Christal Gemeda - Lion of Judah Ethiopian American Cuisine

Who or what inspires you to cook?

My husband and I have a multicultural bond. I am African American with both southern and northern roots and he is Ethiopian, but was partially raised in Kenya. We blend our cultures and cooking styles to feed not only our family but the families of our customers who come to our restaurant, Lion of Judah Ethiopian American Cuisine. Instilling a strong sense of both American and Ethiopian pride in our children and building community is what inspires us to cook.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

We make a dish called the “Taste of Ethiopia” it consists of 3 protein choices and an array of vegan sides. The dish is served in a traditional tabletop basket called a mesob and is set upon homemade injera bread. The 3 proteins are chosen from jackfruit or chicken Doro Wot, beef, chicken, mushroom or tofu tibs. It is a large dish that is packed with so many flavors and seasoned with fresh herbs and Ethiopian spices and vegan kibbeh(clarified butter).

What would you do with the $25,000?

An award of $25k would help our business immensely. Being negatively affected by the recent Hurricane in our region, our business took a financial hit but we were still active and giving to our community by feeding our neighbors and providing ice to those in need. The $25k would be used to partially provide our kiddos with additional homeschool supplies as well as purchase our food truck. Having one will help us expand our reach as we are the first and only Ethiopian restaurant in South Georgia