INTERVIEW: The Kano Chef Who Has Trained Over 300 Youths in Cooking

…Expert in Over 300 Dishes

By Salisu Hamisu Ali

Amina Muhammad Sani, a young woman from Kano State, has shared how she started her cooking business and has now trained over 300 youths in the business.

In an interview with PRIME TIMES NEWS, Amina revealed that she has mastered over 100 different types of dishes.

Below is the transcript of the interview with our correspondent.

– Can you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Amina Muhammad Sani. I live in Kundila, along Maiduguri Road in Kano. I own a shop at Alhamsad Tower, where I run my business selling food, snacks, and more. I also teach people how to cook.

– How did you start your food business?

I’ve been in the food business for about 10 years now. I didn’t start with food, though; I began with cakes. My interest in cakes started when I wanted to bake one for my birthday but didn’t have money to buy one. I turned to YouTube to learn how to make it. My first attempt failed, and the neighborhood kids laughed at me. That experience motivated me to master baking. I kept watching videos and practicing until I got good at it.

– How long have you been in this business?

About 10 years. I started with cakes and joined various culinary groups to learn more. Over time, I developed a deep passion for cooking and expanded my skills.

– Over the past decade, how many types of dishes have you mastered?

People often ask me that. I’ve mastered over 300 types of dishes, and I can explain each one, including how to prepare it.

– Many modern chefs struggle with traditional dishes. How about you?

That’s not the case for me. I’ve mastered both modern and traditional dishes. My father always preferred traditional meals, so I learned how to prepare them well. I even travel to different communities to learn their local recipes, which I now teach to others.

– What inspired you to start teaching cooking?

Cooking is my passion. If a day goes by without me stepping into the kitchen, I feel unwell. That’s why I decided to start teaching. I also cater for large events and parties.

I even put my studies on hold after starting my NCE to focus fully on my cooking career.

– Since you began teaching, how many people have you trained?

I started teaching in 2020. In the past five years, I’ve trained over 360 people whose records I have, not counting those I’ve trained during workshops and events.

– Have you ever participated in cooking competitions? Did you win?

Yes, I’ve participated in many competitions. I’ve won some, while others didn’t go in my favor—not because I lacked skill but because that’s how competitions are.

– What challenges do you face in this business?

The major challenge is the high cost of ingredients due to inflation. It’s difficult for people to afford things now. What used to cost ₦50,000 now requires ₦150,000.

– What achievement are you most proud of?

Starting from cooking at home to opening my own shop is my biggest accomplishment so far.

– What advice would you give to others in this line of work?

My advice is to be patient and persistent. Success doesn’t come overnight; dedication and hard work are key.