Cook takes on Taste Master SA

Whether it’s authentic Indian cuisine, traditional breads, or flavourful vegetarian dishes, Izotsha’s Kershnie Govender, is heating up the kitchen in the sixth edition of The Taste Master South Africa.

Govender (34), an entrepreneur and the owner of K’s Cuisine has always had a passion for food.

She started cooking at the age of 10, and is inspired by her parents and grandparents.

She developed a passion for converting traditional recipes by giving them a modern twist, elevating the familiar into something fresh and exciting, while still honouring her roots.

Food has always been her family’s language, it’s how they express love, celebrate milestones and bring everyone together.

Family
“My family is my biggest inspiration. Their belief in me gave me the courage to enter this competition. I also wanted to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself, not only for the experience, but as a personal journey of growth. This is my way of proving that the sky is the limit and that we are capable of achieving anything we truly believe in.”

Govender enjoys cooking a variety of cuisines, but her heart lies in Indian dishes. She loves putting her own touch on the recipes that have been passed down generations.

She has a Diploma in marketing, and at one point, worked at her dad’s construction business, however, her passion for food never faded. Eventually, she followed her heart and opened her own catering company. While she may not have formal culinary training, her experience comes from years of hands-on cooking, learning from family and a love for creating beautiful dishes.

A-game
“My strategy is to stay positive, remain calm under pressure, and to trust my heart. I believe in bringing my A-game, staying focused, passionate and true to who I am as a cook. It’s tough, especially going up against professional chefs. I remind myself to leave room for disappointment and not to be too hard on myself, while I’m focused and working towards a win. I strongly believe that through this journey, I’ve already won by gaining experience and growth. “

Govender believes time management and multi-tasking are key in high-pressure situations. “It’s not easy, especially with the lights, cameras and the people around me. However, I am learning how to handle it all and using positive affirmations to remind myself that I’ve got this “

Her favourite savoury dish is creamy chicken and prawn pasta. When it comes to baking, she loves making a moist carrot cake. “It’s a crowd favourite – the warmth of cinnamon, the freshness of carrots and the crunch of nuts.”

Challenges
The competition does have its share of challenges. “It’s challenging, especially when things don’t go according to plan. Being an emotional and social person, many will probably witness a few tears. I’m learning to push through those emotions and remind myself to stay calm. With each challenge, I’m becoming more confident in trusting my instincts, thinking creatively and staying focused on the bigger picture. I know my community is rooting for me and I carry that encouragement with me every step of this journey.”

Catch Kershnie on SABC 2 on Tuesdays at 19:30.

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