Payal Patel

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

My mom has always been my biggest inspiration in the kitchen. Watching her cook with love and creativity made me fall in love with the art of food. She taught me that cooking isn’t just about making meals—it’s about bringing people together, creating memories, and expressing care through every dish. Her passion and skill continue to inspire me every time I step into the kitchen.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

My all-time favorite dish to make is paneer tikka tacos. I love mixing Hispanic and Indian flavors to create unique fusion dishes. These tacos bring together smoky, spiced paneer tikka with a crisp cabbage slaw made of cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and onions, all topped with a refreshing mint-jalapeño chutney and a creamy chipotle mayo. The combination of bold Indian spices with the vibrant, zesty elements of Mexican cuisine makes every bite an explosion of flavor!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’m extremely passionate about women’s health, and with $25,000, I would first put some toward paying off my nursing student loans. Beyond that, I’m passionate about creating a nontoxic kitchen and promoting healthy eating because food truly has the power to heal. Hormone health starts with our diet, and I want to invest in high-quality, clean cookware, organic ingredients, and educational resources to help others understand how nourishing foods can support balanced hormones an