By Leigh O’Connor.
Discover a land of vibrant flavours and spices with acclaimed Chef, author, presenter and travel enthusiast, Luke Nguyen as he returns to Australian television screens on Thursday, October 5.
In his new SBS series ‘Luke Nguyen’s India’, Luke immerses himself in one of the most exotic places on Earth taking viewers on a journey of the senses through India, where food, religion and rich culture go hand in hand.
This brand new six-part series sees Luke circumnavigate Southern India discovering the cuisine, sounds and colours of this captivating region, getting to know local cooks, Chefs, experts and loveable characters who introduce him to the wonderful world of Indian food.
"With India always on my bucket list, being given the opportunity to explore its southern regions I couldn’t get there fast enough,” Luke says. "With similarities to Southeast Asian ingredients, it piqued my interest even more.
"The discovery ahead of me I must admit was daunting, India is entirely foreign to me, so the anticipation for everyone to go on this journey with me is personally so exciting.”
From breathtaking mountain backdrops to small towns, hectic cities and sacred waterways, Luke in his own unique style dives head long into the diverse and colourful society that is the Subcontinent.
Visiting 11 stunning locations from the bustling streets of Bangalore and the charming historic harbour town of Fort Kochi, to the tranquil paradise of Kerala Backwaters, travel with Luke through three Southern states.
Along with traditional recipes, he cooks dishes that are the culmination of his Indian experience and Vietnamese heritage – in each episode, Luke gets the chance to experience local regional cuisine and learn classic Indian cooking techniques, such as using a tandoor oven for the first time.
Watch as he undertakes a fish puttu masterclass, makes an infamous mutton biryani in Bangalore and celebrates the biggest event in the Hindu calendar - Diwali – while cooking some of the event’s classic dishes.
"For the viewer, it will be an oasis of the senses. With its depth of culture, history and spicy exotic cuisine, India has left we wanting more of this inspiring Subcontinent,” he says.
Join Luke on his journey showcasing the heart and soul of India, where exploration and gastronomy intertwine in a celebration of all that India has to offer.
'Luke Nguyen’s India' will premiere on Thursday, October 5 at 8.30pm on SBS and SBS On Demand.
