WHEN it comes to a hotly contested culinary competition, curry chef Mohammed Sultan reckons he has the recipe for success.
The head chef at the Massala Restaurant, in Middlesbrough, is on a shortlist of seven national finalists to win the title Curry Chef of the Year, whittled down from 4,000 hopefuls.
He already has the regional title under his belt after initially winning the Middlesbrough heat.
Mr Sultan has won over judging panels with his creation called chicken royal, which is a roast breast of chicken stuffed with herbs, spices and king prawn pate, and a side dish of spiced mixed vegetables and basmati rice, cooked with carrot, cashew nuts and sultanas.
He competes in next month's national finals with the good wishes of the town.
Councillor Barry Coppinger, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for public protection, said: "Good quality restaurants can do a lot to revitalise the town centre and the nighttime economy. Well done to Mohammed and the Massala for showing Middlesbrough can compete with the best."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article