1 00:00:01,002 --> 00:00:02,459 Gordon: Previously on "masterchef"... 2 00:00:02,503 --> 00:00:03,377 Let's go! 3 00:00:03,421 --> 00:00:05,170 ...America's best home cooks 4 00:00:05,214 --> 00:00:07,256 Threw down in the regional auditions. 5 00:00:07,299 --> 00:00:09,341 Hell yeah, the best cook's from the south! 6 00:00:09,385 --> 00:00:10,592 - I'm here to win. - Y'all here for the west. 7 00:00:10,636 --> 00:00:13,262 - We the best. - And just 20 coveted aprons 8 00:00:13,305 --> 00:00:14,555 Were handed out. 9 00:00:14,598 --> 00:00:18,183 - It is an absolute yes from me. - Northeast, baby! 10 00:00:18,227 --> 00:00:20,144 - Welcome to "masterchef." - thank you so much! 11 00:00:20,146 --> 00:00:22,396 - For me it's an absolute yes. - Yeah! 12 00:00:22,440 --> 00:00:25,065 - You're exactly what we're looking for. - I cannot believe it. 13 00:00:25,109 --> 00:00:29,194 - Ha ha! - That is one of the best crab cakes I've ever tasted. 14 00:00:29,238 --> 00:00:30,988 - This is for you, ma! - We did it. 15 00:00:31,032 --> 00:00:33,449 - Yeah! Yeah! - This is as perfect as we've seen 16 00:00:33,492 --> 00:00:36,785 - In 13 years on this show. - He is deserving of an apron. 17 00:00:36,787 --> 00:00:38,787 - Yes! - Joe: 20 aprons. We did it. 18 00:00:38,789 --> 00:00:40,748 Tonight... 19 00:00:40,750 --> 00:00:42,541 Welcome to the top 20, everyone. 20 00:00:42,585 --> 00:00:45,377 - Yeah! - Buckle up. 21 00:00:45,421 --> 00:00:48,213 ...The competition kicks off with a big twist. 22 00:00:48,215 --> 00:00:50,758 You'll cook alongside everyone else from your home region. 23 00:00:50,801 --> 00:00:53,010 All right. Let's do it. 24 00:00:53,012 --> 00:00:56,638 The winner will also save their entire region from elimination. 25 00:00:56,682 --> 00:00:58,223 - Whoo! - Let's go! 26 00:00:58,225 --> 00:01:00,350 - We have the northeast. - Let's go! 27 00:01:00,394 --> 00:01:02,311 - The south. - I'm gonna make sure they right. 28 00:01:02,354 --> 00:01:04,104 - The midwest. - I'm gonna win this challenge. 29 00:01:04,148 --> 00:01:07,149 - And the west. - Let's go, west. Wild, wild west. 30 00:01:07,193 --> 00:01:09,068 I want people to be a little bit afraid of me. 31 00:01:09,111 --> 00:01:12,279 - Not a lot, but a little bit. - ( laughing ) 32 00:01:15,201 --> 00:01:19,661 ( music playing ) 33 00:01:26,545 --> 00:01:29,088 - Here we go! - How cool does this look? 34 00:01:29,131 --> 00:01:32,257 - Joe: Yes! - We got our top 20. 35 00:01:32,301 --> 00:01:34,843 The beginning of a phenomenal season. 36 00:01:34,887 --> 00:01:36,261 Four regions, 20 contestants. 37 00:01:36,305 --> 00:01:38,222 I think is gonna be the most competitive season 38 00:01:38,307 --> 00:01:39,473 - In the history of this competition. - Yeah. 39 00:01:39,517 --> 00:01:41,308 - Gordon: Let's go. - ( indistinct chatter ) 40 00:01:41,352 --> 00:01:43,602 - Let's go, baby. Let's go! - All right! 41 00:01:43,646 --> 00:01:46,105 - Welcome, guys. - ( laughs ) 42 00:01:46,148 --> 00:01:48,190 Let's go, state fair, baby! 43 00:01:48,234 --> 00:01:49,817 - Whoo! - This is so cool! 44 00:01:49,860 --> 00:01:53,654 - Oh, my gosh! - Wow! 45 00:01:53,697 --> 00:01:55,072 Oh, it's so beautiful! 46 00:01:55,116 --> 00:01:57,157 It's so incredible to be in the top 20. 47 00:01:57,243 --> 00:01:59,451 I've got my white apron. 48 00:01:59,453 --> 00:02:01,203 I've worked really hard to get here, 49 00:02:01,247 --> 00:02:04,123 And I'm so proud to be representing the west. 50 00:02:04,166 --> 00:02:06,291 Line up. Line up, line up, line up. 51 00:02:06,335 --> 00:02:08,752 Being here could potentially change my life, 52 00:02:08,796 --> 00:02:10,504 And that's what I'm ready for. 53 00:02:12,258 --> 00:02:16,051 This is "masterchef: United tastes of america." 54 00:02:16,095 --> 00:02:18,387 Welcome to the top 20, everyone. 55 00:02:18,430 --> 00:02:20,222 ( cheering ) 56 00:02:20,266 --> 00:02:23,016 - All right! - Yeah! 57 00:02:23,060 --> 00:02:24,601 - Such a dream. Such a dream. - I know, right? 58 00:02:24,603 --> 00:02:27,729 How does it feel to be representing your regions? 59 00:02:27,773 --> 00:02:29,064 - It's an honor. - Amazing. 60 00:02:29,108 --> 00:02:30,315 - It feels great. - An honor, for sure. 61 00:02:30,401 --> 00:02:32,317 - Amazing. - Well, you all planted 62 00:02:32,361 --> 00:02:33,735 Your regional flag across those auditions. 63 00:02:33,779 --> 00:02:35,529 And tonight, as you can see 64 00:02:35,573 --> 00:02:37,781 By this amazing masterchef carnival... 65 00:02:37,825 --> 00:02:39,783 - Yes! - Whoo! 66 00:02:39,818 --> 00:02:42,661 ...The fun really begins now. 67 00:02:42,705 --> 00:02:44,288 - Let's go. - Let's go. 68 00:02:44,331 --> 00:02:47,082 For tonight's challenge, you'll need to cook us something 69 00:02:47,126 --> 00:02:49,543 Inspired from a very special event-- 70 00:02:49,587 --> 00:02:51,336 The state fair. 71 00:02:51,380 --> 00:02:54,214 - ( cheering ) - yes. Yeah, we got this. 72 00:02:54,258 --> 00:02:56,508 When I go to state fairs, especially in iowa, 73 00:02:56,552 --> 00:02:58,177 I gotta get that bigger than the bun 74 00:02:58,220 --> 00:02:59,428 Iowa pork tenderloin. 75 00:02:59,471 --> 00:03:01,180 Have to get a foot-long corndog. 76 00:03:01,223 --> 00:03:02,890 It's gonna be fried. 77 00:03:02,933 --> 00:03:06,185 And I know it's gonna be delicious and terrible for you. 78 00:03:06,228 --> 00:03:08,228 Now, all of you guys hail from different parts 79 00:03:08,272 --> 00:03:09,271 Of this great nation. 80 00:03:09,315 --> 00:03:10,480 But no matter where you're from, 81 00:03:10,524 --> 00:03:13,650 Your local state fair is probably home 82 00:03:13,694 --> 00:03:15,360 To some deliciously insane food. 83 00:03:15,362 --> 00:03:16,486 Absolutely. 84 00:03:16,530 --> 00:03:18,197 Now, I think it's important to mention, 85 00:03:18,240 --> 00:03:20,774 This is not an excuse to just deep fry something 86 00:03:20,776 --> 00:03:21,992 And call it a day, right? 87 00:03:22,036 --> 00:03:24,036 Because whoever cooks 88 00:03:24,121 --> 00:03:26,205 The worst dish tonight 89 00:03:26,248 --> 00:03:27,623 Will be eliminated. 90 00:03:27,625 --> 00:03:30,083 - ( murmuring ) - ( sighing ) 91 00:03:30,085 --> 00:03:32,211 You will have access to all of the ingredients 92 00:03:32,213 --> 00:03:34,421 In the beautiful masterchef pantry. 93 00:03:34,423 --> 00:03:37,799 Everything that you will need to cook an elevated version 94 00:03:37,801 --> 00:03:41,053 Of classic state fair food. 95 00:03:41,096 --> 00:03:44,097 But, all of you, before you take a trip 96 00:03:44,099 --> 00:03:45,515 On this rollercoaster of a challenge, 97 00:03:45,559 --> 00:03:51,480 It's time to talk about this season's massive twist. 98 00:03:51,565 --> 00:03:53,857 - ( murmuring ) - what? 99 00:03:53,859 --> 00:03:56,193 - Oh. - Huh. Okay. 100 00:03:56,278 --> 00:03:59,321 We wanna learn how the place that you call home 101 00:03:59,365 --> 00:04:02,199 Has really influenced your food. 102 00:04:02,284 --> 00:04:05,077 So starting from tonight, you'll cook alongside 103 00:04:05,120 --> 00:04:07,246 Everyone else from your home region. 104 00:04:07,289 --> 00:04:09,456 - All right, let's do it. - Yes, dude. 105 00:04:09,500 --> 00:04:11,458 This is the team right here, okay? 106 00:04:11,502 --> 00:04:14,753 - We have the northeast. - All right, all right. 107 00:04:14,797 --> 00:04:16,213 - Here we go. - Yeah, man. 108 00:04:16,215 --> 00:04:19,007 - The south. - Let's go! 109 00:04:19,051 --> 00:04:21,677 - ( cheering ) - the midwest. 110 00:04:21,762 --> 00:04:23,512 - Yeah! - Let's go, baby! 111 00:04:23,555 --> 00:04:25,347 - And the west. - Whoo! 112 00:04:25,391 --> 00:04:27,641 - ( cheering ) - west side's the best side! 113 00:04:27,685 --> 00:04:29,268 The competition is on. 114 00:04:29,311 --> 00:04:31,228 - Let's go. - Let's go. 115 00:04:31,272 --> 00:04:33,605 - Come on, baby. - Now, each night, 116 00:04:33,649 --> 00:04:35,399 Whoever cooks the best dish 117 00:04:35,442 --> 00:04:39,778 Will earn the masterchef immunity pin. 118 00:04:39,780 --> 00:04:42,364 ( cheering ) 119 00:04:45,327 --> 00:04:49,079 This means you'll be safe from elimination 120 00:04:49,123 --> 00:04:50,497 In the next challenge. 121 00:04:50,541 --> 00:04:52,749 - Wow. - Yes. 122 00:04:52,793 --> 00:04:55,294 But here's the kicker. 123 00:04:55,296 --> 00:04:59,464 The winner of this pin will also save 124 00:04:59,508 --> 00:05:03,593 Their entire region from elimination that night. 125 00:05:03,595 --> 00:05:05,220 Whoo! Let's go, guys. 126 00:05:05,264 --> 00:05:07,597 - We're taking it. We're taking it. - Come on, baby. 127 00:05:07,599 --> 00:05:09,308 Joe: Mark my words. 128 00:05:09,351 --> 00:05:13,186 This will be the most strategic season of "masterchef" ever. 129 00:05:13,230 --> 00:05:16,356 Oh, we got this, baby! We got this! 130 00:05:16,400 --> 00:05:19,192 Even if I'm not the one getting the immunity pin, 131 00:05:19,236 --> 00:05:21,570 That's okay because I can still benefit from it. 132 00:05:21,572 --> 00:05:25,449 We just have to have one cook from the south win the challenge 133 00:05:25,492 --> 00:05:27,534 And save the whole region from elimination. 134 00:05:27,578 --> 00:05:30,287 - That's a big deal. - Here's the good news. 135 00:05:30,331 --> 00:05:34,583 Tonight you'll have 60 minutes to cook an elevated dish 136 00:05:34,585 --> 00:05:38,170 Inspired by state fair food. Understood? 137 00:05:38,172 --> 00:05:39,755 - All: Yes, chef. - Good. 138 00:05:39,798 --> 00:05:41,423 Now it's time find out which region's 139 00:05:41,467 --> 00:05:44,551 Gonna start out strong and which region 140 00:05:44,553 --> 00:05:47,346 Will say good-bye to their first home cook tonight. 141 00:05:47,389 --> 00:05:50,599 - No, no. No, no. - Right. Everybody ready? 142 00:05:50,642 --> 00:05:52,642 - All: Yes, chef. - Good. 143 00:05:52,686 --> 00:05:56,396 ( cheering ) 144 00:05:56,440 --> 00:05:59,691 - Your time starts now! - ( bell rings ) 145 00:05:59,693 --> 00:06:02,361 - Let's go, guys. - Yeah! 146 00:06:02,363 --> 00:06:05,530 - Whoo! - Oh, I see how it's gonna be. Oh, look at this. 147 00:06:05,574 --> 00:06:08,075 - All right, all right. - Let's go. Let's get it. Let's get it. 148 00:06:08,077 --> 00:06:10,118 - Okay, I got a corn. - Parmesan, parmesan. 149 00:06:10,162 --> 00:06:12,454 - Ooh, okay. - A tomato. 150 00:06:12,498 --> 00:06:15,123 I don't really do carnival stuff. 151 00:06:15,167 --> 00:06:19,252 I mean, I love a hotdog, but I'm not trying to serve gordon ramsay a hotdog. 152 00:06:19,296 --> 00:06:21,421 Cayenne, cayenne, cayenne. 153 00:06:21,423 --> 00:06:24,466 But I believe that the south will succeed in this challenge 154 00:06:24,468 --> 00:06:28,053 - Because we know how to bring out flavors... - I'm good to go. 155 00:06:28,055 --> 00:06:30,680 ...And put things together in a very elevated way. 156 00:06:30,724 --> 00:06:32,391 Sugar. I have my vinegar. 157 00:06:32,434 --> 00:06:34,351 Heck, I just don't wanna be in the bottom. 158 00:06:34,395 --> 00:06:38,605 So I gotta myself and my region on a plate. 159 00:06:40,359 --> 00:06:42,526 - Okay. - Let's go. Come on. 160 00:06:42,569 --> 00:06:45,570 - Damn, time is flying. - Let's go, northeast. 161 00:06:45,572 --> 00:06:48,490 - You already know. - Rich, what do you say? What do you say, rich? 162 00:06:48,534 --> 00:06:51,284 I say northeast is the best, my guy. 163 00:06:51,328 --> 00:06:52,494 - You already know. - Ooh, baby. 164 00:06:52,538 --> 00:06:54,746 - Let's go, midwest. - Go, midwest. 165 00:06:54,790 --> 00:06:57,290 - Let's go, guys! - Breathe. 166 00:06:57,334 --> 00:07:00,168 Wayne: I am making an incredible pumpkin risotto. 167 00:07:00,212 --> 00:07:02,921 Where I'm from in ohio, we have this fair 168 00:07:02,923 --> 00:07:04,172 Called the circleville pumpkin festival. 169 00:07:04,216 --> 00:07:06,425 It's been going on since 1903. 170 00:07:06,468 --> 00:07:09,177 And I'm gonna top it with a butter poached lobster to elevate it. 171 00:07:09,179 --> 00:07:12,055 I love this plot twist this year with the immunity pin 172 00:07:12,099 --> 00:07:14,391 Because I plan to win it for my team today. 173 00:07:14,435 --> 00:07:16,059 - Whoo! Hell yeah, wayne! - Yeah, buddy. 174 00:07:16,061 --> 00:07:17,477 I don't know about that, wayne. 175 00:07:17,479 --> 00:07:20,689 Wayne: South is talking trash already. All right. 176 00:07:20,691 --> 00:07:22,858 Come on, west! 177 00:07:22,901 --> 00:07:25,068 All right, let's make the marinade. 178 00:07:25,070 --> 00:07:27,863 Today I'm making my rendition of the slopper. 179 00:07:27,906 --> 00:07:30,449 Basically just a cheeseburger that's covered in green chili, 180 00:07:30,492 --> 00:07:32,242 And this is from pueblo state fair. 181 00:07:32,286 --> 00:07:35,328 In colorado, we love green chili in everything, 182 00:07:35,372 --> 00:07:36,746 So hopefully it turns out as great as I think. 183 00:07:38,167 --> 00:07:39,541 A regional rumble. How exciting is this? 184 00:07:39,585 --> 00:07:41,293 What a way to kick off season 13. 185 00:07:41,336 --> 00:07:44,421 State fair food can be interpreted in so many different ways, 186 00:07:44,465 --> 00:07:46,339 So we're gonna really see who they are as cooks 187 00:07:46,383 --> 00:07:48,049 - In the first challenge. - Come on, man. 188 00:07:48,093 --> 00:07:49,301 This is gotta be the toughest challenge 189 00:07:49,344 --> 00:07:50,802 We've ever kicked a season off with. 190 00:07:50,846 --> 00:07:52,345 - Yeah. - You gotta take that food 191 00:07:52,389 --> 00:07:55,056 And kind of use your chef mind to reinterpret it. 192 00:07:55,142 --> 00:07:56,808 Sure. This is gonna be exciting. Shall we, guys? 193 00:07:56,810 --> 00:07:59,561 - Yeah. Let's do it. - Let's go. 194 00:07:59,605 --> 00:08:01,229 Let's go, west! 195 00:08:01,273 --> 00:08:02,981 Amanda: When I think of county fairs, 196 00:08:03,025 --> 00:08:06,651 I think of food that I typically would not eat. 197 00:08:06,695 --> 00:08:08,403 It's not really my thing. 198 00:08:08,405 --> 00:08:11,448 So today I'm gonna go a different way 199 00:08:11,533 --> 00:08:15,243 Because I'm very into eating healthy and a healthy lifestyle. 200 00:08:15,287 --> 00:08:17,037 - Hi, amanda. - Hello, miss amanda. 201 00:08:17,080 --> 00:08:18,455 - Hi. How are you? - Joe: What are you making? 202 00:08:18,499 --> 00:08:21,166 Southern californians love mexican food. 203 00:08:21,168 --> 00:08:23,293 So I am making fish tacos. 204 00:08:23,337 --> 00:08:25,170 Aarón: You know, the idea of a taco could be something 205 00:08:25,214 --> 00:08:27,631 Very simple, very straightforward. 206 00:08:27,633 --> 00:08:29,966 - That's true. - What is your approach to the elevation factor? 207 00:08:30,010 --> 00:08:33,011 - Joe: Yeah, good question. - My approach is I'm gonna do it two ways. 208 00:08:33,055 --> 00:08:35,347 Kind of my interpretation of that red and green sauce, 209 00:08:35,390 --> 00:08:38,600 I'm going to roast the fish and keep it nice and moist. 210 00:08:38,602 --> 00:08:41,144 And I'm going to make my own tortillas. 211 00:08:41,188 --> 00:08:42,729 - Okay. - Joe: That's impressive. 212 00:08:42,731 --> 00:08:44,898 Aarón: That's very ambitious, and I like the way that sounds. 213 00:08:44,900 --> 00:08:46,775 It makes me a little nervous. 214 00:08:46,860 --> 00:08:48,193 Are you out of your wheelhouse a little bit, amanda, with this? 215 00:08:48,237 --> 00:08:50,570 Way out of my wheelhouse. Way out. 216 00:08:50,572 --> 00:08:53,406 So you're going the route of big risk, big reward. 217 00:08:53,408 --> 00:08:56,409 Exactly. Hopefully the risk pays off. 218 00:08:56,453 --> 00:08:58,119 - Joe: Good luck. - Aarón: Exactly. 219 00:08:58,163 --> 00:09:00,080 Don't make them too thick, please, amanda. 220 00:09:00,123 --> 00:09:02,457 I'm going to try this mexican dish because... 221 00:09:02,543 --> 00:09:06,628 - Ah, shoot. - ...I'm not ready to go back and be a stay-at-home mom. 222 00:09:06,630 --> 00:09:10,465 I love my kids so much, but this is everything I've ever wanted, 223 00:09:10,509 --> 00:09:12,008 And I just got my apron. 224 00:09:12,052 --> 00:09:14,511 I don't wanna give it back. 225 00:09:14,555 --> 00:09:16,388 Come on. Come on. 226 00:09:20,185 --> 00:09:21,685 Richie, right, tell me about the dish. 227 00:09:21,687 --> 00:09:24,020 How does it relate to that state fair? 228 00:09:24,064 --> 00:09:26,565 I live in the area right outside of dc. 229 00:09:26,608 --> 00:09:28,900 - There's a lot of different foods from a lot of places. - Sure. 230 00:09:28,944 --> 00:09:30,986 But what always stuck out to me are the fried cheesecake bites. 231 00:09:31,029 --> 00:09:33,071 So I'm gonna be doing a deconstructed cheesecake 232 00:09:33,115 --> 00:09:34,656 With a candied bacon tuile. 233 00:09:34,700 --> 00:09:37,158 - So definitely elevated, right? - Oh, yeah. For sure. 234 00:09:37,202 --> 00:09:39,286 What would it mean tonight getting out the gate strong 235 00:09:39,329 --> 00:09:41,079 And landing that immunity pin 236 00:09:41,123 --> 00:09:42,664 And taking the whole northeast up to the balcony? 237 00:09:42,708 --> 00:09:44,916 It would show that the northeast is here to win, 238 00:09:44,960 --> 00:09:47,335 The northeast is strong, and we have a lot more flavor than people give us credit for. 239 00:09:47,379 --> 00:09:49,254 I think sometimes the northeast can get overlooked as a region. 240 00:09:49,298 --> 00:09:51,840 - Sure. - But we're gonna rock it today. 241 00:09:51,842 --> 00:09:54,801 - Good luck. - So the challenge today is to make something as simple 242 00:09:54,803 --> 00:09:56,469 As an elevated state fair dish. 243 00:09:56,513 --> 00:09:58,138 In the beginning, you get an idea, 244 00:09:58,181 --> 00:09:59,598 And you think you know where you're going. 245 00:09:59,600 --> 00:10:01,391 But you're taking fair foods and you're trying 246 00:10:01,435 --> 00:10:03,560 To elevate them to a level that they've never been before. 247 00:10:03,562 --> 00:10:05,562 Once you're in that kitchen and the clock is running, 248 00:10:05,564 --> 00:10:08,523 Then you realize it is not as easy as you think it's gonna be. 249 00:10:08,567 --> 00:10:09,774 Aww, son of a ( bleep ). 250 00:10:09,818 --> 00:10:11,443 Being a music producer, 251 00:10:11,486 --> 00:10:13,069 I have so much to prove as a home cook. 252 00:10:13,071 --> 00:10:15,530 This food dream can't happen without "masterchef," 253 00:10:15,532 --> 00:10:17,198 So I gotta make sure I get everything right. 254 00:10:17,242 --> 00:10:20,327 Because if anything goes wrong, that could be your apron. 255 00:10:32,633 --> 00:10:35,342 Gordon: Guys, 20 minutes gone. 40 minutes remaining. 256 00:10:35,385 --> 00:10:37,469 Aah! How's my team doing? You guys good? 257 00:10:37,471 --> 00:10:39,137 - Yeah, we doing good. - I'm great. 258 00:10:39,222 --> 00:10:41,181 - All right, let me know. - Gordon: The west, 259 00:10:41,183 --> 00:10:42,390 The midwest, the south, and the northeast, 260 00:10:42,434 --> 00:10:45,018 How do you think they'll manage region by region? 261 00:10:45,062 --> 00:10:47,771 You have other four people that are counting on everything that you're doing. 262 00:10:47,856 --> 00:10:50,065 - That's a lot of pressure. - Let's do this, northeast. 263 00:10:50,108 --> 00:10:52,192 - That's what I like to hear. - Let's go! 264 00:10:52,235 --> 00:10:53,610 Gordon: Behind every dish you've got that chance 265 00:10:53,654 --> 00:10:55,320 Of actually taking you and your region 266 00:10:55,364 --> 00:10:57,030 Up to safety of the balcony. 267 00:10:57,074 --> 00:10:59,199 But it's still an individual competition. 268 00:10:59,201 --> 00:11:00,450 You gotta save yourself first. 269 00:11:00,494 --> 00:11:02,118 Whoo! Let's go, west! 270 00:11:02,120 --> 00:11:04,329 Hey, that looking like butter. 271 00:11:04,331 --> 00:11:06,247 I want this aioli to be the bomb. 272 00:11:06,291 --> 00:11:08,458 James: This cook is gonna show the other regions 273 00:11:08,502 --> 00:11:11,169 Why we the westside and why we the best side. 274 00:11:11,213 --> 00:11:13,171 Whoo! Oh, kennedy, that looks so good. 275 00:11:13,206 --> 00:11:15,173 Kennedy: Thank you. We barbecuing today. 276 00:11:15,217 --> 00:11:18,218 Kennedy is a very heavy hitter on game meat. 277 00:11:18,261 --> 00:11:20,220 - Yes. - Lizzie is good with seafood. 278 00:11:20,263 --> 00:11:22,931 - Ha! - M.D. Is bringing them hawaiian flavors. 279 00:11:22,933 --> 00:11:27,060 - Let's get it, west. - Amanda is bringing a lot of healthy, 280 00:11:27,104 --> 00:11:29,062 Fresh california ingredients. 281 00:11:29,106 --> 00:11:31,106 And me? You know what I'm bringing for you? 282 00:11:31,149 --> 00:11:34,359 Whoo! Fresh mushrooms in here. 283 00:11:34,403 --> 00:11:36,319 I've been to the mushroom festival in portland, 284 00:11:36,321 --> 00:11:38,238 And I'm a mushroom jerky manufacturer, 285 00:11:38,281 --> 00:11:40,573 So I gotta show the judges what I can do. 286 00:11:40,617 --> 00:11:43,201 - James, how are you, my friend? - I'm doing good. How you doing? 287 00:11:43,245 --> 00:11:46,705 - What are you making? - I'm making a mushroom festival burger. 288 00:11:46,748 --> 00:11:48,498 You gonna mix mushrooms into the ground beef? 289 00:11:48,542 --> 00:11:50,583 I got a little bit of this mushroom powder. I just grind it up. 290 00:11:50,627 --> 00:11:53,211 - I'm gonna add that to the beef. - Dried like this, 291 00:11:53,255 --> 00:11:55,213 That's very, very strong umami. 292 00:11:55,257 --> 00:11:56,923 You might wanna just put this in some water, 293 00:11:56,967 --> 00:11:59,509 Let it soak, and then it's gonna take a lot of the edge off. 294 00:11:59,553 --> 00:12:01,511 It's a great strategy, it'll elevate, but be careful. 295 00:12:01,555 --> 00:12:04,305 - Got you. Thank you. - Good luck. 296 00:12:05,767 --> 00:12:07,142 How y'all feeling, northeast? 297 00:12:07,227 --> 00:12:08,518 - Good, good. - Pretty good. 298 00:12:08,562 --> 00:12:10,228 Rhode island fair food 299 00:12:10,272 --> 00:12:12,355 Is all of the clam chowder at every festival. 300 00:12:12,399 --> 00:12:15,275 So today I'm making a new England style clam chowder. 301 00:12:15,318 --> 00:12:16,651 I'm so excited about the twist this season. 302 00:12:16,695 --> 00:12:18,153 Just looking at my group, 303 00:12:18,196 --> 00:12:20,321 There's so many different styles of cooking, 304 00:12:20,365 --> 00:12:22,365 Which is a great microcosm of what the northeast is. 305 00:12:22,409 --> 00:12:24,117 - Nina. How are you feeling? - Hi. 306 00:12:24,161 --> 00:12:25,452 Oh, I'm a little nervous. 307 00:12:25,495 --> 00:12:27,662 I think it'll shake off, and I'll be all right. 308 00:12:27,706 --> 00:12:29,164 Give me an insight into that state fair experience. 309 00:12:29,207 --> 00:12:30,832 - What was it like? - Anywhere you go 310 00:12:30,834 --> 00:12:32,542 To a state fair in the state of maine, 311 00:12:32,586 --> 00:12:34,586 A fried fish sandwich is gonna be ubiquitous. 312 00:12:34,629 --> 00:12:36,588 We're right on the ocean. We get all the good seafood. 313 00:12:36,631 --> 00:12:39,382 - Gordon: Sure. - So I'm doing a fried cod sandwich. 314 00:12:39,426 --> 00:12:42,218 I'm gonna do a salt and vinegar potato chip. 315 00:12:42,220 --> 00:12:44,429 Good. How are you gonna cook the cod? 316 00:12:44,473 --> 00:12:45,346 I'm gonna deep fry it, and with some club soda mixture, 317 00:12:45,348 --> 00:12:47,307 It's gets all fluffy and puffy. 318 00:12:47,392 --> 00:12:49,100 What would it mean, immunity tonight? 319 00:12:49,144 --> 00:12:50,351 What would that say about the northeast? 320 00:12:50,353 --> 00:12:52,312 I think that would set us on the path 321 00:12:52,355 --> 00:12:53,772 Of being people to be feared. 322 00:12:53,774 --> 00:12:55,598 ( laughs ) 323 00:12:55,600 --> 00:12:57,275 I like people to be a little bit afraid of me. 324 00:12:57,319 --> 00:12:59,068 - Not a lot, but a little bit. - Good luck. 325 00:12:59,112 --> 00:13:01,237 - Elevate that plating, yes? - Thank you. Yes. 326 00:13:01,239 --> 00:13:05,283 - How you doing, hon? - Reagan: We're fine. We're doing just fine. 327 00:13:05,327 --> 00:13:07,160 ( laughing ) 328 00:13:07,162 --> 00:13:08,995 - Okay, it's perfect. - How we doing? How we doing? 329 00:13:09,039 --> 00:13:10,789 - It's perfect. - You got it, kolby. 330 00:13:10,832 --> 00:13:13,541 I am making a savory tomato pie. 331 00:13:13,585 --> 00:13:16,795 We have this amazing pink tomato festival in arkansas. 332 00:13:16,797 --> 00:13:18,546 I'm a mom of six kids, 333 00:13:18,590 --> 00:13:21,299 And so my kids have grown up going to our county fair. 334 00:13:21,343 --> 00:13:24,385 So I'm so excited to see what our southern region today 335 00:13:24,387 --> 00:13:27,138 Is going to pull together for you all. 336 00:13:27,182 --> 00:13:28,640 Reagan: I gotta start my chicken. 337 00:13:28,642 --> 00:13:30,350 - Reagan. - Hi. 338 00:13:30,352 --> 00:13:32,060 - How are you? - Oh, wonderful. How are you today? 339 00:13:32,103 --> 00:13:34,187 Good indeed, thank you. Right, um, take me back 340 00:13:34,231 --> 00:13:36,105 To the first memory of that state fair. 341 00:13:36,149 --> 00:13:38,191 So, you know, we live in louisiana. 342 00:13:38,235 --> 00:13:41,236 - So I'm actually doing a take on the fried chicken festival. - Right. 343 00:13:41,238 --> 00:13:43,154 And so I'm doing a panéed chicken 344 00:13:43,198 --> 00:13:47,116 With a crab lemon butter sauce over some mashed potatoes. 345 00:13:47,160 --> 00:13:49,327 You can see the competition is gone up a notch already. 346 00:13:49,371 --> 00:13:51,329 Where do you think the south sit currently? 347 00:13:51,331 --> 00:13:55,083 What we have here is a great group of people that know flavor. 348 00:13:55,126 --> 00:13:56,626 They also know plating. And I'ma bring it all together. 349 00:13:56,670 --> 00:13:58,127 I'm gonna make sure they right. 350 00:13:58,129 --> 00:14:00,046 Watch the cook on that chicken. Good luck, yes? 351 00:14:00,048 --> 00:14:01,339 Thank you so much, chef. 352 00:14:01,383 --> 00:14:02,966 James: We still got 33 minutes, south. 353 00:14:03,009 --> 00:14:04,384 - We good. We good. - We're good, we're good. 354 00:14:04,427 --> 00:14:06,469 Come on, let me hear you louder than that. 355 00:14:06,513 --> 00:14:07,762 - How y'all doing, northeast? - All right, all right! 356 00:14:07,764 --> 00:14:10,348 Let's get it! Yeah! 357 00:14:10,350 --> 00:14:13,268 A lot of the other regions are noisy. 358 00:14:13,311 --> 00:14:16,229 They are showing off, and they're talking a lot. 359 00:14:16,231 --> 00:14:18,314 Let's go, west! Wild, wild west. 360 00:14:18,358 --> 00:14:20,984 But I think the midwest has an advantage in this challenge. 361 00:14:21,027 --> 00:14:22,986 Hey, midwest, take a deep breath. We got this. 362 00:14:23,029 --> 00:14:24,195 We know how to cook fair food. 363 00:14:24,197 --> 00:14:26,322 - Hey, man. - We were born for this. 364 00:14:26,324 --> 00:14:27,615 We are the king of state fairs. 365 00:14:27,617 --> 00:14:29,075 We have the pigs and the cows and the milk. 366 00:14:29,119 --> 00:14:30,827 We know how to eat. 367 00:14:30,829 --> 00:14:33,162 I'm so proud to be here representing the midwest, 368 00:14:33,206 --> 00:14:36,332 And we have a super solid team of chefs 369 00:14:36,376 --> 00:14:39,377 That I think are gonna go really far in this competition. 370 00:14:39,421 --> 00:14:41,087 - Hello, señor kyle. - Hey, gentlemen. How are you? 371 00:14:41,131 --> 00:14:42,338 What do we got going on here, buddy? 372 00:14:42,382 --> 00:14:44,299 I am taking you guys to minnesota. 373 00:14:44,342 --> 00:14:46,092 I am representing kansas city, 374 00:14:46,177 --> 00:14:47,969 But I work for brewery based in minneapolis. 375 00:14:48,013 --> 00:14:49,429 I've been to the state fair a bunch. 376 00:14:49,472 --> 00:14:51,556 I think it's really cute that a lot of the competitors 377 00:14:51,558 --> 00:14:53,850 Think that their hometowns have the best state fairs. 378 00:14:53,894 --> 00:14:58,146 The state fair in minnesota is actually the premiere culinary event in the country. 379 00:14:58,189 --> 00:14:59,480 - Said by who? Says who? - Says who? Yeah. 380 00:14:59,524 --> 00:15:01,858 - Says me! I'm gonna prove it. - Okay. 381 00:15:01,902 --> 00:15:04,569 - Joe: What's the dish? - My favorite dish up north is walleye fries, 382 00:15:04,613 --> 00:15:05,820 So I'm trying to elevate it. 383 00:15:05,822 --> 00:15:07,530 I'm gonna deep fry some lobster, 384 00:15:07,574 --> 00:15:10,033 And you're gonna get fennel apple celery salad. 385 00:15:10,076 --> 00:15:11,492 - Lobster fries basically? - Yeah. 386 00:15:11,536 --> 00:15:13,161 - In a batter? - We call 'em fries. 387 00:15:13,204 --> 00:15:15,079 It's just strips of stuff that have been deep fried. 388 00:15:15,081 --> 00:15:16,456 Have you ever fried lobster before? 389 00:15:16,499 --> 00:15:18,583 I haven't. We're about to find out, huh? 390 00:15:18,585 --> 00:15:20,585 A lot could go wrong because this lobster can dry out quickly. 391 00:15:20,587 --> 00:15:23,588 - It could get stringy. It could be raw. - Aarón: Yeah. 392 00:15:23,632 --> 00:15:25,548 And if you've never done it before, do you think it's a good idea? 393 00:15:25,592 --> 00:15:28,176 I haven't ever beer battered lobster, 394 00:15:28,178 --> 00:15:29,552 But I've beer battered a lot of fish. 395 00:15:29,596 --> 00:15:31,346 I have some confidence that you're gonna be impressed 396 00:15:31,389 --> 00:15:33,056 With what happens at the end of this cook. 397 00:15:33,099 --> 00:15:35,016 - Aarón: Yeah. - Joe: Okay, I hope so. 398 00:15:35,060 --> 00:15:36,225 - Me, too, man. Me, too. - Good luck. 399 00:15:36,269 --> 00:15:38,019 Gordon: Guys, coming up to halfway! 400 00:15:38,063 --> 00:15:41,064 30 minutes remaining. Let's go! 401 00:15:41,107 --> 00:15:42,649 Wow, this is exciting. 402 00:15:42,734 --> 00:15:44,359 Make mama proud, okay? 403 00:15:44,402 --> 00:15:46,235 I love you very much. Good job. 404 00:15:46,279 --> 00:15:47,820 Ooh, a nice little acidity. 405 00:15:47,864 --> 00:15:49,322 Richie representing the northeast, 406 00:15:49,407 --> 00:15:51,074 He's done almost like a sort of sweet and savory. 407 00:15:51,117 --> 00:15:54,327 So it's a cheesecake filling with caramelized bacon. 408 00:15:54,371 --> 00:15:57,205 - Richie: Ooh, sticky. - There's some great flavor there, 409 00:15:57,248 --> 00:15:59,749 But I'm not too sure at this stage how it's gonna be elevated. 410 00:15:59,793 --> 00:16:02,585 - It sounds a little pedestrian. - It needs to be flushed out with a base. 411 00:16:02,587 --> 00:16:04,629 - Gordon: Yeah. - Yep. I don't think he has a clear idea. 412 00:16:04,673 --> 00:16:06,130 - Gordon: No. - It's a little bit mixed-up. 413 00:16:06,174 --> 00:16:08,132 Okay, I'm trying to get this one to puff up. 414 00:16:08,176 --> 00:16:11,427 - Come on. You're doing it. - Amanda being from los angeles, 415 00:16:11,429 --> 00:16:16,140 - She's doing a baked fish taco. - Wow. 416 00:16:16,184 --> 00:16:18,601 - And she's making her own tortillas. - And I'm concerned. 417 00:16:18,645 --> 00:16:22,188 It takes years to perfect the art of making tortillas. 418 00:16:22,232 --> 00:16:24,524 - And you're just gonna jump in there? - Amanda: Come on. 419 00:16:24,567 --> 00:16:26,317 Gordon: My biggest question is how are you gonna elevate that? 420 00:16:26,361 --> 00:16:29,153 Because it sounds like a sort of taco you can get anywhere. 421 00:16:29,197 --> 00:16:31,489 - It has to be perfect at that point. - Yep. 422 00:16:31,491 --> 00:16:35,785 It is very strong, so I made it almost like a paste. Nice. 423 00:16:35,829 --> 00:16:38,454 With the west, we have james, who's doing a mushroom burger, 424 00:16:38,498 --> 00:16:41,332 So he's get porcini powder in the meat. 425 00:16:41,376 --> 00:16:43,334 - He's the mushroom man. - Perfect. 426 00:16:43,378 --> 00:16:46,004 But porcini powder is very, very strong. 427 00:16:46,047 --> 00:16:48,548 I recommended he dilute it a little bit to take that edge off, 428 00:16:48,591 --> 00:16:51,426 So you can get that umami from the porcini 429 00:16:51,428 --> 00:16:53,678 - Without all that funk. - We'll see what happens there. 430 00:16:53,722 --> 00:16:56,264 - Oh, this beer batter's gonna be good. - Oh, yeah. 431 00:16:56,307 --> 00:16:58,057 Hey, they were questioning me. Did you hear that? 432 00:16:58,101 --> 00:17:00,435 - Have they been to missouri? - "have they been to missouri?" 433 00:17:00,478 --> 00:17:03,229 So kyle from the midwest, he's gonna make lobster fries. 434 00:17:03,273 --> 00:17:06,315 - Wow. - He's gonna do a beer batter and lobster. 435 00:17:06,359 --> 00:17:07,608 I told him lobster's a big risk. 436 00:17:07,652 --> 00:17:10,319 Comes out raw, stringy, undercooked, overcooked, 437 00:17:10,363 --> 00:17:12,196 I see a lot of risk in that dish. 438 00:17:12,240 --> 00:17:13,489 - Aarón: Yep. - Okay. 439 00:17:13,533 --> 00:17:15,491 Joe's concerned about the texture. 440 00:17:15,535 --> 00:17:17,160 3 1/2 minutes? 441 00:17:17,245 --> 00:17:20,246 I know that there's going to be a very small window 442 00:17:20,290 --> 00:17:21,456 Where the beer batter's crispy enough 443 00:17:21,499 --> 00:17:24,208 And the lobster isn't overcooked. 444 00:17:24,252 --> 00:17:27,128 I'm taking a lot of risks here, 445 00:17:27,213 --> 00:17:30,089 But I think you have to in the masterchef kitchen. 446 00:17:30,133 --> 00:17:32,050 I know I've got the midwest region relying on me, 447 00:17:32,093 --> 00:17:34,343 And I'm relying on them. 448 00:17:34,387 --> 00:17:36,054 Calm down. Take a deep breath. 449 00:17:36,097 --> 00:17:38,056 All I can do is use my instincts 450 00:17:38,099 --> 00:17:39,682 And cook it the best way I know how. 451 00:17:39,768 --> 00:17:40,975 Um... 452 00:17:53,406 --> 00:17:57,325 45 minutes gone! 15 minutes remaining. Let's go! 453 00:17:57,368 --> 00:17:58,743 - Let's go, baby! - Let's go, midwest! 454 00:17:58,787 --> 00:18:01,162 - Good? We're good? - Yes. 455 00:18:01,206 --> 00:18:04,332 - All right, you guys! - Come on, south, we got it! 456 00:18:04,334 --> 00:18:07,168 At any state fair in alabama, you're gonna have barbeque. 457 00:18:07,212 --> 00:18:08,377 So I'm doing a barbeque sandwich 458 00:18:08,379 --> 00:18:11,339 With pork tenderloin over a johnnycake 459 00:18:11,382 --> 00:18:14,050 With a blackberry barbeque sauce. 460 00:18:14,094 --> 00:18:16,302 So I'm really taking the simple version 461 00:18:16,346 --> 00:18:19,555 Of a barbeque sandwich up to another level. 462 00:18:19,599 --> 00:18:21,599 Rocking and a-rolling. 463 00:18:21,643 --> 00:18:26,062 When I go to a state fair, I'm not normally eating. I am competing. 464 00:18:26,064 --> 00:18:28,231 I've done a lot of competition cooking and barbeques. 465 00:18:28,274 --> 00:18:31,225 But I'm used to 24 hours of cooking, 466 00:18:31,236 --> 00:18:33,486 And I gotta condense it down to 60 minutes? 467 00:18:33,530 --> 00:18:35,029 It's a challenge, that's for sure. 468 00:18:35,031 --> 00:18:36,489 I really just wanna make sure 469 00:18:36,491 --> 00:18:38,366 That I have enough elements on this dish 470 00:18:38,368 --> 00:18:41,160 To separate myself from the rest of this competition. 471 00:18:41,204 --> 00:18:42,995 - Right, kendal, how we doing? - Hello, sir. 472 00:18:43,039 --> 00:18:44,455 - How are you doing? - All good indeed. 473 00:18:44,499 --> 00:18:46,165 - How are you feeling? - I'm pretty confident. 474 00:18:46,209 --> 00:18:48,626 - So back home, we eat chicken on a stick. - Right. 475 00:18:48,670 --> 00:18:51,087 The first barbeque festival I ever went to 476 00:18:51,131 --> 00:18:53,089 That's one of the things that we'd eat. 477 00:18:53,133 --> 00:18:54,423 Gordon: So how are you gonna elevate that chicken on a stick? 478 00:18:54,467 --> 00:18:57,135 We're gonna do an herby butter chicken on a stick 479 00:18:57,137 --> 00:19:01,305 With a fried potato ball with some bacon wrapped asparagus, 480 00:19:01,307 --> 00:19:02,765 And I think we're gonna take it to the next level. 481 00:19:02,809 --> 00:19:04,350 Gordon: There's a lot going on there. 482 00:19:04,394 --> 00:19:05,351 The elevation, how are we gonna plate this thing 483 00:19:05,395 --> 00:19:07,019 To sort of restaurant quality? 484 00:19:07,063 --> 00:19:09,313 I've got all different textures, I've got colors, 485 00:19:09,357 --> 00:19:10,982 And I feel like I've got a balanced dish up and down. 486 00:19:11,025 --> 00:19:12,400 - Good luck, yes? - Thank you, sir. 487 00:19:12,443 --> 00:19:15,111 Kyle: Hey, does anybody in the midwest have sugar? 488 00:19:15,155 --> 00:19:17,613 - I got you. - Literally just a pinch. Thank you. 489 00:19:17,657 --> 00:19:18,781 Look at that midwest love. 490 00:19:18,783 --> 00:19:21,159 - Midwest love. - Right. 491 00:19:21,202 --> 00:19:22,243 - You good, wayne? - I'm good, man. 492 00:19:22,287 --> 00:19:24,162 - Good. - Joe: Hey, wayne. 493 00:19:24,205 --> 00:19:25,454 - Hey, how's it going? - What are you making? 494 00:19:25,498 --> 00:19:28,291 I am making a beautiful roasted pumpkin risotto. 495 00:19:28,334 --> 00:19:30,751 Risotto. Have you ever watched "masterchef" before? 496 00:19:30,795 --> 00:19:32,378 Maybe once or twice. 497 00:19:32,422 --> 00:19:34,422 Joe: It's one of the most difficult dishes 498 00:19:34,465 --> 00:19:37,717 Because it's so hard to make and we've very critical. 499 00:19:37,719 --> 00:19:39,594 - Yeah, well, look-- - so why risotto? 500 00:19:39,637 --> 00:19:42,096 - I'm a competitive baseball player. - Mm-hmm. 501 00:19:42,140 --> 00:19:43,890 And I believe if you're gonna step into the box, 502 00:19:43,892 --> 00:19:46,184 - You try to make hard contact. - You're swinging for the fences. 503 00:19:46,227 --> 00:19:47,894 - I'm gonna win this challenge. - Where are you from? 504 00:19:47,937 --> 00:19:50,271 Columbus, ohio. One the biggest fairs we have is actually 505 00:19:50,315 --> 00:19:52,106 The circleville pumpkin festival. 506 00:19:52,150 --> 00:19:53,649 It's pumpkin everything. 507 00:19:53,693 --> 00:19:55,776 So the risotto is gonna be flavored with pumpkin? 508 00:19:55,820 --> 00:19:57,528 - Pumpkin, yeah. I'm gonna bring it today. - All right. 509 00:19:57,572 --> 00:19:59,488 - I look forward to it, guys. - Good luck, wayne. 510 00:19:59,532 --> 00:20:00,615 Thank you. 511 00:20:00,658 --> 00:20:02,074 My strategy in this challenge 512 00:20:02,160 --> 00:20:03,784 Is to win that immunity pin. 513 00:20:03,828 --> 00:20:06,954 Now we just gotta let the risotto make love to the pan. 514 00:20:07,040 --> 00:20:09,123 In business, I've always taken risks, 515 00:20:09,167 --> 00:20:11,292 And I thrive in high pressure situations. 516 00:20:11,294 --> 00:20:14,670 So I don't wanna lose and embarrass myself or my region. 517 00:20:14,714 --> 00:20:16,214 Whoo-hoo. 518 00:20:16,216 --> 00:20:18,382 Gordon: Last five, guys. Five minutes to go. 519 00:20:18,426 --> 00:20:21,219 - Let's get it. - Let's do this, guys! Everybody looking good? 520 00:20:21,262 --> 00:20:23,262 - We ready. - Got it. 521 00:20:23,306 --> 00:20:26,015 - How you looking, rich? - Waiting on this bacon to get crispy, baby. 522 00:20:26,059 --> 00:20:29,310 I'm somewhat concerned about richie because with only five minutes left, 523 00:20:29,354 --> 00:20:31,354 - That's as far as he's got with that dish. - Richie: Come on now. 524 00:20:31,397 --> 00:20:33,105 Time right now is not his friend. 525 00:20:33,149 --> 00:20:34,649 Kyle: Everybody, taste your food. 526 00:20:34,692 --> 00:20:36,192 Make sure everything's seasoned properly. 527 00:20:36,236 --> 00:20:37,777 Gordon: Now let's talk about the south. 528 00:20:37,820 --> 00:20:39,820 So kendal, he's gonna do a herb butter 529 00:20:39,864 --> 00:20:42,114 - Roasted chicken skewers. - Aarón: Like chicken on a stick. 530 00:20:42,158 --> 00:20:44,867 - Basically elevated. - Gordon: Yeah, exactly that. 531 00:20:44,911 --> 00:20:47,954 So it's a smart idea, but there's a lot going on there. 532 00:20:48,039 --> 00:20:50,289 Joe: It's chicken on a stick, potato croquettes, 533 00:20:50,333 --> 00:20:52,291 - And bacon wrapped asparagus. - Aarón: He seems like he has 534 00:20:52,335 --> 00:20:55,169 - A lot of elements on his dish. - What's the hero? 535 00:20:55,213 --> 00:20:56,337 - Yeah. - Come on, man. 536 00:20:56,381 --> 00:20:58,089 ( bleep ) crunch will not come out of this. 537 00:20:58,132 --> 00:21:00,091 Joe: Wayne is from ohio, 538 00:21:00,134 --> 00:21:02,134 And he went to a pumpkin festival, basically. 539 00:21:02,178 --> 00:21:04,178 So he's taken that, and he's gonna make 540 00:21:04,222 --> 00:21:06,055 An italian style risotto with pumpkin. 541 00:21:06,057 --> 00:21:08,391 - Wow. - And he's gonna gild it with lobster. 542 00:21:08,434 --> 00:21:10,059 Joe: Risotto is a high risk dish. 543 00:21:10,103 --> 00:21:12,144 - It has to be perfect. - Yep. 544 00:21:12,188 --> 00:21:15,189 We're down to the last two minutes! 545 00:21:15,233 --> 00:21:17,066 - Start plating! Let's go! - Start plating, everyone. 546 00:21:17,068 --> 00:21:19,527 - Let's go! - Whoo! Let's go, west! 547 00:21:19,529 --> 00:21:21,779 - Let's go. - Lizzie, let me know if you need anything. 548 00:21:21,781 --> 00:21:23,364 I'm just finishing my plate. 549 00:21:23,408 --> 00:21:25,157 Hey, guys, how you feel? Wayne, you got it. 550 00:21:25,201 --> 00:21:28,035 Let's go, let's go, let's go. It's go-time. 551 00:21:28,079 --> 00:21:30,579 - Gordon: 60 seconds. Let's go! - Aarón: It should look phenomenal, everyone. 552 00:21:30,581 --> 00:21:33,291 Come on, south, y'all got it! Rally, rally, rally! 553 00:21:33,334 --> 00:21:35,835 - Gordon: Let's go! - Come on, baby. Come on. 554 00:21:35,837 --> 00:21:38,879 - 30 seconds to go. - 30, you heard? 555 00:21:38,881 --> 00:21:41,549 - Aarón: It has to be on the plate, everyone. - Jeez. 556 00:21:41,592 --> 00:21:44,552 - Kolby, let's go, come on! - Come on, midwest, let's go! 557 00:21:44,595 --> 00:21:45,594 Gordon: Finesse. 558 00:21:45,680 --> 00:21:48,764 Judges: Ten, nine, eight, 559 00:21:48,808 --> 00:21:50,516 - Seven, six, five... - All right. 560 00:21:50,560 --> 00:21:53,185 - Let's go, northeast. - Ay-yi-yi. 561 00:21:53,229 --> 00:21:55,354 - Whew! - ...Three, two, one. 562 00:21:55,356 --> 00:21:56,772 - Aarón: Hands in the air. - Gordon: Well done! 563 00:21:56,816 --> 00:21:58,649 - Hands in the air! - Whoo! 564 00:21:58,693 --> 00:22:00,234 - ( cheering ) - man. 565 00:22:00,278 --> 00:22:03,321 - Let's go, west! - South, south, south! 566 00:22:03,364 --> 00:22:05,990 - Northeast, northeast! - Northeast, baby. 567 00:22:06,075 --> 00:22:07,950 West, west, west, west, west! 568 00:22:08,036 --> 00:22:10,328 - Man, I'm proud of myself. - That was brutal. 569 00:22:10,371 --> 00:22:12,455 James: I wanted to do chips on it, 570 00:22:12,498 --> 00:22:14,457 But now you're making me second-guess. Ugh. 571 00:22:14,459 --> 00:22:16,208 Kendal: Isn't quite what I wanted, but-- 572 00:22:16,210 --> 00:22:19,003 - No, no. I'm so proud of you. - Okay. 573 00:22:19,047 --> 00:22:21,422 Wayne: I am nervous right now. 574 00:22:21,466 --> 00:22:23,090 I'm a little concerned that the risotto 575 00:22:23,092 --> 00:22:25,426 - Is still a little bit crunchy. - Whew. 576 00:22:25,470 --> 00:22:27,011 I've joe standing up there. 