Eddna Samuel Makes History as the Only Indian Competing in Prestigious Favorite Chef Competition. Eddna Samuel, a Jewish-Indian culinary artist and business leader, is making history as the only Indian to compete in the prestigious Favorite Chef competition. Known for her dedication to fostering trade and business relationships between Israel, India, the UAE, GCC, and the USA (I2U2), Eddna is a powerhouse of innovation and cultural exchange. With over two decades of corporate experience, she has excelled as a business matchmaker, connecting companies across borders and driving sustainable growth through innovative solutions.
A Culinary Heritage
Eddna’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in her Jewish-Indian heritage. “We are what we eat, and I believe in fresh, easy, and nutritious food for a healthy living,” she says. Inspired by her grandmother’s traditional recipes, Mumbai’s vibrant street food scene, and her community’s unique Jewish-Indian cuisine, Eddna has turned her passion for food into a mission to share culture and love through cooking.
Her all-time favorite dishes, Egg Curry and Alu Gobi, are a testament to her ability to blend tradition with creativity. “These Indian classics never fail to delight,” she says. “Egg Curry’s creamy, spicy flavors and Alu Gobi’s tender cauliflower and potatoes in a rich, aromatic sauce are pure comfort food. I love serving them with warm naan or steaming basmati rice.”
A Vision for the Future
Eddna’s participation in the Favorite Chef competition is more than just a personal achievement—it’s an opportunity to bring her dream to life. With the $25,000 prize, she plans to launch a line of kosher Indian spice mixes. “I want to create five unique blends using prime ingredients and eco-friendly packaging,” she explains. “These ready-to-use spice mixes will simplify complex Indian recipes, making it easier for food lovers to enjoy authentic flavors at home.”
Her vision is not just about convenience; it’s about celebrating the diversity of Indian cuisine and sharing it with the world.
A Trailblazing Business Leader
Beyond the kitchen, Eddna is a renowned business leader with an impressive portfolio. She serves on the Boards of Directors of Magna Industries Exports Ltd. and represents Vollert Building Technology, a 100-year pioneer in construction innovation. Delivering cutting-edge precast solutions, she drives projects in Israel and New York, shaping the future of building.
Eddna is also a Board Member of Project Carte Blanche, which is revolutionizing education across India. The initiative supports hybrid learning, digital literacy, and skill hubs in 840 schools across 766 districts. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Be’chol Lashon, promoting diversity as a Jewish value and strengthening the entire Jewish community.
As a distinguished member of the Visionary Circle at Elluminate Women, Eddna is dedicated to empowering Jewish women leaders and advancing gender equity and social change.
Celebrating Chefs, Supporting a Cause
Since its inception in 2023, the Favorite Chef competition has become a global platform for culinary talent, uniting top chefs, passionate home cooks, and creative food artists. Beyond the competition, it supports the James Beard Foundation, which is dedicated to celebrating and nurturing the culinary arts.
For Eddna, this competition is more than just a chance to win—it’s an opportunity to showcase her heritage, inspire others, and give back to the culinary community.
How You Can Support Eddna
Eddna’s journey is a testament to the power of food and business to connect people and cultures. If her story resonates with you, consider supporting her in the Favorite Chef competition. Voting opens on 31st March. Visit Favorite Chef’s website to vote and help her bring her dream of kosher Indian spice mixes to life.
A Final Thought
Eddna Samuel’s story is a reminder that food and business are more than just professions—they are ways to celebrate heritage, share love, and inspire others. Whether she’s cooking up a comforting bowl of Egg Curry, driving construction innovation, or revolutionizing education, Eddna’s passion for making a difference is contagious.
As she says, “Food and business are universal languages of love, and I’m here to share them with the world.”
