FINALIST SHABNAM RUSSO

Shabnam Russo, who lives in north London and works part-time at her husband’s skincare clinic, while also catering for friends and family parties as a hobby, wowed the judges with her Falooda Cake...

Shabnam, who inspired you to cook?

Growing up surrounded by poverty, food was the most precious gift you could give – you always sacrificed your share for someone more needy. Which is why charity is at the heart of everything I do – from cooking for the homeless, to cooking for hospitals, ambulance hubs and maternity wards during the pandemic. My mother, my biggest inspiration, feeds the children sleeping rough on the streets of Mumbai.

Why does your ‘pudding’ stand out?

Ask anyone if they’ve heard of a Falooda Cake, and no one has – because it’s my recipe, envisioned for Her Majesty! Like coronation chicken, I think the flavours and ingredients – saffron, rose, pistachio, vermicelli and basil seeds – are so regal and special. I’m so grateful I could introduce our nation to a completely new dessert.

What was it like to meet Mary Berry et al?

I’ve learned so much! Dame Mary Berry taught me about meringue kisses, Monica Galetti has shattered the ceiling for women around the world… Chef Pizey, the best pastry chef in the world, taught me the art of pastry! To have them in front of my cake, I thought I’d died and gone to heaven…

What does the Queen mean to you?

Her Majesty’s reign has made her a symbol of stability. She is socially tolerant of all nationalities, faiths… she is at ease with a diverse Britain. I can’t wait to celebrate all the positivity that her reign has brought.