Getting to know expert Persian chef and Masterchef finalist Afsaneh Kaviani
Meet chef Afsaneh Kaviani who tutors our Popular Persian Cookery Classes
On our news page you will see a series of blogs where we introduce some of our regular guest chefs and tutors here at the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School. This way you can understand a little bit more about our tutors before partaking in one of our cookery courses.
In this edition it is the turn of well-loved Persian chef, Afsaneh Kaviani. Afsaneh tutors our ‘Persian Kitchen’ classes which are extremely popular with students commenting on her calm nature and extensive knowledge of authentic Persian cooking.
Afsaneh was born in Iran and came to live in the UK in the late 1970’s.
We asked her a few questions about herself and here is what she had to say:
“I have always loved cooking, I would call myself an enthusiastic home cook rather than a chef… I decided to introduce Persian food to people after realising that people really don’t know about true home cooked Persian food the way we do at home. I did this though my supper clubs, private dinner, demonstrations and later, cookery classes.”
What are your earliest memories of food and cooking?
“My earliest memories of food would take me back to my childhood… Watching my Mum, Aunties and Grandma cooking together every weekend when all the family got together. The excitement of seeing the table filled with lots of delicious and colourful dishes, and of course the aspect of sharing it. This is very important in our culture.”
Afsaneh’s achievements
“I have not been trained a chef as such, but I have undertaken some cookery and pastry courses many years ago. The best training for me was watching and learning from my Mum!
Talking of documented achievements, I must mention MasterChef 2012 when I was a finalist in the BBC TV show. This was a special time for me showcasing wonderful Persian Cuisine to the public. I am also proud to say that I won the best world food award with the Yorkshire Evening Post in 2019.
All this aside though my greatest is when I see my diners/students are really interested to find out more about the cuisine and the Persian culture. I absolutely love it when I see them enjoying the food and they want to cook it themselves at home.”
Which foods get you really excited?
“I love all aspects of cooking and I enjoy most if not all world foods when they are cooked well. But as an Iranian… we are feeders… so I do really love cooking for people most of all.”
Who has inspired you throughout your career?
“My mother and my grandmother have inspired me the most. I have worked with many chefs in different kitchens throughout the years, but the most inspiring are the ones that practice respect for all in the kitchen, as well showing care and attention whilst working with good quality ingredients. These recipes always result in great tasting food.”
Tell us why you enjoy teaching at the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School
“I love working with the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School! First of all, the team are so incredibly helpful, efficient, supportive and fun to be around. The school is well equipped which makes it a joy to cook at.
I also love being surrounded by beautiful green fields. It is so peaceful and gives you a sense of calmness and tranquillity. I enjoy all my classes and love meeting and interacting with the students, having a banter and lots of laughs.
One day whilst teaching at the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School one of my students told me that she went on a round the world trip with 29 other travellers… on the last night of their tour all of them sitting at the dinner table having a Chinese banquet someone asked “amongst all these countries which one was your favourite?”…and all said IRAN! That was a very proud moment for me.”
Look out for Afsaneh’s up and coming ‘Persian Kitchen’ classes here at the Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School. They are very popular and her March classes have already sold out, her next available next class is on 24th April which still has spaces available at the time this article was published.
The Persian Kitchen with Afsaneh Kaviani | 24th April 2025 | Full Day Class | £170
