Client Guidelines

How to prepare for your session, what your cook needs from you, and how to get the most out of every Bhijams experience.

You buy the groceries

Your cook arrives ready to cook — all ingredients must be in your kitchen before the session starts.

Your kitchen, your rules

Sessions happen in your space. A clean, accessible kitchen sets your cook up for the best results.

Be present

An adult must be home during the session. Your cook should never be alone in your home.

Before Your Session

Buy all groceries before the session. Your cook should not have to wait for you to shop or run out mid-session.
If your cook sent you a shopping list, follow it as closely as possible. If something is unavailable, message them through the platform at least 2 hours before the session to agree on a substitute.
Clear the kitchen counters to give your cook adequate workspace.
Ensure your stove, sink, and fridge are in working order.
Put away any items stored on the stove (pots, dish racks, etc.).
Make sure fresh cleaning supplies are available — dish soap, paper towels or a clean cloth, and an accessible bin.
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, confirm them in the booking notes. You can also remind your cook when they arrive.
Make sure there is someone home (18+) for the duration of the session.

During the Session

You don't need to hover — your cook will handle the kitchen. But stay accessible at home in case they have a question.
If you want to watch and learn, that's totally fine. Just give your cook enough space to work safely.
Keep children away from active cooking areas. Hot stoves, sharp knives, and hot oil are hazards.
Keep pets out of the kitchen during the session. This is a food safety requirement.
If your cook needs anything — a larger pot, a specific container, more paper towels — help them find it.
Do not ask your cook to add dishes that weren't part of the booking. Extra dishes must be added through the Bhijams app before the session.
If something seems wrong — an unusual smell, a safety concern, unexpected behaviour — speak up immediately or contact Bhijams support.

Communicating Taste Preferences

Your cook is an experienced professional — they will prepare dishes authentically using their expertise. That said, a few preferences are worth communicating upfront:

Spice level

Mild, medium, or hot? Let your cook know before they start — not after.

Salt

If you're on a low-sodium diet, mention it. Otherwise, trust the cook's judgment.

Oil quantity

If you prefer less oil for health reasons, say so at the start.

Consistency

Do you like thick curries or thinner gravies? Preference noted upfront avoids disappointment.

Onion/garlic

Some households avoid them for dietary or religious reasons — always flag this in your booking notes.

Sweetness in dishes

Some regional styles use more sugar (e.g., Gujarati). Let your cook know if you prefer less.

Important: Taste feedback should go through the platform's review system after the session, not during the session as demands or complaints. Respectful communication goes a long way.

Your Responsibilities

Treat your cook with courtesy and respect at all times. Rude, dismissive, or inappropriate behaviour will be reported and your account may be suspended.
Do not film or photograph your cook without their permission.
Do not ask your cook to perform tasks outside their session scope — cleaning other rooms, running errands, or caring for children.
Do not attempt to book cooking sessions directly outside the platform. All bookings must go through Bhijams. Bypassing the platform risks your account being permanently blocked.
If property is damaged during a session, contact Bhijams support immediately. Do not handle disputes directly with the cook.
Your cook is an independent contractor, not your employee. Treat them accordingly.
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After the Session

Confirm the session is complete through the Bhijams app. This releases the cook's payout.
Leave an honest review — ratings help other customers and reward great cooks.
If something went wrong, contact support within 24 hours. Do not leave a review without first giving Bhijams a chance to resolve the issue.
Store all cooked food in the fridge within 2 hours if your cook hasn't already done so.
Reheating tip: Curries reheat best in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water, not in the microwave.

Have a question?

Browse our FAQ for quick answers or reach out to support and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

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