I have some truly special news for you today if you are a fan of flavour and community.
One of London’s most-trusted vegan culinary experts is returning to the kitchen to host a fabulous masterclass that will leave you inspired, nourished, and deeply satisfied.
If this sounds like your idea of a perfect day, keep reading below to get all the details. Trust me, you will want to book quickly as spaces are limited.
Read more below.

I have known the talented Nishma Shah for well over a decade and have had the joy of collaborating with her on numerous events during my time as Fat Gay Vegan.
Nishma is a wonderful person and a passionate vegan food creator who has done so much to enrich the culinary landscape of London and the wider UK. Her dedication to plant-based food education and her commitment to making veganism accessible to all communities is something to be celebrated.
Now you have the opportunity to learn from this remarkable chef at the upcoming Plant Based South Indian Masterclass at the Made In Hackney community cookery school and charity on Clapton Common.
Taking place in July 2025, the masterclass is a rare opportunity to explore heritage Southern Indian cuisine that has seldom been seen outside of family kitchens. Nishma, founder of the award-winning Shambhu’s, will guide you through authentic recipes bursting with deep, unforgettable flavours.
The class promises a delicious and educational journey. You will start by sampling chutneys and raita while learning the histories behind them. Nishma will teach the essential technique of tempering spices, a cornerstone of Indian cooking that unlocks incredible flavours. You will prepare a wholesome sambhar, create the classic potato masala dosa filling, and discover the art of making thin dosas with fermented red rice and split urad bean batter.
And it does not stop there. You will also make a baked version of the much-loved onion bhaji. Sounds like an incredible day in the kitchen, right?
This masterclass is perfect for everyone. Whether you are a skilled chef looking to expand your plant-based repertoire or a keen home cook eager to master authentic vegan dishes, you will find plenty to love. Recipe sheets will be provided so you can recreate the magic at home again and again.
Classes are communal, with participants sharing workstations, creating a team atmosphere that feels more like a joyful gathering than a formal class. All ingredients and equipment are provided, making it easy for you to focus on the fun and the flavours.
By booking a Made In Hackney cookery class, you are not just treating yourself to an incredible experience. You are also helping to fight hunger in the community, as proceeds support their food security programmes.
Places are limited and will sell fast, so do not miss out. Be part of something delicious, meaningful, and fun.
Click here to book your spot.
Follow Made in Hackney on Instagram and take a look at the full masterclass schedule online.
You can order my book ‘Fat Gay Vegan: Eat, Drink and Live Like You Give a Sh!t’ online now. It has been out a while now but is still a good read. You can also listen to the Audiobook read by me!
You can watch/stream my weekly podcast Tell Me Where I’m Going (Wrong) on YouTube and Spotify.
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