My Love Story with Food
For as long as I can remember, I have loved food and cooking.
My grandmother Iona, was my cookery teacher and my food hero! For countless weekends and holidays, I sat beside her watching, helping, and learning while she created elaborate meals that graced our tables. Fast forward decades later, and I did a PhD in Education in which I encouraged and analysed the development of "young people's" interpersonal learning through a context that I knew and loved so well... cooking practices.
The plan was to put the findings of my research into practice by establishing a cookery school, an endeavour combining my greatest loves: learning, food and people. However, shortly after completing my doctorate, I was diagnosed with congenital cataract. The subsequent surgery exposed a void in the market for authentic Indian food, as I was pushed into the realm of supermarket meals to feed my son and myself during recovery.
This led to a personal quest I embarked upon, by creating my line of incredibly delicious, handcrafted ready-to-cook products, as I recognised the stark difference between homemade Indian flavours and store-bought alternatives.
Whilst spending many long hours in my happy place — my own kitchen, fuelled by curiosity, passion and the belief that anyone can master the art of cooking delicious Indian food that isn't complicated (but with a little ‘help’), or expensive, I lovingly and expertly curated these ingots of magic.
With a focus on deliciousness, authenticity and convenience, these products will facilitate you to recreate magic in your own kitchen.
So, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Monalisa's Kitchen! If you've followed my journey from Saffron Tree, welcome back! This chapter continues my commitment to making Indian cooking beautifully uncomplicated.
It all happens here — in my kitchen — where I inevitably find myself disappearing to, trying to discover what truly brings me happiness on a plate, and simple yet exciting ways of sharing it with you all.
Thank you for being on this journey with me.
I know you're going to love it!
Xx
Monalisa
Let customers speak for us
I have had several masala orders from MonaLisa. All have been excellent and take all the labour out of producing a curry. My grown up sons are fans as well. In fact, once an order comes in they raid my cupboard!!
Brilliant set of Masala's ...... perfect as always!
Superb rice just follow the instructions for a taste delight.
Just follow the instructions and enjoy the best Bombay Potatoes ever.
Bought as a gift and response has been fantastic.
Best pulao rice I’ve ever made at home. Restaurant quality with easy to follow instructions, highly recommend!
Wonderful spices and paste. Makes cooking excellent curries easy!
Absolutely beautiful. The nicest curry I have tasted in a long time
One of my absolute favourites. Subtle spicing, very tasty
These Masala pastes are the best ready made products to buy. Truly authentic taste and consistency. Every jar has its own distinct flavour. Our Asian neighbours bought us the five jar box as a Christmas gift, which is a true recommendation in itself.
Always like ordering from Mona Lisa; top quality, so it’s my number one choice for rice and spices.
Great tasting curries and pulao rice perfect accompaniment.
Easy instructions. Adaptable to any meat or vegetable. Tastes authentic and delicious - a perfect curry. It’s a big yes from us!
Delicious and easy to use.