Who doesn’t just like to eat tasty and delicious food and also make them? The mushrooming of eateries, cafes, restaurants, and growing popularity of food shows have made cooking a career choice.
Chef Shazia Noor is known for her food skills and presentation. MM News invited her and spoke about becoming a chef and media personality.
MM News: How did you come up with the idea of becoming a chef?
Shazia Noor: I have been fond of cooking since my childhood. I also had a lot of toy utensils and use to play with them. My hobby became my profession. They say that where there is a will, there is a way out automatically.
MM News: What was the first dish you made and how old were you?
Shazia Noor: I made biryani at the age of 12.
MM News: Has something happened during a live show you couldn’t handle?
Shazia Noor: It’s been almost a year on TV but nothing like that has happened till today.
MM News: Has anything ever has confused you?
Shazia Noor: No, because there are hosts in my show. They talk the same thing and let me know we have missed this recipe.
MM News: Have you ever burnt food burn?
Shazia Noor: It is not burnt, but once during a live show, my dough did not rise but we covered it.
MM News: How you reduce extra salt in food?
Shazia Noor: I always try to put less salt in my food. If you add extra salt then you can dough balls and reduce it.
MM News: How did you get into media and then become a celebrity chef?
Shazia Noor: I participated in a competition in 2018 and came first. Then I completed my chef’s course and joined media.
MM News: How long was your chef course?
Shazia Noor: This diploma was for one year and it included all kinds of desi and continental food.
MM News: How is your favorite chef and who inspired you to cook?
Shazia Noor: James Martin is my favorite chef. I have also tried some of his dishes. In Pakistan, I like food by Samina and Rida.
MM News: If anyone asks for your recipe then do you tell them?
Shazia Noor: No, I do not change anything and I feel bad if someone changes the recipe.
MM News: What do you cook best and what does your son like about your food?
Shazia Noor: I can make everything well. My son likes brownies and Nihari very much.
MM News: Are you more interested in cooking or eating?
Shazia Noor: I am fond of cooking. I get full by listening to the praise of my food.
MM News: What does it take to be a successful chef?
Shazia Noor: Honesty is very important to be a successful chef.
MM News: Apart from cooking, what are your hobbies?
Shazia Noor: I do painting and everyone at home loves it.
MM News: Why didn’t you ever think of starting a food business from home?
Shazia Noor: I haven’t considered doing it from home, but have definitely thought to open my own cafe.
MM News: Do you focus on extra calories or low-calorie foods?
Shazia Noor: I cook balanced meals and do not prefer keto due to negative effects.
MM News: Do old vegetables and meat kept in the fridge affect taste of food?
Shazia Noor: Absolutely yes. Items kept in the fridge affect the food so fresh ones should always be used.
MM News: What do you like most about your kitchen?
Shazia Noor: I like my Karahi wok very much, the food cooked in it is very good.
MM News: What advice would you give on food presentation?
Shazia Noor: Presentation is very important. We should pay attention because people see it before eating.
MM News: How is your food presentation?
Shazia Noor: I use vegetables and also have flowers on the table. It makes a good impression.
