Meet the Founder - Manjula
Meet Manjula Mishra: The Visionary Behind Simply Lentils
In the heart of Australia’s thriving food industry, a passionate chef and entrepreneur is making waves with her innovative approach to healthy eating. Meet Manjula Mishra, the founder and Director of Simply Lentils, a brand that is redefining convenience and nutrition with its diverse range of lentil-based meal premixes.
From Fine Dining to Entrepreneurial Success
Manjula’s journey began in the kitchens of the prestigious Grand Hyatt, where she honed her culinary skills and contributed to numerous high-profile gala events. With over 15 years of experience as a chef and entrepreneur, she has built a reputation for creating superior quality and great-tasting food products. Her commitment to excellence has always been a hallmark of her career, whether it was crafting intricate cakes that brought joy to children’s birthdays in Melbourne or designing innovative meal solutions for busy families.
The Birth of Simply Lentils
The idea for Simply Lentils emerged during the COVID pandemic, a time when Manjula recognized the need for nutritious, plant-based meal options that were easy to prepare. Drawing inspiration from traditional Indian recipes and her deep culinary expertise, she developed a line of "Just Add Water & Cook" meal premixes. These products, made with locally grown Australian lentils, offer a perfect blend of convenience, health, and flavor.
Manjula’s mission is simple yet ambitious: to bring lentils to every Aussie plate in a way that is easy, delicious, and unique. From classics like Yogi Bowl, an Ayurvedic-inspired Khichadi, to LENbites, a lentil burger patty mix catering to vegetarians, her creations are a testament to her innovative spirit.
A Visionary Leader
Manjula’s leadership extends beyond the kitchen. She is customer-focused, results-driven, and always planning for long-term growth. Her efforts have already placed Simply Lentils in 12 retail stores across Melbourne and Canberra, with trials underway in five additional specialty stores. Moreover, her participation in numerous consumer shows and events has introduced her brand to over 150,000 people, solidifying her position as a visionary in the food industry.
Beyond the Business
Manjula’s contributions have been recognized widely. She has been featured in the ‘Chef in the Corner’ segment on ABC Radio Canberra and has performed live cooking demonstrations at events like the Mind Body Spirit Festival. She’s also exploring creative avenues, including launching a superhero mascot for Simply Lentils and developing promotional materials like jingles and figurines to enhance her brand’s appeal.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Community
With a focus on using locally sourced ingredients and creating products that align with modern, health-conscious lifestyles, Manjula is not just building a brand; she’s fostering a community. Her products cater to diverse needs, from busy families to camping enthusiasts looking for nutritious, easy-to-make meals.
What’s Next for Simply Lentils?
As Simply Lentils continues to grow, Manjula’s vision remains steadfast. Whether it’s expanding her product line, collaborating with retailers like Woolworths, or creating new ways to connect with her audience, she is always looking ahead. Her entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and hard work.
For more about Manjula and her incredible work, visit Simply Lentils and discover how you can fuel your adventure with her delicious meal premixes.
