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

Quarter-Finalist

Sandra Dennis-Essig

I bring precision,passion,and innovation to every dish. As an Artisanal Baker & Disaster Responder,I thrive under pressure and lead with ❤

Currently 5

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?

Berenjena Guisada - Dominican sautéed eggplant. I peel fresh eggplants and sauté them with sofrito, tomato paste, and traditional seasonings. The eggplant becomes tender and creates a delicious, savory sauce that I serve over white rice. It's simple, comforting, and made with quality ingredients and care.

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My grandmother, Mama Nena, may she rest in peace. She taught me that cooking is about love and bringing people together. I'm also inspired by the Barefoot Contessa—her approach to simple, quality ingredients and making food accessible resonates deeply with how I cook. Both remind me that the best meals come from the heart

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would launch Lelo's Kitchen food truck, a Dominican restaurant business I've been planning to open. Named after my dad, it will feature authentic Dominican empanadas and traditional Dominican cuisine. This prize would make my dream a reality and allow me to share my family's culinary heritage with San Diego. It's more than a business—it's a tribute to the people and traditions that shaped me as a cook.

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