and breaking down barriers.
The culinary world has always been more than just about the food itself for Sadaf Hussain. It is a rich, colorful narrative that spans generations, cultures, and countries, and he feels privileged to tell these stories. With Masalamandi, Hussain hopes to inspire others to see food not just as a source of pleasure but as a cultural expression that carries history, heritage, and, above all, love. He continues to bring attention to the remarkable legacy of Indian food while encouraging a new generation of food enthusiasts to explore the diverse and delicious traditions that make up the fabric of the country’s culinary identity.