Get to Know Jake Pavelka — Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity Cook-Off

Jake Pavelka

Photo by: David Lang ©2013, Television Food Network, G.P.

David Lang, 2013, Television Food Network, G.P.

FN Dish is counting down to the Season 3 premiere of Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity Cook-Off by introducing a new celebrity contestant every day. During the competition, the celebrities will be tested in a number of different challenges to see who has the most culinary chops. The winner will be awarded the title of Cook-Off Champion and $50,000 for the charity of his or her choice. Watch the premiere Monday, Jan. 6 at 9pm/8c, and keep coming back to FN Dish for exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content.

Pilot Jake Pavelka began flying at the age of 12, and became an airline captain and flight instructor at 23. He holds a degree in aerospace engineering. Jake first appeared on TV as a contestant on The Bachelorette and returned as the star of the next season of The Bachelor. He has also appeared on Bachelor Pad and Dancing with the Stars. Even though he won't be handing out any roses this time, Jake hopes to show there's a more romantic side to cooking. Jake is playing for Tag the World.

Describe your cooking style in three words.
Jake Pavelka: Romantic, spicy, edgy
What's the first food you recall making?
JP: Lemon Pepper Chicken

Who is your favorite chef or food TV personality, past or present?

JP: Giada De Laurentiis
What food will we never catch you eating?
JP: Liver
What's your signature dish?
JP: Beef Barley Stew
What's your guilty pleasure food?
JP: Chocolate

What's your favorite kitchen tool that you can't live without?

JP: Sharp knives

What's the weirdest item we'd be surprised to find in your fridge?

JP: Duck sauce

What music do you like to listen to in the kitchen?

JP: Gipsy Kings

Going into Rachael vs. Guy, who would you pick as your biggest competition and why?

JP: Tiffany! She is very versed and calm in the kitchen.

Why do you want to be the next Rachael vs. Guy Celebrity Cook-Off Champion?

JP: Cooking is one of the most-effective ways to romance a girl. It breaks the ice and it's something you can do together. People don't know that I can actually cook.

Rapid fire: Think fast!
Sweet or Savory? Savory
Coffee or Tea? Tea
Vanilla or Chocolate? Chocolate
Ketchup, Mustard or Mayo? Ketchup
French Fries or Onion Rings? French Fries
Salt or Pepper? Salt
Burger or Hot Dog? Burger
Beer, Wine or Liquor? Wine