Hello Friends,

Hello and welcome to Pungu’s Kitchen! I’m Anju Mahesh Kumar, the creative force behind this blog, where cooking is not just a passion, but a journey of flavors, memories, and creativity. As a working woman, a wife, and a proud mother to a spirited 4-year-old daughter named Shivani (or “Pungu” as my husband lovingly calls her), I truly understand the balancing act of managing a busy lifestyle while still making time to cook delicious, nutritious meals for my family.

I was born and raised in the enchanting state of Kerala in India, where food is not only a means of sustenance but also an integral part of every gathering and celebration. The vibrant, aromatic flavors of Kerala’s traditional cuisine ignited my love for cooking at a young age. Whether it was my mother’s special dishes or the festive meals shared with family, food has always been a way for me to connect with my heritage and the people I love. Now, as a resident of the UAE, I am blessed to be part of a multicultural society, which has further inspired my culinary explorations.

At Pungu’s Kitchen, you’ll discover a unique fusion of traditional Indian flavors with global influences that I’ve come to embrace during my travels and life abroad. From the rich spices of India to the fresh, vibrant ingredients of the Mediterranean, and the hearty comfort of Italian pastas – the recipes I share here are a reflection of my own journey as a cook and a creator. Every dish tells a story, blending the comfort of home with the excitement of culinary discovery.

Living in the UAE has broadened my culinary horizons in ways I never imagined. With easy access to global ingredients and the diverse food culture around me, I’ve found that food has the magical ability to bridge cultures, creating a harmony of flavors that celebrate the best of both worlds. I’m passionate about bringing together the boldness of Indian curries, the warmth of Mediterranean spices, the freshness of salads, and the comforting richness of Italian dishes, to name just a few. Pungu’s Kitchen is where these global flavors meet traditional recipes, creating a treasure trove of dishes for every occasion and taste.

Cooking, for me, is more than just preparing a meal – it’s a form of self-expression. It’s an art, a way to experiment with different ingredients, techniques, and flavors. The kitchen is my creative space, where I can unwind, explore new ideas, and experiment with recipes that push the boundaries of traditional cooking while staying true to my roots. I believe that food is a language of love, and sharing a home-cooked meal is one of the most meaningful ways to connect with others.

But Pungu’s Kitchen isn’t just about me – it’s about you, too. I invite you to be part of this vibrant food community. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out on your culinary journey, this blog is here to inspire you, support you, and share ideas that will elevate your cooking game. I believe in the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to spark joy in the everyday moments we share with those we love.

As you explore the recipes and stories here, I hope you’ll feel encouraged to try new things, experiment with flavors, and make your own kitchen adventures come alive. And if you have a recipe that’s close to your heart – whether it’s a cherished family tradition or a unique creation you’ve come up with – I’d love to hear about it! The beauty of food is that it’s constantly evolving, and there’s always something new to learn and share.

Thank you for being part of Pungu’s Kitchen. Together, let’s celebrate the joy of cooking, the love for good food, and the memories we create around the table. I’m so glad you’ve joined me on this flavorful journey, and I can’t wait to continue sharing delicious recipes and culinary inspiration with you.

Happy cooking and happy sharing!

Anju Mahesh Kumar
Culinary Director, Pungu’s Kitchen