Elizabeth Haigh, born in Singapore on July 5, 1988, was raised by her Singaporean mother and English father in England. Haigh's cultural background greatly influenced her cooking style, blending flavors from both East and West.
Haigh's passion for food began at a young age, but her journey to becoming a renowned chef took a few unexpected turns. She originally studied architecture at Central St. Martin's in London, where she honed her eye for detail and design. However, Haigh soon realized that her true calling was in the kitchen.
After completing her architecture degree, Haigh decided to pursue her culinary dreams and enrolled in cooking classes at Westminster Kingsway College. It was here that she discovered her knack for combining ingredients and creating unique dishes that captivated the palate.
In 2011, Haigh took a leap of faith and decided to compete on the popular cooking show, MasterChef. Although she was eliminated early in the season, her talent and determination caught the attention of viewers and fellow contestants.
Following her time on MasterChef, Haigh dedicated herself to honing her skills in the kitchen. She joined the team at Pidgin, a prestigious London restaurant known for its ever-changing menu and innovative approach to dining. It was there that Haigh's culinary talents truly shone, earning her a coveted Michelin Star.
Haigh's success at Pidgin catapulted her into the spotlight, leading to the publication of her first cookbook, Makan, in 2021. The book showcases Haigh's signature dishes and offers readers a glimpse into her creative process.
In addition to her cookbook, Haigh shares her culinary creations with a global audience through her popular Instagram account, the_modernchef. Her account features mouthwatering recipes, behind-the-scenes kitchen moments, and tips for aspiring chefs.
One of Haigh's most memorable career moments came when she learned the art of butchery and barbecue at Neil Rankin's Smokehouse restaurant. Haigh's determination to master every aspect of cooking, regardless of traditional gender roles, impressed her colleagues and solidified her reputation as a fearless chef.
Outside of the kitchen, Haigh enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new culinary experiences. She credits her multicultural upbringing for shaping her palate and inspiring her unique approach to cooking.
Throughout her career, Haigh has remained humble and dedicated to her craft. Her passion for food and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to aspiring chefs around the world.
Elizabeth Haigh's journey from architecture student to Michelin-starred chef is a testament to her relentless pursuit of culinary excellence. Her innovative dishes and bold flavors have earned her a well-deserved place among the culinary elite, and her story serves as a source of inspiration for chefs of all backgrounds.