Who is chef Lauren MasterChef: The Professionals 2023 semi-finalist?

Ahead of MasterChef: The Professionals 2023, which airs on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from Monday 23 October, we find out more about the chefs taking part.

Introducing Lauren, an Event Caterer at Harry's Kitchen, London.

Name

Lauren

AGE

29

Where are you from/where do you live

Mitcham, Surrey and works in London.

CURRENT AND PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

Lauren trained at Westminster Kingsway College. She then went on to work at 34 Mayfair, in food development at Bakkavor Foods and then into hospitality catering at Bennett Hay. She now works for Harry’s Kitchen, a party design and catering company in London.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO COOKING AND WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT IT?

“I have Jamaican heritage and used to go on holiday there every year from ages 4 – 16. Food was always a big feature in these holidays and brought a real sense of occasion. I was all set to go and study law at university but pulled my UCAS application last minute. This was thanks to my Food Technology A-level teacher who saw my passion for food. She helped me apply to catering college and the rest is history!”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF COOKING AND ANY INFLUENCES ON IT?

“I’d describe my food as bold, creative and flavoursome. I love big flavours and spices. My biggest influence with food came from my dad and sister who love to cook and both taught me the basics from a young ag. They really sparked my interest in food and cooking.”

WHY DID YOU WANT TO TAKE PART IN MASTERCHEF: THE PROFESSIONALS?

“I applied to MasterChef: The Professionals before but didn’t make it past the audition stage. In hindsight I’m glad, as six years later I feel more than ready. I’ve matured, I’m far more confident in my skills in the kitchen and believe all in God’s timing.”

OUTSIDE OF COOKING WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS?

“Sounds cliché but I love to go out to eat and always try to find the niche family run restaurants as they always have the most authentic food. I’ve also found a new love for pilates, barre and fitness classes as a whole.”