Maryam cooks up tandoori chicken on 'Next Level Chef'

US-based Pakistani chef Maryam Ishtiaq, who's participating in cooking show Next Level Chef, shared a spoiler from Season 4. "When Gordon Ramsay says Pakistan has some of the best food, you better believe it! We are going to the drafts, baby!" she wrote on Instagram on Friday.

In the snippet, Maryam prepared tandoori chicken as Gordon strolled by. "Some of the best food is from Pakistan," Gordon said in the clip. "Absolutely spicy and fragrant."

The contestant also earned praises from judge Nyesha Arrington, who said, "Lovely freshness coming off from the homemade yoghurt, girl! Incredible." Gordon added, "The Pakistani foundation you grew up with is evident here. It's strong. Well done."

The compliments were a pleasant reminder of Maryam's goal. "Being able to represent Pakistan is something that I've always wanted to do," she said.

Maryam announced her participation in Next Level Chef Season 4 on Instagram in January. The show is judged by American chef Nyesha, Top Chef: All-Stars winner Richard Blais, and the one and only Gordon.

After announcing the news, Maryam took to Instagram to reflect on the honour of representing Pakistan at an international level. "I have consistently followed a unique career journey, and I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to turn my dreams into reality while pursuing my passions," she gushed. "My world is about to get rocked, and I couldn't be more thrilled to represent my community on such a prominent platform while doing what I love most! Let's do this!"

The content creator garnered significant attention for this feat. In another post, she welcomed new followers wholeheartedly and shared insights into her culinary journey. "The little girl in me beams with pride over all that I have achieved. I appreciate your unwavering support during this transformative journey. Every share, every comment, all of this has been really heartwarming," she wrote.

She added that growth is essential if one wishes to evolve, believing that everyone has the potential to grow if they strive for it. According to Maryam, exploring various avenues is the key to finding where you want to be in life.

"The road to success is rarely straightforward, and achieving your ultimate goal often requires reaching smaller milestones along the way," she shared. "I have travelled a similar route, and each experience has contributed to me building my own business and pursuing my passion for cooking."