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

Monique Cooks

Started cooking at 16, inspired by PBS & Food Network, life long Top Chef fan. I blend homemade flavor with shortcut ideas for real life.

Currently 1

in their Group

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

The first cut is on Thursday the 11th of June at 7PM PDT

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What is your signature dish?

My signature dish is baked beans. It's the one thing everyone always requests when there's a function or gathering. I'm known for them because once people try them, they keep coming back for more. They're comforting, flavorful, and made with love every time.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

I've always been inspired by Bobby Flay, Rachael Ray , Emeril Lagasse, Sandra Lee, and Carla Hall. They showed me how food can be fun, creative, and full of love, and that's what I bring into my own cooking.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the 25,000 to start my dream restaurant. As a mother of 4, I want to build a family legacy my children can be proud of. My goal is to serve comforting, flavorful food made with love in a space for everyone.

James Beard Foundation

Vote for Monique Cooks to be the next Favorite Chef while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting the James Beard Foundation and their mission to lead chefs and the broader culinary industry toward a new standard of excellence.


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