ORLANDO, Fla. – At 19 years old, Melissa Pappas whisked herself away from the chaos of her life and landed in the kitchen.
Pappas said she was in an abusive relationship and that being able to focus on food and creativity was therapeutic.
“I learned by watching cooking shows and reading cookbooks, then later began watching YouTube tutorials. It quickly became something I found a deep passion in, especially with learning to pair ingredients and flavors,” Pappas told News 6.
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As she continued to hone her culinary skills, she also turned to social media.
In 2020, looking for another creative outlet, she started posting photos of her home-made meals, creating “Sweet Melissa Cooks.”
“As reels and video content became more popular, I began recording recipe tutorials and taught myself to edit and post videos,” Pappas said.
The Orlando-based content creator and recipe developer then began diving into specific cuisine — barbecue. Pappas experimented with smokers, grills and even fire to cook items such as pulled pork, turkey and ribs.
“I even had the opportunity to learn from some of Orlando’s greatest pitmasters through my involvement with many local restaurants, which was such an honor. These dedicated chefs are some of my biggest inspirations,” Pappas said.
The opportunity then presented itself to apply for Netflix’s cooking show “Barbecue Showdown.” This is a series where nine chefs compete in hopes of winning $50,000.
Each episode features a unique challenge, from having the chefs cook with wild meats like beaver tail or lizard to making family-style holiday meals.
Pappas secured a spot in the show’s upcoming third season, set to air on the Fourth of July.
She said the experience on the show was great. Highlights include learning and being surrounded by other pitmasters who were supportive.
“I gained a family of people that I have no idea how I lived without for so long. I also learned so much from everyone and made memories that will stay with me forever,” Pappas said.
All in all, with this chapter behind her, Pappas plans to continue doing what she loves: cooking, teaching and creating recipes.
“The main thing I want people to know is that when I share a recipe, I’m sharing my journey and my story with each one. I’m sharing in hopes that others feel inspired, encouraged, and capable. Food is absolutely a love language for me, so by cooking for someone, even my online family, I am serving you part of my heart,” Pappas said.
Check out the Florida Foodie podcast. You can find every episode in the media player below: