Indian Celebrity Chefs and their Signature Dishes

India’s rich food culture is beautifully shown by our famous celebrity chefs who have a power to turn simple traditional recipes into amazing dishes that everyone not only adores but also tries to recreate at home.

These famous celebrity chefs bring apna touch and khaas andaaz to their iconic signature dishes, influencing millions of food lovers and inspiring future students of culinary courses in India.

Let’s discover some of the most influential Indian celebrity chefs and their must-try signature dishes, creating a buzz in the food industry.

1. Chef Sanjeev Kapoor – The Master of Indian Kitchen

A Famous Indian celebrity chef, television host, author. entrepreneur and a brand in himself, redefining Indian cuisine for the world.
His popular TV show “Khana Khazana” ran for over 17 years, through which he inspired millions of people to cook with confidence.
With his top-notch culinary skills, he made cooking easy and interesting and become the topic of the culinary town.

Signature Dish: Shaam Savera
A combination of spinach koftas filled with cottage cheese, served in a rich tomato gravy.
Click to see the Shaam Savera recipe by Sanjeev Kapoor. 

Books and Awards:
He is also an author of multiple cookbooks, including How to Cook Indian and The Yellow Chilli Cookbook, and has won numerous culinary awards, including the Padma Shri.

2. Chef Vikas Khanna – Global Food Ambassador

An Indian-American Michelin star chef, restaurateur, cookbook writer, and filmmaker whose journey from Amritsar’s street food to New York’s fine dining has inspired millions. Best known as a judge in TV Show MasterChef India.

He blends heritage recipes with global influences, often weaving cultural storytelling into his creations.

Signature Dish: Roasted Pineapple & Coconut Curry (Ananas Menaskai)
Roasted pineapple and coconut curry from Udupi cuisine—a traditional, vegan, and onion-garlic-free.

Did you know?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Vikas Khanna launched a humanitarian initiative where they arranged meals for millions of people called “Feed India.”

 3. Chef Ranveer Brar – The Culinary Philosopher

Ranveer Brar, a celebrated Indian chef, TV host, and food stylist, is known for his deep knowledge and respect for culinary traditions.

Started his career as an Executive Chef at a five-star hotel, and now his videos are sensation in many Indian households. He has hosted numerous TV shows, including MasterChef India and The Great Indian Rasoi.

Signature Dish: Dorra Kebab
A rare, delicate lamb kebab from Lucknow, scented with sandalwood.

Books and Awards:
Launched two books, Come Into My Kitchen and A Traditional Twist. Awarded ‘Indian of the Year’ for Chef and TV Host of the year 2017.

4. Chef Kunal Kapur

A beloved judge of a TV show MasterChef India and a charismatic culinary pioneer, he is known for simplifying gourmet techniques and bringing authenticity to modern Indian cooking.

He is recognized by the Ministry of India for presenting Satvik cuisines to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Ms. Merkel, in Bangalore.

Signature Dish: Kunal’s Phool Surprise
An elegant dessert that “blooms” when warm cream is poured over it, also known as Magical Chocolate flower.

Awards

• Honored with S. Radhakrishnan National Media Network Award.
• Won Best Jury/Anchor (Junior MasterChef India) by the Indian Television Academy.
• Received the prestigious Sir Edmund Hillary Fellowship 2012 from the Government of New Zealand in Food & Beverage.

5. Tarla Dalal — India’s Beloved Home Chef

She was one of India’s most loved cookbook authors, TV hosts, and culinary teachers, credited with bringing gourmet and everyday cooking into Indian homes.

She authored over 100 cookbooks, sold millions of copies, and inspired generations to cook with confidence. Her approach was warm, practical, and creative.

Signature Dish: While she had many iconic recipes, her Paneer Butter Masala and Mexican Tacos with Indian Twist are often associated with her teaching style and innovation.

Achievements:

• First Indian to win the Padma Shri for cooking (2007).
• Hosted the popular TV show Cook It Up with Tarla Dalal.
• Founder of a long-running cooking school in Mumbai.

Legacy: Tarla Dalal’s recipes continue to be a go-to source for home cooks, keeping her spirit alive in kitchens across India.

Tips to Recreate Celebrity Chefs Signature Dishes at Home

• Start small: Try a simpler version before attempting the full gourmet recipe.
• Source fresh ingredients: Quality spices and seasonal produce make all the difference. This is a secret to unique flavors.
• Follow the chef’s technique: Their food plating tips and preparation tricks improves even basic dishes. Consider following the techniques of chefs.
• Add your personal twist: Keep the chef’s flavor profile but make it yours.

Final Thoughts

India’s celebrity chefs are more than just master cooks — they are dreamers, creators and storytellers who use food as their language. Celebrity chefs signature dishes are not only delicious but also serve as culinary bridges connecting India with the world.

These famous celebrity chefs have shown the world that food has the power to bring people together, spark passion, and even begin revolutions in the kitchen.

Master the Art of Culinary Dishes with NFCI (National Finishing and Cookery Institute)

The next big name in the culinary world could be YOU.
If you have a creative mind, a passion for cooking, and dream of becoming the next big name among celebrity chefs in the culinary world, NFCI (National Finishing & Cookery Institute) is a best cooking institute for your culinary journey.
Learn from industry experts, get chef training programs, 100% Placement assistance and make a name in food industry that inspires millions.

Apply today at NFCI – where future celebrity chefs are made!