Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000

Quarter-Finalist

Kadian Nellums

I have a Passion for creative dishes, dedication to culinary excellence, and just making people happy through food.

Currently 11

in the Quarter-Finals

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LIMITED-TIME: 2X VOTES

You decide who will appear in Taste of Home magazine, and win $25,000!

Voting for Semi-Finalists ends Thursday the 22nd of May at 7PM PDT

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Who or what inspires you to cook?

My young son inspires me to cook by fueling my passion to create nourishing, flavorful meals that bring joy and comfort. His curiosity about food motivates me to explore new recipes, flavors, and techniques, making cooking an exciting journey. I strive to build a legacy of creativity and love through cooking, teaching him the importance of family, our Jamaican culture, and the magic of sharing delicious meals made from our Jamaican roots.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

My all time favorite dish to make is Jamaican Oxtails with Rice and Peas. I love the depth of flavor that comes from slow-cooking oxtails with herbs, spices, and pairing it with scrumptious coconut rice. Making this meal allows me to celebrate and share my cultural heritage through authentic, comforting food. I enjoy putting my own twist on this classic dish, while experimenting with ingredients and maintaining my Jamaican heritage.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With the $25,000, I would invest in growing my small business by bottling my signature sauces, perfecting and packaging my famous bread pudding, and launching a line of handcrafted lemonades. This funding would help with product development, marketing, and expanding distribution, bringing my unique flavors to a wider audience while building a lasting brand.

James Beard Foundation

Help Kadian Nellums become the next Favorite Chef with a tax-deductible donation. Your support helps create a more equitable and sustainable future in the restaurant industry.

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