Danielle Stemmer

I cook because it brings me joy. There’s something about watching people take that first bite and seeing their faces light up—it’s the best feeling! Cooking isn’t just about making food; it’s about creating something that brings comfort, happiness, and maybe even a little surprise. I love experimenting, trying new flavors, and making dishes that bring people together. At the end of the day, if I can make someone smile with my cooking, that’s all I need.

My all-time favorite dish to make is Gordon Ramsay’s Beef Wellington. It’s my go-to for special occasions because it’s not just a meal—it’s a whole experience. The process is a labor of love, from perfectly searing the beef to layering the duxelles and prosciutto, and finally wrapping it all in flaky, golden puff pastry. It takes patience and precision, but that’s what makes it so satisfying. Absolutely worth every step.

If I won the $25,000, I’d use it to take a dream food trip—traveling, learning, and immersing myself in different culinary traditions. There’s so much to discover through food, and I’d love to take cooking classes from experts, and refine my skills.Cooking is my passion, and there’s always something new to learn. But more than anything, I’d use this opportunity to do what I love most—bringing people together.