First Latina MasterChef Claudia Sandoval Discusses Win, New Book

By Editor March 8, 2016 11:38

By: Cindy G. Castillo

Claudia Sandoval is rolling up her sleeves, ready to share her family collection of authentic Mexican recipes with the world.

Earlier this month, Sandoval became the first Latina MasterChef, becoming the FOX Network’s home cooking competition winner of season six. As the grand champion, she took home none other than a cookbook deal and a $250,000 grand prize.

“To be crowned the first Latina MasterChef is a dream come true,” she said during the show’s season finale, “this hard-earned title represents success over every struggle I’ve ever had as a first-generation American … I hope you’re ready America, this Latina has BIG plans!”

Sandoval, 31, is an events manager from La Mesa, California and is also a single mother of a beautiful daughter. She says being part of MasterChef allowed her to completely change both of their lives.

“It’s been such an incredible experience to be able to represent my roots and have that opportunity,” she said, “our lives have completely changed.”

Today, Claudia and her daughter have moved out of a one-bedroom apartment and into a three-bedroom house they call home. She’s also set to release her book, “Claudia’s Cocina: A Taste of Mexico,” on May 10^th.

“I truly immersed myself in this book and I wholeheartedly opened myself up in a way that I continued to show the vulnerability that I showed on the show,” she said. “It’s a very personal book and I don’t think people expect that.”

“Claudia’s Cocina: A Taste of Mexico” will be available for sale May 10th

“Claudia’s Cocina” will offer its readers 65 mouth-watering recipes straight from Claudia’s kitchen, along with some favorites from her family’s town of Mazatlan. It will also showcase some of her favorite creams, sauces, salsas, and step-by-step directions for complex dishes that will help readers master some of the staples of Mexican cuisine.

“I want people to know that it’s ok to embrace their culture, where they come from,” she said, “all of that is wonderful and something to be celebrated.”

MasterChef is now giving talented home cooks yet another chance to prove they have what it takes to make a mark in the culinary world. Auditions for season seven will continue this fall, with open casting calls in Chicago, New York City and Los Angeles. To find a casting near you, visit the official casting website here.