Nadiya Hussain’s journey from winning The Great British Bake Off to becoming a celebrated food personality is nothing short of remarkable.
In a recent interview with British Muslim Magazine, Nadiya shares insights into her personal and professional journey, offering a unique perspective on her creative process, faith, and family life. When she won The Great British Bake Off, she didn’t have a clear roadmap for what came next. In her own words, she “kind of fell into it.”
Her career has been shaped more by intuition than by a set plan, driven by her passions and personal experiences. As one of the first British Muslim women to gain national recognition in the food industry, Nadiya highlights the empowering nature of her journey. The overwhelming support from fans has influenced her decisions, fueling her desire to continue creating and innovating.
Writing cookbooks has become a central part of her career. While her previous works were deeply personal, her latest book, Rooza, is an especially meaningful project, blending her love for food with her travels and cultural heritage. The book features 30 meals from 30 different countries, including her native Bangladesh, reflecting her appreciation for diverse cuisines. Rooza is a celebration of global flavors, encouraging readers to explore new recipes during Ramadan or any time of year. Nadiya ensures that every recipe is accessible, adapting ingredients when necessary to make cooking easy for everyone.
For Nadiya, food is more than just taste—it’s about memories. Her travels to countries like Nepal, Mauritius, and Thailand have inspired many of the recipes in Rooza, with each dish carrying personal significance. There is also a deep connection to her Bangladeshi roots, with recipes that remind her of the dishes she grew up with. Whether it’s a nostalgic meal from Bangladesh or a favourite dish from Nepal, each recipe evokes a sense of family and tradition.
As a mother of three and a successful entrepreneur, Nadiya’s life is a constant juggling act, but she thrives in the busyness, always finding time to create. Whether it’s designing a silk-embroidered skirt for a friend or writing a cookbook, she finds joy in the creative process. She credits much of her success to her supportive husband, who shares the responsibility of running their household. A firm believer in collaboration and the power of a strong support system, Nadiya deeply admires those who manage it all on their own.
During Ramadan, she takes a mindful approach to both diet and spirituality. While cooking for her family, she focuses on nourishing meals that won’t leave them feeling sluggish the next day. She also balances food with faith, ensuring that her household remains spiritually grounded throughout the month. Nadiya and her husband make it a point to pray together at the mosque early each morning before heading to a light gym session to stay energized.
Rooza is a true labor of love, and Nadiya believes it’s a perfect addition to every Muslim household, especially during Ramadan. Not only does the book offer a variety of recipes to explore, but it also reflects her heart and soul. Its authenticity and cultural significance make it a meaningful gift for Eid, inspiring creativity in the kitchen while strengthening connections to faith and family traditions.
Eid in Nadiya’s household is a joyous, family-centered celebration. The day begins with a unique tradition—her children follow a trail of colored Smarties leading them to their gifts. After presents are opened, the family heads to Leeds to join Nadiya’s extended relatives for Eid prayers and a grand feast. The celebrations stretch over two days, including time with her parents and a day of fun with her nieces and nephews.
Nadiya’s journey is one of passion, resilience, and a deep connection to family and faith. With Rooza, she continues to share not only her love for food but also the values and traditions that make her story truly special.
Read her full interview in our Ramadan Issue today!
COMPETITION: Enter our online competition for a chance to WIN a signed copy of Rooza by Nadiya Hussain! Offer ends March 13, 2025.
Journalist, Editor and Photographer
