Pakistani-origin chef Maryam Ishtiaq, from Dallas, received high praise from world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay for her expertly prepared tandoori chicken during the fourth season of Next Level Chef.
Ishtiaq posted a video on her Instagram account showing her interaction with Ramsay on the show, which quickly went viral. In the video, she explains to Ramsay that she is preparing tandoori chicken and proudly mentions her Pakistani background. Ramsay, while tasting the dish, responded enthusiastically: "Pakistan, beautiful. And some of the best food in Pakistan."
As the clip continued, another judge also praised Ishtiaq’s homemade yogurt for its freshness, while Ramsay showered the tandoori chicken with compliments.
"The chicken is delicious. That Pakistani foundation you grew up with is evident here and it's strong. Well done," he said, highlighting the influence of her heritage on the dish.
A visibly emotional Ishtiaq thanked Ramsay and expressed her pride in representing Pakistan. "I've always wanted to represent Pakistan," she said, wiping away tears.
On her Instagram, Ishtiaq revealed that her journey to Next Level Chef began years ago when she first applied but later forgot about it, only to receive an unexpected call inviting her for further discussions.
Ishtiaq’s appearance on the show has garnered attention not only for her culinary skills but also for her representation of Pakistani food on an international stage, a milestone she clearly cherishes.
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