Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
Cooking is how I show love.I’m passionate about creating memorable meals, bringing people together, & sharing my love of food w/every plate.
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My signature dish is Cajun Shrimp & Grits featuring creamy Gouda cheese grits topped with sautéed Cajun shrimp and rich Cajun cream sauce. It’s served with a hush puppy-style biscuit made from a cornmeal and flour blend with onions, green onions, Cajun seasoning, and Gouda cheese, paired with a sweet and spicy raspberry jalapeño pepper jelly.
Who is your culinary inspiration?My biggest culinary inspirations are my dad, stepdad, and grandma. My dad and grandma taught me the rich flavors and traditions of our Puerto Rican heritage, while my stepdad introduced me to Southern soul food. Together, they shaped my love of cooking and taught me that great food is about bringing people together.
What would you do with the $25,000?I would invest some of the money, set aside savings for the future, and dedicate the rest to expanding my culinary education. Every new skill and experience brings me one step closer to my goal of opening a restaurant that reflects the flavors and traditions that inspired me to cook.
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