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

Niki Whittington

30 years as a military wife gave me the chance to experience flavors from different places, and I bring that love into every meal I make.

Currently 4

in their Group

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

Voting for Group Finalists ends Thursday the 9th of July at 7PM PDT

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What is your signature dish?

My signature dish is gumbo. I learned to love cooking through family, travel, and bringing people together over good food. My gumbo is full of flavor, made from scratch, and cooked with patience. It’s the dish people request the most because it feels homemade, comforting, and made with love.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My in-laws honestly helped to inspire my love for cooking. Being around their way of food brought everyone together which made me fall in love with cooking from the heart.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would put it right back into my business by upgrading equipment, buying supplies, improving my business, and promoting my services. I would also use it to help grow my catering and meal prep business so I can take on bigger events and create more opportunities for the community and my family.

James Beard Foundation

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