Meet the Season 2 Contestants: Brad

Brad Mahlof (New York, New York) developed a cooking style that honors both his Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jewish roots. Brad’s father’s family is from Libya, while his mother’s family, originally from Europe, have been New Yorkers for generations. Brad’s mixed background has given him a well-rounded Jewish experience that heartily influences his food. Brad learned to cook by watching his mom and aunts in the kitchen as a child and has fond memories of cooking from a young age.

Now Brad hosts epic Shabbat dinners every Friday night for his friends and family that showcase his Libyan, Israeli and Ashkenazi roots as well as other global culinary influences inspired by his love of travel. Rather than strictly following recipes, Brad cooks by intuition, using roughly outlined recipes passed down to him. His cooking style emphasizes the importance of sourcing quality, seasonal, and local ingredients. Brad is passionate about representing his heritage through food to help preserve and honor the rich and beautiful history of these Jewish communities. Brad’s signature dish is T’becha, a Libyan short rib stew, served over hand-rolled couscous. He has been eating it for Shabbat dinner since he began to chew. There isn’t another dish that makes him feel more connected with his family and Jewish heritage.

Brad’s Recipes

Meet the Contestants

Meet the Host and Judges

Alejandra Ramos

Alejandra is a television host, TODAY Show contributor, and writer. Known for her vibrant, playful culinary point of view, and passion for style both in and out of the kitchen, Alejandra’s ability to inspire in a way that is fun and approachable has made her a favorite with audiences nationwide. READ MORE

Tiffany Derry

Tiffany Derry is a judge on The Great American Recipe. The Texas native is the founder of Tiffany Derry Concepts and co-founder of T2D Concepts, the Texas-based purpose-driven hospitality group behind Roots Chicken Shak, Roots Southern Table and ‘Shef Tiffany spice and apparel line. READ MORE

Leah Cohen

Leah Cohen is a judge on The Great American Recipe. Leah is the chef and owner of acclaimed New York City restaurant Pig & Khao on the Lower East Side. A 2013 StarChefs Rising Stars Award recipient, Leah’s Filipino upbringing and annual expeditions to the region are reflected in her cooking philosophy, which stays true to authentic Southeast Asian flavors while incorporating classical western techniques. READ MORE

Graham Elliot

Graham Elliot is a judge on The Great American Recipe. He is a self-described “navy brat,” has traveled the world and all 50 states, sparking an intense interest in food which led him to attend Johnson & Wales University. READ MORE