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Chef Guntas Sethi explores how storytelling, conscious eating, and premium European ingredients are reshaping India’s modern culinary landscape
From innovative desserts to conscious ingredient choices, Chef Guntas is leading a delicious revolution—one that proves food is, indeed, much more than just food.
In an era where food is more than just sustenance, Chef Guntas Sethi stands at the intersection of tradition, innovation, and conscious consumption. As the Indian ambassador for the European Union’s ‘More Than Food’ campaign, the celebrated chef and dessert specialist is championing a new narrative—one that fuses culinary excellence with sustainability, authenticity, and cross-cultural connection.
Shifting Palates and Evolving Preferences
“Gone are the days of multi-cuisine restaurants offering Indianized global dishes,” says Chef Guntas. “Today, the Indian food scene is increasingly led by focused, ingredient-driven concepts. Diners are becoming more informed, more traveled, and more curious. They want authenticity and nuance.”
From artisanal Italian lemon wafers and balsamic vinegar to handmade pastas and fine wine pairings, European cuisine is enjoying a renaissance in Indian kitchens. At the same time, traditional Indian fare like benne dosa or a plate of Khao Man Gai from Seefah is being celebrated for its purity and simplicity.
Health and wellness have also emerged as major influences. “People want to know where their food comes from,” she explains. “They’re seeking clean labels, sustainable choices, and a story behind every ingredient.”
Dessert as a Storytelling Medium
For Guntas, desserts are more than a sweet ending—they’re an emotional journey. “When I create a dessert, I start with a memory or a feeling. Maybe it’s a childhood snack or a place I’ve visited. Texture and balance are key elements: think mousse with crunch, acidity with creaminess.”
Her approach is both technical and imaginative. Take, for instance, her use of Aceto Balsamico di Modena PGI in a dark chocolate ganache or the subtle infusion of thyme into a fruit-forward tart. These aren’t just ingredients—they’re characters in a story.
Chef Guntas swears by European chocolates for their quality and depth. “The craftsmanship is unparalleled. From Ireland’s milk chocolate to Belgium’s dark callets and Germany’s cranberry-infused bars, these chocolates are rooted in tradition and precision.”
At a recent “Hop into Easter with the EU” event at Soho House Mumbai, she wowed guests with Profiteroles filled with caramelized white chocolate and orange mousse, and intricately crafted Easter Eggs using chocolates from France, Poland, and Belgium. Each piece reflected her attention to flavour harmony, visual appeal, and ingredient integrity.
Why European Ingredients?
“European products give me confidence. Even small, family-run ateliers follow rigorous safety and quality standards,” says Chef Guntas.
With certifications like PDO (Protected Designation of Origin), PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), and the organic label, EU ingredients offer not just taste but traceability. “It’s about trust. I know what I’m serving is safe, authentic, and environmentally respectful.”
Her favorites range from feta cheese PDO from Greece and extra virgin olive oil from Spain to Danablu PGI from Denmark and raspberries from Portugal. “Each product tells a story of place, craft, and care.”
Conscious Eating and Culinary Purpose
Lately, Chef Guntas has been diving deep into conscious eating practices—especially those related to women’s wellness. “I’m inspired by seed cycling and the importance of hormonal balance. I look for ingredients that are non-GMO and high in nutritional value.”
EU certifications like PDO and PGI play a huge role in helping her make informed choices. “For example, Roquefort cheese is not just about taste—it’s a product of a specific region, process, and tradition. It offers not just flavor, but integrity.”
Even in indulgence, Guntas believes food can be empowering. “If we know our ingredients, their source, and their impact, we’re not just eating. We’re participating in a larger, sustainable story.”
What’s Next?
As a chef, creator, and educator, Guntas Sethi continues to experiment and inspire. “Food connects us all,” she says. “Through the More Than Food campaign, I hope to spotlight how thoughtfully sourced European ingredients can beautifully enhance Indian cooking, while honoring both cultures.”
From innovative desserts to conscious ingredient choices, Chef Guntas is leading a delicious revolution—one that proves food is, indeed, much more than just food.
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