CURRY COOK-OFF
THE NATIONAL CURRY WEEK
LETS TRAVEL THE CURRY GLOBE!
The heat is on this National Curry Week as six influencers step into the kitchen to battle it out for the title of The National Curry Week Curry Cook-Off Champion. Guided by their passion for food and a healthy dose of competitive spirit, each contestant serves up their best dish to impress an expert judging panel including Chef Praveen Kumar for our Indian round, Chef Tony in our Japanese round, Chef Lalita in our Thai round, Chef Chin in our Jamaican round & Theo - founder of The Chilli Trail in our Pan-Asian themed final.
Hosted by Kingfisher Brand Ambassador Tommy Sandhu and comedian Richard Blackwood, the competition takes us on a tour around the globe in the name of curry! At stake is the ultimate prize: the Curry Cook-Off crown and a £1,000 donation to the winner’s chosen charity.
Episodes release daily throughout the week, with the finale celebrating the champion’s journey and the standout highlights from an unforgettable Curry Cook-Off.
watch the latest episode
watch the latest episode
MEET THE JUDGES
CHEF PRAVEEN KUMAR - FOUNDER OF PRAVEEN KUMAR
Oli Khan MBE is one of the most influential figures in the UK curry industry. As President of the Bangladeshi Caterers Association UK, he represents thousands of restaurants and caterers nationwide, championing the heritage of Bangladeshi cuisine while supporting innovation and growth across the sector.
A chef, restaurateur, and community leader, Oli’s contributions to hospitality were recognised with an MBE. His leadership, passion, and commitment to the curry industry make him a vital voice on the National Curry Week judging panel.
CHEF TONY - PRIVATE CHEF SPECIALISING IN JAPANESE CUISINE
Mitu Choudhury is a prominent figure in the UK curry industry, serving as Secretary General of the Bangladeshi Caterers Association UK. She plays a key role in representing and supporting Bangladeshi restaurants and caterers across the country, advocating for the sector while helping drive innovation and growth.
With deep experience in hospitality and a passion for preserving and promoting Bangladeshi cuisine, Mitu brings insight, leadership, and dedication to the National Curry Week judging panel.
CHEF LALITA - PRIVATE CHEF SPECIALISING IN THAI CUISINE
Ashok Kumar is an award-winning chef recognised for his inventive approach to modern Indian cuisine. As Head Chef at Kanishka in Mayfair, he leads one of London’s most acclaimed Indian fine-dining restaurants, showcasing bold flavours with refined presentation.
He has represented his craft on the national stage, competing in the BBC’s Great British Menu 2024, and has earned accolades including National Chef of the Year finalist (2022) with the Craft Guild of Chefs and Lumina Challenge Champion (2023).
Blending creativity with classical technique, Chef Kumar continues to push the boundaries of Indian gastronomy, making him an inspiring addition to the National Curry Week judging panel.
CHEF CHIN - OWNER OF CHIN’S KITCHEN
He first rose to wider public attention as a standout contestant on MasterChef: The Professionals 2022, where his creativity and precision impressed both judges and audiences. Before opening his own restaurant, Parminder honed his craft as Head Chef at Indian Accent - the award-winning modern Indian fine-dining destination with acclaimed outposts in London, New York, and Delhi.
With a passion for redefining Indian cuisine on a global stage, Chef Singh combines technical mastery with an instinct for flavour that pushes the boundaries of what curry and Indian food can be. His experience and insight make him a valued voice on the judging panel for National Curry Week.
THEO X - FOUNDER OF THE CHILLI TRAIL
With a deep passion for Bangladeshi cuisine and the wider sector, Atik’s expertise and leadership make him an invaluable member of the National Curry Week judging panel.
MEET THE CONTESTANTS
Cec is your go-to for mouth-watering eats and honest foodie finds. From kitchen creations to must-try spots, she’s always on the hunt for what tastes amazing.
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Adam turns showcases the most heavy cravings foods that you simply can’t scroll past. Bold, fun, and full of personality, his content is as tasty as his cooking.
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Naz brings comfort food with a twist! Think big flavours, bold spices, and dishes that make you say exactly that… ooh wee!
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Leeanne brings the laughs and the personality to the table. Known for her witty, relatable content and playful energy, she’s not just about food, she’s about making everything more entertaining. And that’s exactly what she did in the Cook-Off!
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Sunia serves up mouth-watering homecooked dishes packed with flavour and colour. Her page is all about spices that sing, and recipes people actually want to cook at home.
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Rachel is all about flavour-filled adventures! From exploring foodie hidden gems to exciting events/experiences. She brings big energy, big smiles!
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