BiBi The Cookbook. Stories from my Bibi

Chet Sharma is celebrated not only as one of London's most thrilling chefs but also as one of its brightest minds, according to Great British Chefs. His eagerly awaited first cookbook comes from the culinary genius behind BiBi, a cutting-edge Indian restaurant in London that has captivated both critics and patrons. Sharma's journey began in academia before he transitioned into the role of a development chef at some of the world's foremost culinary establishments, including Mugaritz in San Sebastian, Spain, and Moor Hall in West Lancashire, England. Drawing from his roots, Sharma launched BiBi, which is an affectionate term for 'lady of the house' or 'grandmother' across India. His culinary creations go beyond simply paying tribute to traditional Indian flavors. As Chet himself explains, while his dishes may not appear traditionally Indian at first glance, they remain true to their origins, recognizable to any Indian grandmother. Sharma's debut cookbook intricately blends 60 of his signature recipes with personal essays reflecting on his memories of the Indian subcontinent, including the cultural influences and flavors that shaped him. Within its pages, readers can explore iconic dishes from BiBi, such as 'Nimbu Pani', 'Wookey-hole cheese papad,' and 'Sharmaji’s Lahori Chicken', alongside his inventive twists on timeless Indian classics like 'Seekh Kebabs' and 'Alphonso Mango Lassi’. An extensive 'Essentials' section outlines recipes for BiBi's unique masalas, stocks, and other foundational elements. The cookbook also includes insights from notable personalities who admire the restaurant, such as Andoni Aduriz, Aziz Ansari, and Hans Zimmer, among others.