Pooja Hegde

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

My love for creativity, bold flavors, and storytelling through food fuels my passion for cooking. I am inspired by family, culture, and the joy of sharing a meal. The more I cooked, the more I realized that bringing people together over a plate of something special is what truly fulfills me. That’s why I chose this path—to create, to share, and to keep the traditions of Indian cuisine alive in a way that feels fresh and exciting.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

I don’t have one favorite dish to cook—I thrive on creativity, letting bold flavors, fresh ideas, and inspiration guide you in the kitchen. Rather than sticking to a single favorite, I enjoy experimenting, refining, and discovering new combinations that keep cooking exciting and ever-evolving. I absolutely love creating innovative Indian fusion dishes .

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won the $25,000 , I would likely invest in expanding my culinary passions. I would probably use some of the prize to elevate and enhance Saffron and Spice—my pop-up eatery, catering services, and cooking classes. I might also explore new kitchen tools or take advanced courses to further refine my skills. Given my love for innovation, it could be the perfect opportunity to experiment with even more unique Indian fusion dishes. I would also love to support community causes that I care