A BUSINESSWOMAN and mum-of-two will appear on BBC One’s MasterChef tonight.


Moonira Hingotwala, from Blackburn, has had a passion for cooking ever since her mother started teaching her traditional family recipes when she was nine.

Ms Hingotwala, who is a pharmacist and owns two pharmacys in Blackburn, has always cooked for large numbers at family events and gatherings, but it wasn't until her son suggested she try to get on television that she considered applying for MasterChef.

“My son has been on TV before and he was really encouraging me to apply for MasterChef. He said if I’ve been on TV then you should too!

“I couldn’t believe it when I found out I was going on the show, thousands of people apply,” she said.

The businesswoman describes her cooking style as 'Indian fusion' and explains how showing her heritage through the food she cooks is very important.

"My mum taught me to cook when I was about nine-years-old and I've experimented ever since.

"I love to learn about balancing spices, and I truly believe that all food is an experimental thing.

"I started out cooking traditional Indian recipes and then starter to branch out a bit more."

Talking about the experience of MasterChef, Ms Hingotwala said: "The whole experience was very nerve-wracking and something I've never felt before.

"Everything you think you know just disappears and your mind goes blank!

"Everyone's in the same boat though and once I started cooking the nerves started to go."

Tune in to BBC 1 this evening at 9pm to catch Moonira in action!