I'm Maxine Chikumbo, Cook #34 and a Top 5 finalist on Food Network's 100 Cooks. This page is where I'll be sharing the recipes I cooked on the show, along with dishes inspired by my experience in the competition. Recipes are coming soon!

Episode 4 — One-Pot Challenge

I made a Peanut Chicken Stew with Sweet Potato and Kale, inspired by Zimbabwean huku nedovi—a comforting chicken dish made with a rich peanut butter sauce.

Recipe coming soon!

Episode 6 — Cook’s Choice: Grilled or Fried

For the Cook’s Choice challenge, I went with grilled, making Dry-Rubbed Peri-Peri Chicken with Chakalaka and Sambals, inspired by the bold flavors and communal traditions of Southern African braai culture.

Recipe coming soon!

Episode 8 — Summer Potluck Team Challenge

For the summer potluck, I made Black-Eyed Peas with Coconut Milk, Bacon and Charred Corn, drawing inspiration from Kenyan maharagwe, Zimbabwean mutakura, and maque choux, a corn-based dish rooted in Louisiana Cajun and Creole cuisine.

Recipe coming soon!

Episode 9 — Finale: Stacked vs. Stuffed

For this challenge, I made Moroccan Pancakes with Rooibos Honey Syrup, bringing North African flavors to a sweet breakfast stack.

Recipe coming soon!

Episode 9: Finale | Lunch Challenge: Make Apple or Jalapeño Shine

For the lunch challenge, I made Berbere-Spiced Salmon with Apple Chutney and an Apple-Fennel Salad with Pancetta, pairing warm Ethiopian-inspired spices with sweet, tart and savory apple flavors.

Recipe coming soon!