Asma Khan

Indian-born British chef and restaurateur

Asma Khan is an Indian-born British chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author, renowned for her work in promoting Indian cuisine and empowering women in the culinary industry. She is the founder of the acclaimed restaurant Darjeeling Express in London and has gained international recognition for her unique approach to cooking and her commitment to social change.

Early Life and Education

Asma Khan was born in Calcutta, India, into a royal family with a rich culinary heritage. Her early exposure to traditional Indian cooking came from her family, where she learned the nuances of Mughlai cuisine and other regional dishes. Khan moved to the United Kingdom in 1991 to join her husband, who was pursuing a PhD at Cambridge University.

While in Cambridge, Khan pursued her own academic interests, earning a PhD in British Constitutional Law. Despite her academic achievements, her passion for cooking remained strong, leading her to explore the culinary arts more deeply.

Culinary Career

Asma Khan in 2023

Khan's culinary journey began with supper clubs in her home, where she showcased the flavors of her native India. Her supper clubs quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of her first restaurant, Darjeeling Express, in 2017. Located in Soho, London, the restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Indian dishes and its all-female kitchen staff, many of whom are first-generation immigrants.

Khan's approach to cooking is deeply personal, drawing on her family recipes and the diverse culinary traditions of India. Her menu features dishes such as dum biryani, puchkas, and mutton curry, each prepared with a focus on authenticity and flavor.

Media Appearances

Asma Khan gained international fame after appearing on the popular Netflix series Chef's Table, where she was the first British chef to be featured. Her episode highlighted her journey from a home cook to a celebrated chef and her efforts to empower women through her restaurant.

Khan has also appeared on various cooking shows and has been featured in numerous publications, where she shares her insights on Indian cuisine and her experiences as a female chef in a male-dominated industry.

Philosophy and Impact

Asma Khan at an event

Khan is a vocal advocate for social change, using her platform to address issues such as gender inequality and the empowerment of women. Her restaurant, Darjeeling Express, serves as a model for inclusivity and diversity, providing opportunities for women from marginalized communities to gain skills and confidence in the culinary field.

Khan's philosophy extends beyond the kitchen, as she actively participates in initiatives that support women's rights and education. Her work has inspired many, earning her accolades and recognition as a leader in the culinary world.

Cookbooks

Asma Khan is also an accomplished author, having published several cookbooks that celebrate Indian cuisine. Her books offer readers a glimpse into her culinary heritage, with recipes that are both accessible and deeply rooted in tradition.

Related Pages

• Indian cuisine
• Chef's Table
• Darjeeling Express

Asma Khan preparing dum biryani