We’ve been keenly looking forward to unveiling our panel of mystery judges for the upcoming awards show and for our very first reveal, we’ve decided to introduce you to this year’s head judge. 

Given that this is the Leicester Curry Awards, it’s only right that the head judge be the ‘Queen of Spice’ herself, Parveen Ashraf!

Parveen is author of her very own cookbook titled ‘Parveen The Spice Queen, Step by Step Authentic Indian Cooking’. She’s also been a weekly food columnist for the Peterborough Telegraph and has hosted television cooking shows, including a guest presenting spot on ‘Saturday Morning with James Martin’. 

In 2019, Parveen presented her very own ten part cooking series for ITV, titled ‘Parveen’s Indian Kitchen’. On the show she showcased the very best authentic Indian food across the UK and India to a global audience.  

Parveen is essentially a home cook and cookery teacher and says the secret ingredient to her success has been cooking with love. She is inspired by recipes handed down from her mother and grandmother and with her own children, she has ensured that family meals are the focal point of daily life.

On the experience of being appointed head judge of Leicester Curry Awards 2020/21, Parveen says:

“It was brilliant! I got to try the best of Leicestershire. Good luck to all the finalists – I’m rooting for you, fingers crossed! Let’s celebrate what is wonderful about our cuisine and our culture”. 

We can’t wait to find out who Parveen has selected as a winner on 27 September 2021!

In upcoming days, we’ll be revealing the rest of our panel of mystery judges, so keep an eye out for updates. 

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