Meet the newest addition to the Teaching Kitchen Team, Chef Raj Patrawala, who’s varied background includes both a passion for cooking and a doctorate in psychology. “I love working in the Teaching Kitchen,” Raj said. “I like teaching, I like cooking, and I like not being stressed out, and this fits all three!”
Born and raised in Bombay, India, Raj made the move to the Chicago with his mom and sister when he was 15. He graduated from SUNY Buffalo with a psychology degree, then moved to UNC in Greeley where he earned his Doctorate in Child Psychology.
While going to school, Raj also fell into cooking. “While I was in Buffalo, I had a huge crush on girl was a great cook. I loved how she chopped vegetables,” Raj said. “That didn’t work out, but the cooking did!”
As for his cooking style, Raj’s credits much of it to his mom and grandmother. “Growing up, my mom was a phenomenal cook, so I was always surrounded by great food. Always fresh, always healthy, nothing from a can.”
“More than anything I like being creative, I like looking at the fridge and coming up with options. I also love cooking things where you can’t cheat, risotto, soups, sauces. It’s closest to how my grandma cooks, creating food that is made with love and not just thrown together. This brings me the most joy.”
Raj now makes his home in Fort Collins and when not building his psychology practice and teaching, he loves being outdoors and pursuing his interest in art. “I traded in sports for art and take any opportunity to check out galleries and exhibitions.”
Raj’s favorite pie? “Chicago-style deep dish pizza, no question.”
