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

Quarter-Finalist

Deepak Kumar

17 years as an Indian chef, opening top restaurants in Central Ohio. Now crafting bold, innovative dishes in my own kitchen.

Currently 6

in the Quarter-Finals

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

Voting for Semi-Finalists ends Thursday the 23rd of July at 7PM PDT

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What is your signature dish?

Crispy Kale Chaat and Taj Stuffed Paneer. Crispy Kale Chaat reimagines Indian street food with crisp kale, chutneys, chickpeas, and bold tangy flavors. Taj Stuffed Paneer features saffron-infused paneer stuffed with nuts and herbs in a rich Mughal-inspired sauce, blending royal Indian tradition with modern presentation. My signature dish, Gulab Jamun Tiramisu, is a bold fusion of Indian tradition and Italian elegance. Soft, saffron-infused gulab jamuns replace classic ladyfingers.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My culinary inspiration comes from my father and my uncle as well as the strong home cooks and chefs who turn simple ingredients into unforgettable meals filled with love and culture. I admire chefs who balance creativity with authenticity and use food to connect communities. Their passion inspires me to create dishes that are comforting, memorable, and deeply personal.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to grow my culinary brand, invest in professional equipment, expand my food business, and create opportunities to share my recipes and story with a larger audience. It would also help me host community food events and continue inspiring others through cooking, creativity, and culture.

James Beard Foundation

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