Brin Pirathapan, the 2024 winner of BBC’s MasterChef, has traded his stethoscope for a spatula, turning a passion for cooking into a full-time career. Embracing the rich flavours of his Tamil Sri Lankan heritage, Pirathapan has not only transformed his professional life but has also found a renewed sense of happiness and creativity in the kitchen. With his debut cookbook, *Elevate*, he aims to inspire others to make the most of everyday ingredients, creating dishes that are not only delicious but also uplifting.
Leaving the Vet Life Behind
Once a dedicated veterinarian in Bristol, Pirathapan found himself yearning for the weekends, longing for the solace that cooking provided amid the stress of his demanding job. “It was bloody stressful; food was my complete release,” he recalls, explaining how he would often retreat to the kitchen after long shifts, using cooking as a therapeutic escape. Following his victory on MasterChef, Pirathapan made the bold decision to leave his veterinary career behind, immediately stepping into the culinary spotlight.
“I feel like the new self is the person I’m meant to be,” he shares, reflecting on the joy he has discovered in following his culinary dreams. With over 200,000 followers on Instagram, he now shares an array of recipes and cooking tips, inviting others to join him on this vibrant culinary adventure.
A Celebration of Tamil Cuisine and Global Influences
Pirathapan’s cooking is a delightful fusion of his Tamil heritage and the diverse culinary experiences from his travels and upbringing in the UK. He describes his approach to food as unrestricted by geographical boundaries, stating, “I just love flavour—flavour that is bold from all over the world.” His dishes range from traditional Sri Lankan street food like mutton rolls and chicken curry pie to inventive creations such as sambal mac and cheese and peanut butter chicken udon soup.
He passionately emphasises the richness of Tamil cuisine, explaining, “Even within the Tamil culture, different villages will have their unique twists, but it’s all quite rich and deep.” His culinary philosophy is rooted in the understanding that food can transcend cultural divides, and he seeks to create dishes that resonate with everyone.
Elevating Everyday Ingredients
In *Elevate*, Pirathapan encourages home cooks to make the most of simple ingredients. “There’s so much out there that we could be doing with the most basic ingredients to ensure everyone’s eating really vibrantly and deliciously,” he asserts. He believes that delicious meals don’t require extravagant ingredients, advocating for the idea that flavour and creativity can shine through even the most humble components.
His recipes draw inspiration from cherished childhood memories, such as his mother’s tinned fish curry, which he recalls fondly for its affordability and simplicity. “Tins of pilchards can cost around 90p, but it was my favourite curry growing up,” he reminisces. This perspective is reflected throughout his book, where he aims to make vibrant cooking accessible to all, regardless of budget.
Cooking as a Therapeutic Experience
For Pirathapan, cooking is not just a means to an end; it’s a meditative practice that can soothe the soul. “Making a curry is very meditative if you’ve had a rubbish day,” he explains. Focusing on each step allows for a moment of reflection amidst life’s chaos, transforming the act of cooking into a calming ritual.
He believes that the vibrancy of food has the power to uplift spirits, especially during challenging times. “The world is so rubbish at the moment, but if you take this book into your kitchen, the vibrancy itself, I think it’s impossible to ignore,” he states with optimism. Through his work, Pirathapan hopes to spread a little joy, one recipe at a time.
Why it Matters
Brin Pirathapan’s journey from veterinarian to celebrated chef underscores the transformative power of pursuing one’s passions. By focusing on the joy of cooking with accessible ingredients, he not only revitalises everyday meals but also champions a culinary philosophy that fosters creativity and inclusivity. His work invites everyone, regardless of their culinary background, to explore the delicious possibilities that lie within their kitchens, proving that great food can be made with love, imagination, and a dash of spice.
