"If you are 200% passionate about cooking, then enter this field", asserts Altamsh Patel

Altamsh Patel, the Executive Chef at Hilton Hotels & Resorts in Mumbai, has a distinguished career that includes significant roles at Hotel Sea Princess, Oakwood, and The Park Hotels. Starting at Taj Hotels as an industrial trainee and rising to senior sous chef, his journey reflects his dedication and skill. A graduate of Rizvi College of Hotel Management, Altamsh’s culinary expertise is well-regarded.

Altamsh's favorite ingredient is mushrooms. He appreciates their umami flavor, versatility, and nutritional benefits. "Mushrooms offer a unique texture that can be meaty, making them a great substitute for meat in vegetarian and vegan dishes," he explains, highlighting their multifaceted culinary applications.

One dish particularly special to Altamsh is Miso Cod. The blend of miso and cod creates a perfect harmony of flavors, demonstrating his culinary creativity and skill in balancing complex tastes. This dish showcases his ability to fuse different culinary traditions into a harmonious creation.

Handling challenges in the kitchen is a critical part of Altamsh’s role. He emphasizes clear communication, thorough planning, and continuous training for his team. Leading by example and maintaining a calm demeanor during busy times are key strategies he employs to ensure smooth operations and high-quality output.

A memorable moment for Altamsh was when he felt a profound connection with the ingredients he was working with, elevating the cooking experience to something almost magical. This deep connection with food underscores his passion and dedication to his craft.

Altamsh's preferred cooking technique is slow cooking, which allows flavors to develop deeply and create tender textures. "The low and slow heat breaks down tougher cuts of meat, making them incredibly tender and juicy," he notes. This method is ideal for creating rich, hearty dishes.

One notable success came from a cooking mishap where a sauce was oversalted. Instead of starting over, Altamsh and his team balanced the flavors by adding potatoes and additional liquids to absorb the excess salt, turning a potential disaster into a well-balanced sauce that was well-received by diners.

For aspiring chefs, Altamsh advises only entering the field if you are 200% passionate about cooking. The profession demands immense dedication, long hours, and significant sacrifices, but the rewards of creating exceptional culinary experiences make it worthwhile. Passion, resilience, and a strong work ethic are essential for success in this challenging yet rewarding career.

Altamsh Patel’s journey, insights, and culinary expertise serve as an inspiration for anyone aspiring to excel in the culinary world. His dedication to guest satisfaction, innovative cooking techniques, and ability to turn challenges into successes underscore his exceptional talent and leadership in the kitchen.