### Andrew Kojima

**Japanese Fusion Chef - London, UK**  
**Personal Mission**  
MasterChef 2012 gave me the confidence to turn my hobby into a new career. Now I can think about food all day without feeling guilty: it's my job.  
**Unique Specialty**  
My heritage, my upbringing and my imagination set me apart. Half Japanese, half Scottish. It shows in my cooking: cerebral, visual and eclectic.  
**Other Passions**  
I am inspired by nature and human creativity.  
**Website** [http://kojcooks.co.uk](http://kojcooks.co.uk/)

### Expertise
- [Japanese](/content/cooking/japanese/index.html)
- [British](/content/cooking/british/index.html)

With half a foot in Japan and the other half in Scotland, Andrew "Koj" Kojima's interesting background makes him stand out as a truly unique chef in the field. Persuaded by his close circle of friends he applied to be on MasterChef, UK (2012). Reaching the final gave him a multitude of amazing experiences, getting the chance to cook in Thailand for a 92 year old Thai Prince as well as completing stints in a number of prestigious European restaurants. Since then Koj left his career in finance to continue developing his intriguing blend of cooking.

### Credentials
- MasterChef, UK Finalist, 2012
- Le Gavroche, London Commis Chef
- Oud Sluis Commis Chef
- The Ledbury Commis Chef

### Videos

1. **[Wasabi Crusted Lamb Chops](/content/cooking/video/wasabi-crusted-lamb-chops-with-tomato-and-mint/52faae5498baf5057f067532/index.html)**  
     
   Duration: 12:06

2. **[Hazelnut Panna Cotta](/content/cooking/video/hazelnut-panna-cotta-with-pear-and-chocolate/5305c75c35205c3510010337/index.html)**  
     
   Duration: 12:54

3. **[Quail Yakitori with Leeks](/content/cooking/video/quail-yakitori-with-baby-leeks-and-cauliflower/52fbdc37aae19ff14a042a55/index.html)**  
     
   Duration: 10:17

4. **[Sesame Crackers & Hummus](/content/cooking/video/sesame-cracker-and-soybean-hummus-appetizers/516989e1474bd9214a007840/index.html)**  
     
   Duration: 8:23

5. **[Seared Venison with Miso](/content/cooking/video/seared-venison-with-watercress-and-miso-mustard/516b4015ed003c6678004741/index.html)**  
     
   Duration: 7:26