From Food Show Champion to Butter Chicken King: Saransh Goila

Do you consider yourself a butter chicken connoisseur? Can you sniff out a truly exceptional rendition from a pale imitation a mile away? If so, then you’ve likely crossed paths with the culinary genius behind one of India’s most beloved comfort foods – Saransh Goila. But Goila’s more than just a butter chicken extraordinaire; he’s a food creator who’s taken his passion for exploration and deliciousness to a whole new level.

Intrigued? Dive into the world of Saransh Goila, where reality TV stardom meets epic road trips, international adventures collide with a love for local flavors, and a single, iconic dish becomes a nationwide phenomenon.

From beginning with Sanjeev Kapoor’s approval to being on MasterChef Australia

Goila’s story began in 2010 when he emerged victorious on the prestigious Food Food Maha Challenge, a show judged by culinary legend Sanjeev Kapoor. This win was just the first course in a multi-course meal of achievements. He donned the chef’s hat again on shows like Sanjeev Kapoor Ke Kitchen Khiladi, showcasing his skills to a wider audience.

But Goila craved not just competition, but connection. In 2012, he embarked on an epic 100-day road trip across India, documented in the show “Roti Rasta aur India.” This wasn’t your average sightseeing tour. Goila delved into the heart of rural villages, meeting families and learning the secrets of their regional cuisines. Every twist and turn on the road became a culinary lesson, a testament to the rich tapestry of flavors that defines Indian food.

Fueled by his travel experiences, Goila’s wanderlust extended beyond borders. His web series “The Spice Traveller” took him to Great Britain, where he explored the unique culinary landscape of that country. This insatiable curiosity to discover new tastes translated beautifully into another web series, “Run to Eat.” Here, Goila combined his love for travel and food, exploring the world on foot, one delicious bite at a time.

Goila’s influence transcended national boundaries in 2018. He was invited as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia, a prestigious platform where he introduced the contestants (and the audience) to his take on the iconic butter chicken. Here, he wasn’t just judging a dish; he was sharing a piece of Indian culinary heritage.

Goila’s passion wasn’t limited to the screen. In 2016, his dream materialized in the form of “Goila Butter Chicken,” a Mumbai-based restaurant dedicated to his signature dish. The restaurant’s success resonated with food lovers across India, and Goila witnessed his creation become a national favorite. Recently, the brand reached a remarkable milestone – 100 outlets! This exponential growth is a testament to Goila’s ability to elevate a seemingly simple dish into a culinary phenomenon.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Saransh Goila (@saranshgoila)

Saransh Goila is more than a chef; he’s a storyteller. Through his shows, restaurants, and social media presence, he bridges the gap between regional specialties and global palates. He isn’t just serving food; he’s serving an experience, a journey through the vibrant and ever-evolving world of Indian cuisine. As Goila continues to explore and innovate, one thing remains constant: his dedication to sharing the magic of Indian food with the world, one delicious bite at a time. Follow him for some great recipes! (But he’s probably never going to share how he really makes the most delicious butter chicken you’ll ever have!)

For now, try this easy recipe from this foodie extraordinaire: