In each episode, four chefs pit their skills against time and each other at dishing up meals from a mystery basket of ingredients
“Chopped” is a culinary series which features chefs being tested on their creativity, skills and speed at churning out three-course meals – appetiser, entree and dessert – from common ingredients.
Riveting Episodes
In each of the 13 episodes, four contestants have just 30 minutes to dish up a unique (healthy, tasty or otherwise!) meal using ingredients in the respective basket put before them, all under the watchful eyes of a presiding panel of three expert judges.
With the clock ticking, the chefs have to get past the set time to deliver and impress upon the judges their creations, which are put to the taste test and then assessed. Only one chef stands out as the episode’s winner and moves on to the next round until the “Chopped” Champion is determined.
Hosted by Ted Allen, the hyperactive series is entertaining, especially to viewers who love dabbling in their kitchen. In fact, the series could be a lifesaver for any domestic cook who often runs out of fresh ideas for a quick dinner.
Unthinkable Dishes
To stir things up in the “Chopped” pantry battleground, the mix of ingredients that are hidden in the basket can be appalling. Each episode has its own basket of surprises.
For example, viewers might be taken aback when they see in Episode 1 the chefs being faced with a basket of poultry innards and red miso – a true test of one’s gut feelings for sure!
In another episode, contestants have to do wonders with peanut butter and shrimps for the entree, and then follow that up duly with wonton wrappers and grape jelly beans for the next course!
If you were one of the chefs up there, what would you do to blend gummy fried eggs with corned beef for an appetiser? Would you dare sprinkle espresso powder over flank steak for an entree course?
In Episode 3, you will learn that the chefs have to settle for ostrich tenderloins in preparing their appetiser! Also, the judges were confounded watching a contestant who used a rolling pin to flatten a hot dog bun. You will inquire too, if you were judge no. 4.
Baffling Moments
As with most reality shows, there are baffling moments too in “Chopped”. Imagine having chocolate as a key ingredient for all three courses. Watch the chefs go nutty at creating a dessert presentation out of candy nuts and kombucha.
One episode does due diligence to this American TV reality show by highlighting a US-themed menu. All four chefs keep their “strategy” close to their chests to the very last minute; personal and national pride are at stake.
“Chopped” indeed gives the contesting chefs a hard time. But, hey, what’s a contest if it is not both fun and mean, or challenging enough?
One last poser: Who will be the ultimate “Chopped” Champion to win the US$10,000 prize?
Keep your eyes peeled!
“Chopped” will be screened on Tuesdays at 9pm, beginning Apr 15, on Food Network Asia, StarHub TV Ch 433.
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