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A Life Rooted in Culinary Heritage.

In 2007, Anita founded The Spice Trade, to give people the confidence to cook authentic Indian food while celebrating the rich culinary traditions she grew up with.

What began as a passion project has since evolved into a dynamic, multi‑faceted venture.

About Anita

Anita-Sharma-James-The-Spice-Trade

Meet Anita Sharma‑James

Chef • Author • Educator • Founder of The Spice Trade

Anita Sharma‑James is an Indian‑born chef, author, and culinary educator whose work brings together authentic Indian cooking, cultural heritage, and the science‑backed health benefits of herbs and spices. Born in Punjab in 1966 and raised in Harborne, Birmingham, Anita earned her doctorate from Nottingham University before beginning her career as an academic Research Scientist — a role she held until 2002. Today, she lives in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire with her husband and daughter.

Anita-Sharma-James-The-Spice-Trade

Meet Anita Sharma‑James

Chef • Author • Educator • Founder of The Spice Trade

Anita Sharma‑James is an Indian‑born chef, author, and culinary educator whose work brings together authentic Indian cooking, cultural heritage, and the science‑backed health benefits of herbs and spices. Born in Punjab in 1966 and raised in Harborne, Birmingham, Anita earned her doctorate from Nottingham University before beginning her career as an academic Research Scientist — a role she held until 2002. Today, she lives in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire with her husband and daughter.

Founder of The Spice Trade

In 2007, Anita launched The Spice Trade, an Indian cookery school created to give people the confidence to cook authentic Indian dishes at home. What began as a small teaching venture has grown into a multi‑faceted culinary business offering:

  • Hands‑on Indian cookery classes
  • Live cookery demonstrations
  • Corporate team‑building events
  • Bespoke training workshops
  • Educational talks on Indian food culture and spice health benefits

Her mission is simple: to make real Indian cooking accessible, enjoyable, and deeply connected to its cultural roots.

Author of A Life of Spice – Raksha’s Story

Anita is the author of A Life of Spice – Raksha’s Story, a recipe book celebrating her mother’s culinary journey from India to the UK. The book blends family history with authentic recipes and donates a portion of proceeds to the Motor Neurone Association, honouring the support the charity provided to her mother.

A Journey Rooted in Heritage & Science

Anita’s lifelong passion for Indian food is shaped by her family’s traditions and her scientific background. Her philosophy — that food is our front‑line medicine — guides her teaching, demonstrations, and writing.

She specialises in regional Indian cuisine and the therapeutic properties of everyday spices, helping people understand not just how to cook Indian food, but why these ingredients matter.

Events, Media & Public Appearances

Anita has showcased her expertise at major UK food events including:

  • The Good Food Show
  • Malvern Three Counties Show
  • The Royal Show

She has also appeared alongside celebrity chefs such as Jean‑Christophe Novelli, including as a finalist in a national cookery competition in 2011. Her engaging style and deep knowledge make her a sought‑after speaker for festivals, food shows, and wellness events.

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