Grand Prize Winner of $1,500 Ages 4 to 8

Eliza Gillespie, 6, Livonia, New York

What’s your favorite dish?
Macaroni and cheese

Why do you like cooking?
It’s fun and I get to eat what I cook! Plus, I like making a mess in the kitchen.

Do you have any advice for other little chefs?
Don’t be afraid to try new foods—I tried mussels even though they were weird, and I love them.

Winning Dish: Eliza’s Gallo Pinto

2 tablespoons Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks
3 large cloves garlic, minced
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
½ red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
2 cups Lundberg Family Farms Organic Brown Basmati Rice, cooked
1 15-ounce can black beans, undrained
¼ cup vegan Worcestershire sauce
½ cup cilantro, finely chopped

1. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat until melted. Add garlic and onion. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

2. Add red pepper and continue to cook, stirring for another 3 minutes or until red pepper starts to soften.

3. Add rice, beans, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well combined. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.

4. Stir in cilantro and remove from heat. Spoon gallo pinto into bowls and serve.