This Ex-Navy Man Turned Chef Makes The Best Focaccia?

Founder of Humble Beginnings, Christopher Paul Murugiah, is the embodiment of the phrase “started from the bottom, now we’re here.” A former Navy serviceman turned chef, with a background in security and engineering, Murugiah took a leap of faith to pursue his passion for cooking, leaving behind a stable job to venture into the unpredictable world of the culinary arts. Despite the challenges of being a father of three children, Murugiah persevered, working tirelessly to provide for his family while honing his skills as a chef in various restaurants.

In November 2024, faced with the dilemma of balancing financial stability with spending quality time with his loved ones, Murugiah stumbled upon a solution – BlockChef – which provided him with an opportunity to expand his culinary creations and reach a wider audience without compromising his familial commitments as it allows him to start a home-based food business and focus on just the cooking, while BlockChef handles the rest.

One of Murugiah’s standout creations is his signature product, Foccacia, inspired by his time working in an Italian restaurant. This traditional Italian bread undergoes a meticulous 24-48 hour fermentation process in the chiller, allowing the flavors to meld and develop. Finished off with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, Murugiah’s Foccacia not only delights the palate but also offers health benefits. By omitting the use of sugar and incorporating complex carbohydrates, this wholesome bread provides sustained energy and promotes better blood sugar regulation.

As Murugiah continues to evolve his offerings, he plans to introduce a diverse range of products to cater to a broader audience. Through his dedication to his craft and innovative approach to culinary entrepreneurship, Murugiah has exemplified the significance of taking risks, pursuing passions, and finding creative solutions to life’s challenges.