As a British-Indian, born and raised in Surrey, UK, I developed a love for Indian spices and the deep flavours of Indian cuisine. Over 20 years later, that passion has inspired me to create Tuk Tuk Spices, a brand dedicated to making authentic Indian cooking simple, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone at home.

My journey began early. As a pre-teen, I’d rush into the kitchen to watch my mum preparing her famous chicken curry. I loved the way she added spices, and I’d eagerly ask, “Can I stir the spices, please?” It was my first taste of the magic behind authentic Indian cooking.

As a teenager, I’d often cook for my brothers and myself when my parents were away. I’d pull together quick curries, experimenting with spices and flavours just for fun. Looking back, I realise I was unwittingly developing my culinary skills from a young age, driven by a genuine love for creating flavourful meals and sharing them with my family.

Today, I see how Indian cuisine has captured the hearts of millions across the UK. Dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala, Butter Chicken, Korma, and Saag Aloo are staples in many households. However, I also notice a shift: more people are cooking from scratch, especially since the pandemic, as they want to enjoy fresh, flavourful meals without breaking the bank.

However, many of us still find ourselves with a cupboard of out-of-date spices and limited guidance on how to use them. That’s where Tuk Tuk Spices comes in.