Introducing Saransh Goila, a distinguished personality in Indian cuisine, renowned as a chef, author, and culinary entrepreneur. His remarkable journey, evolving from a fervent home cook to a celebrated celebrity chef, is nothing short of inspiring. A pivotal moment in his career arrived when he reimagined the traditional Butter Chicken recipe, infusing it with his innovative touch, thus birthing the famed “Goila Butter Chicken” brand. This culinary sensation catapulted him to widespread recognition, leading to prestigious opportunities such as serving as a guest judge on Masterchef Australia in 2018. Today, we delve deeper into his culinary world through an exclusive interview with Farvi Wadhwa.
In your experience, what are some of the most popular wedding food trends for Indian weddings this year?
This year, Indian weddings are embracing a fusion of traditional flavours with modern twists. Couples are seeking out innovative dishes that still pay homage to their cultural roots. For instance, we’re seeing a rise in interactive food stations, where guests can customise their dishes according to their preferences. Additionally, there’s a growing demand for healthier options and dietary accommodations, such as vegan and gluten-free menus, reflecting a broader shift towards wellness and inclusivity.
With sustainability becoming increasingly important, what steps do you take to minimise food waste and promote eco-friendly practices in your services?
Sustainability is at the forefront of our culinary philosophy. We strive to minimise food waste by carefully planning our menus, sourcing locally-grown ingredients, and repurposing leftovers whenever possible. Additionally, we work closely with our partners to ensure that packaging and serving materials are eco-friendly. By prioritising sustainability, we not only reduce our environmental footprint but also contribute to a more ethical and responsible dining experience.
From your perspective, how crucial is the menu planning in shaping the overall experience for guests?
Menu planning is absolutely crucial in shaping the overall experience for guests. The menu sets the tone for the entire event, offering guests a glimpse into the couple’s tastes, preferences, and cultural background. A well-curated menu not only delights the palate but also creates lasting memories. It’s an opportunity for couples to showcase their creativity and personality, leaving a lasting impression on their guests.
What, according to you, are the key elements that make a wedding menu memorable and unique?
A memorable wedding menu is one that strikes a balance between familiarity and innovation. It should feature classic favourites infused with unexpected flavours and presentations. Personalization is also key – couples can incorporate elements that hold special significance to them, whether it’s a family recipe passed down through generations or a regional delicacy that reflects their heritage. Ultimately, it’s the attention to detail and the element of surprise that make a wedding menu truly unforgettable.
In your opinion, why do celebrities often seek master chefs to assist in curating their wedding menus?
Celebrities understand the importance of creating a unique and unforgettable experience for their guests. By enlisting master chefs, they can offer their guests a culinary journey like no other. Master chefs bring expertise, creativity, and a level of sophistication that elevate the dining experience, ensuring that every dish is a masterpiece. Additionally, celebrities recognize the value of partnering with renowned culinary experts to add a touch of exclusivity and luxury to their weddings.
Can you share some insights into how master chefs can add value to wedding menus, even for non-celebrity events?
Master chefs bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, regardless of the event’s scale or budget. They have a keen understanding of flavor profiles, presentation techniques, and culinary trends, allowing them to create memorable dining experiences that cater to a diverse range of preferences. Whether it’s through innovative menu concepts, personalized touches, or impeccable execution, master chefs can elevate any wedding menu from ordinary to extraordinary.
What advice would you give to people looking to create a standout menu for their wedding or such events?
My advice would be to think outside the box and embrace creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavours, textures, and presentations. Consider incorporating elements that hold special meaning to you as a couple, whether it’s a favourite childhood dish or a shared culinary adventure. And most importantly, prioritise quality – opt for fresh, seasonal ingredients and work with reputable vendors who share your commitment to excellence.
What do you believe sets apart a truly exceptional wedding menu from an average one?
Attention to detail is what sets apart a truly exceptional wedding menu from an average one. From the selection of ingredients to the presentation of each dish, every aspect should be thoughtfully considered. A truly exceptional menu tells a story – it reflects the couple’s personality, celebrates their journey, and leaves a lasting impression on their guests. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the entire dining experience – the ambiance, the service, and the emotions evoked with each bite.
Could you share some examples of innovative presentations or serving styles that you believe can enhance the dining experience?
One of the most captivating trends in wedding dining experiences is the artful fusion of culinary creativity and visual spectacle. Innovative presentations and serving styles can elevate the dining experience from mundane to magical, leaving a lasting impression on guests. For example, consider the concept of interactive food stations where guests can engage with live cooking demonstrations or customise their dishes according to their preferences. This not only adds an element of excitement but also allows guests to actively participate in their culinary journey, creating memorable moments of interaction and connection. Ultimately, the key is to think outside the box and embrace innovation in both presentation and serving style. By creating memorable and immersive dining experiences, couples can elevate their wedding menus into true culinary adventures that captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression on their guests.
Lastly, amidst the fast pace of social media, how do you stay disciplined in your ideology without getting swayed by fleeting trends?
So the Internet is always full of trends, and people get influenced and inspired to create something of their own, and they latch on to these trends. I think in today’s day and age, being original could mean different things to different people. I think even if you latch onto a trend, you can still make it your own, without duplicating or fully copying someone else’s creation. Having said that, there is always space to create new things. Be a trendsetter. If you only keep following trends, you will never be a trendsetter. And to be a trendsetter, you have to build something from scratch. And I find that motivation in cooking simple things at home because the more you experiment, the more you learn about different cuisines, different flavours, different ingredients and you get inspired to create new things. Travel is a great inspiration for me, for instance, so I use all that travel, everything new that I learned to share it with my audience on my page,and we don’t let trends dictate our content Actually, it’s always the other way around
