Hetal Desai is a mathematician, engineer, and passionate home cook, blending her rich Indian heritage with the diverse flavors she discovered in America. Born and raised in Surat, Gujarat, she grew up immersed in traditional Indian cooking, learning from her mother and grandmothers without formal training—just by watching, experimenting, and embracing the beauty of food.

Despite her deep-rooted love for cooking, Hetal initially focused on academics, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Mathematics, nearly pursuing a PhD before an unexpected turn led her to the U.S. She married her husband in a whirlwind romance and soon found herself navigating a new country, a new language, and a new life. Determined to carve her own path, she earned another master’s degree in Computer Science and built a career as an engineer—all while keeping her passion for food alive.

Over the years, living in the States exposed Hetal to countless cuisines, inspiring her to reimagine traditional Indian dishes and create innovative vegetarian recipes that bridge the gap between cultures. Fueled by her love for food and her technical expertise, she launched My Vegetarian Roots, a space where she shares healthy, flavorful plant-based creations inspired by her Indian roots and American experiences.

Through My Vegetarian Roots, Hetal invites others into her culinary journey, proving that food is not just nourishment but a powerful connection to culture, creativity, and personal growth.