Meet expert tutor for Indian Cookery Sharmini Thomas
Discover the Secrets of Indian Cuisine with Sharmini Thomas, Renowned Educationist and Founder of the Nation’s Best Curry School
When you book on one of Sharmini Thomas’ cookery courses you will be immersing yourself in a culinary journey with her award-winning techniques and authentic curry recipes bringing a vibrant medley of flavours to life. You will gain unique knowledge, skills, and techniques that are not easily found or replicated elsewhere. Perfect for those seeking a truly unique cooking experience!
Sharmini has been teaching at the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School for several years now and her expertise is second to none. Sharmini has earned the nickname “The Curry Queen” from the Sunday Times and her curries secured 95% of the public votes in The Yorkshire Vision Curry Contest.
Sharmini has two half day classes coming up at the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School on Wednesday 16th October 2024 where she is teaching how to make a classic Biryani and traditional samosa’s. To find out more or to book your place please click on the link below:
Sharmini’s Inspirational Indian Cuisine Cookery Class
In our series of articles, we are helping you get to know some of chefs and tutors a little better with recent new stories on Stephanie Moon and Rosie South. Now it is the turn of well-loved tutor Sharmini Thomas. Here is what she has to say…
When did you decide to pursue a career in teaching Indian cookery?
“I got married soon after obtaining my degree in Psychology. This marked the beginning of a fulfilling journey as a stay-at-home mum, a role I embraced fully as my children grew up. As they entered high school and I found myself with more free time, I stumbled upon a part-time opportunity at the City of York Council for an Indian cookery tutor. Excited, I applied, showcasing the recipes I had perfected over the years.
Much to my delight, I was selected for the position, allowing me to blend my passion for cooking with my academic background. When I sought advice from the Lead Manager, about the protocol for the role, he encouraged me to teach in my own style. His empowering words were a pivotal moment for me, guiding me into a career where I could engage my love for teaching and help others learn and gain confidence in their cooking skills.”
What is your earliest memory of food?
“Growing up in Sarawak, East Malaysia, food was a central part of my early experiences, shaped by my family’s passion for hosting friends and family.
Our community was a melting pot of English, Indian, Chinese, Dayaks (native Sarawakians) and Malay neighbours, which influenced our daily meals. My mother, an enthusiastic cook, was always eager to experiment with diverse international cuisines.
As a result, our dining table featured Indian cuisine at lunch and a different international cuisine at dinner, reflecting the cultural richness of our surroundings.”
Do you have a favourite food?
“My favourite dish is a delightful roast chicken recipe, a cherished recipe passed down from my grandmother.
The chicken is gently simmered in a rich blend of spices and served in a lush, flavourful gravy, crowned with golden, crispy fried onions. This delightful dish comes accompanied by homemade roasted potato chips and buttery glazed carrots and peas.
This meal, steeped in tradition, is our family’s Christmas favourite and also carries deep emotional significance as it was the last meal my father enjoyed before his passing.”
Please can you tell us a little about yourself and your career Sharmini?
“First and foremost, I must sincerely thank my husband and children. Their invaluable critiques of each culinary experiment I undertake have been essential to my success. Their extensive guidance in directing my culinary endeavours has been absolutely crucial, and the importance of their support cannot be overstated.
I began my culinary journey by teaching Indian cooking through the City of York’s Adult Education program and, in 2010, I founded Sharmini’s Inspirational Indian Cuisine to promote traditional recipes and authentic flavours.
I am the author of ‘York’s Authentic Indian Recipes,’ published in 2010, a collection of beloved recipes that my students have treasured for the past twenty years and it pairs perfectly with Sharmini’s Organic Starter Spice Kit, which contains key spices that elevate the flavour, colour, and aroma of your curries to an exceptional level.
My culinary skills are deeply influenced by my mother and grandmother. In fact my famous garam masala recipe has been passed down to me by my mother-in-law, a family secret passed on from generations.
Health and diet are very important to me and my recipes are adaptable to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy Indian cuisine. My workshops provide insights into the origins and health benefits of spices. I also conduct bespoke events, utilising my qualifications in Psychology, NLP, and Mindfulness to focus on team building and mental health.”
Tell us about your time teaching Indian cuisine at the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School?
“I would love to thank the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School team for continually inviting me to tutor classes at such a lovely venue. I always enjoy teaching my classes there. Led by Georgina, each team member, with their welcoming smiles, ensures the classes run like a well-oiled machine, always ready to help. And of course, a big thank you to the students who make it all possible.”
Thank you Sharmini for sharing a little of your life with us. We look forward to seeing you on 16th October for your Inspiration Indian Cuisine classes.
Sharmini Thomas’ Thomas qualifications:
City and Guilds 7307 Further and Adult Education Teachers’ Certificate
Certificate in Home Science
Food Hygiene Certificate
Safeguarding Awareness Training
Certificate on Vegetable carving
Degree in Psychology
Practitioner in Neuro – Linguistic Programming
Certificate in Life Coach
Practitioner in Mindfulness
Sharmini Thomas’ Awards:
TripAdvisor Award: honoured with the TripAdvisor Award each year since 2021, including in 2024
Finalist: for Experience of the Year, Visit York Tourism Award 2024
Nation’s Best Curry School in UK 2023 awarded by Nation’s 1st Curry Awards
Crowned Best Self‐employed and Sole Trader in Yorkshire and The Humber 2022 awarded by Federation of Small Business Awards (FSB)
Gold Award for Best Consumer Business in UK 2022 awarded by Best Businesswomen Award
Excellence in Culinary Experiences in England 2022 awarded by THAward (Travel and Hospitality Award) in the Europe Hotels and Tours category
Specialist Cookery School of the Year‐Yorkshire 2022 awarded by Yorkshire Prestige Awards
Best Curry School Award England 2021 awarded by the 10th English Curry Awards
Vision Curry Contest Award 2010 awarded by York Food and Drink Festival, winning over several reputable York curry houses