577 00:22:27,055 --> 00:22:29,347 The standards are super, super high. 578 00:22:29,390 --> 00:22:32,850 If I were eliminated first, it would be soul-crushing. 579 00:22:32,852 --> 00:22:34,769 I'm mortified by that prospect. 580 00:22:34,812 --> 00:22:38,522 - ( sighs ) - well, let's hope one of us wins that pin, huh? 581 00:22:38,566 --> 00:22:40,358 - I know. - I hope so. 582 00:22:51,245 --> 00:22:53,204 Right, tonight, we asked you 583 00:22:53,247 --> 00:22:56,540 To make an elevated version of a classic fair food. 584 00:22:56,584 --> 00:22:59,210 Now joe, aarón, and myself 585 00:22:59,253 --> 00:23:02,129 Need to take one last close look 586 00:23:02,131 --> 00:23:04,173 At all your dishes. 587 00:23:07,261 --> 00:23:10,054 Richie, plating-wise, 588 00:23:10,098 --> 00:23:12,431 Happy with the sort of minimalistic part on there? 589 00:23:12,475 --> 00:23:14,058 I wanted it to feel like the fair 590 00:23:14,093 --> 00:23:15,726 Where it's shareable foods. 591 00:23:20,191 --> 00:23:23,275 Nina, are you happy with the color on the chips, and they're well-seasoned? 592 00:23:23,319 --> 00:23:25,486 They are well-seasoned. Extra salt for joe. 593 00:23:25,530 --> 00:23:28,280 The right amount is all I require. 594 00:23:28,324 --> 00:23:31,409 Amanda: The judges are very intimidating. 595 00:23:31,452 --> 00:23:34,328 So I'm starting to get a little nervous. 596 00:23:34,330 --> 00:23:35,704 Your heart is pounding. 597 00:23:35,748 --> 00:23:37,373 You're sweating. 598 00:23:37,417 --> 00:23:39,125 It's scary. 599 00:23:39,168 --> 00:23:40,626 - Joe: You tasted that? - Yes. 600 00:23:40,628 --> 00:23:43,629 - Taste right to you? - It could be better. 601 00:23:46,259 --> 00:23:49,051 - Was the lobster poached beforehand? - It was not. 602 00:23:49,095 --> 00:23:50,761 - So you cooked it from raw? - I did, yeah. 603 00:23:50,805 --> 00:23:54,390 The concern is that the judges might think that your dish, 604 00:23:54,434 --> 00:23:57,476 It's not representative of a state fair... 605 00:23:57,520 --> 00:24:01,355 Reagan, do you feel that you've done justice to your region? 606 00:24:01,399 --> 00:24:02,356 I absolutely do. 607 00:24:02,400 --> 00:24:04,400 ...Or it's not elevated enough. 608 00:24:04,444 --> 00:24:05,693 James, are you happy with the way 609 00:24:05,736 --> 00:24:07,111 That the mushroom flavor came out? 610 00:24:07,155 --> 00:24:10,072 Uh, this is good. 611 00:24:10,074 --> 00:24:12,700 You have no idea what they're thinking. 612 00:24:12,743 --> 00:24:16,412 Lizzie, so these shrimps, you cooked them in the pan, right? 613 00:24:16,456 --> 00:24:20,249 - Yes, sir. - You're just hoping that they like it. 614 00:24:20,284 --> 00:24:22,209 Do you feel that you've elevated the taco? 615 00:24:22,253 --> 00:24:25,671 I do, and I'm happy with the tortillas. 616 00:24:25,673 --> 00:24:27,298 Mmm. 617 00:24:31,053 --> 00:24:33,053 Some absolutely brilliant dishes out there. 618 00:24:33,097 --> 00:24:34,054 - Aarón: Yeah, yeah. - Joe: Yeah. 619 00:24:34,098 --> 00:24:35,556 Really inspired cooking. 620 00:24:35,600 --> 00:24:37,641 Some individuals really understood the challenge, 621 00:24:37,685 --> 00:24:39,393 And others missed by a mile. 622 00:24:42,815 --> 00:24:47,193 Right, well done. We're gonna be tasting the best dish from every region. 623 00:24:47,195 --> 00:24:49,612 The winning home cook 624 00:24:49,655 --> 00:24:52,448 Will then win that elusive immunity pin, 625 00:24:52,450 --> 00:24:55,993 Which will keep them safe from elimination next week, 626 00:24:56,037 --> 00:24:57,536 And more importantly, 627 00:24:57,580 --> 00:25:02,625 Keep their entire region safe from elimination tonight. 628 00:25:02,627 --> 00:25:06,337 But if you're from one of those other three regions, 629 00:25:06,380 --> 00:25:10,257 Buckle up, because you may be going home. 630 00:25:10,259 --> 00:25:16,305 Now joe, aarón, and myself are gonna highlight the best dish from each region. 631 00:25:16,349 --> 00:25:20,726 The first dish we're really excited to taste more of 632 00:25:20,728 --> 00:25:23,354 Is from the northeast. 633 00:25:23,397 --> 00:25:27,775 They did an incredible elevation of a classic sandwich. 634 00:25:27,818 --> 00:25:30,277 Please step down... 635 00:25:33,282 --> 00:25:35,074 Nina. 636 00:25:35,117 --> 00:25:36,450 - Good job, nina! - Yeah! 637 00:25:36,494 --> 00:25:38,744 - Good job, girl! - Nina: I feel super pumped. 638 00:25:38,788 --> 00:25:42,081 Of course, I haven't seen the other three amazing dishes yet, 639 00:25:42,083 --> 00:25:45,042 But I think I have a really good chance 640 00:25:45,044 --> 00:25:47,336 To win the immunity pin for the northeast. 641 00:25:47,380 --> 00:25:49,588 Nina, describe the dish, please. 642 00:25:49,632 --> 00:25:52,758 You would be hard-pressed to find a fair anywhere 643 00:25:52,802 --> 00:25:55,761 In the northeast that did not have a fried fish sandwich. 644 00:25:55,805 --> 00:26:00,558 So I made a bourbon and hot sauce fried fish sandwich 645 00:26:00,601 --> 00:26:02,351 With a garlic lemon aioli, 646 00:26:02,395 --> 00:26:04,687 Side of salt and vinegar potato chips, 647 00:26:04,730 --> 00:26:06,605 And a lemon tahini slaw. 648 00:26:06,607 --> 00:26:07,648 Joe: Look, it looks spot on. 649 00:26:07,650 --> 00:26:08,774 The balance of everything, 650 00:26:08,776 --> 00:26:10,359 I mean, it's just top notch. 651 00:26:10,403 --> 00:26:11,986 - Thank you. - Gordon: Shall we, guys? 652 00:26:12,029 --> 00:26:13,988 - Aarón: Yes. - Joe: Yeah. 653 00:26:21,664 --> 00:26:23,289 The fish is cooked beautifully. 654 00:26:23,332 --> 00:26:26,625 And even after sitting in between those slices of bun, 655 00:26:26,669 --> 00:26:28,168 It's incredibly crisp. 656 00:26:28,212 --> 00:26:30,671 It is absolutely up there. Great job. 657 00:26:30,673 --> 00:26:32,047 Thank you. 658 00:26:32,091 --> 00:26:33,757 It has super high marks for me. 659 00:26:33,801 --> 00:26:36,218 The star is actually the dressing of the sandwich. 660 00:26:36,262 --> 00:26:38,137 It really doesn't take away from the crispiness 661 00:26:38,222 --> 00:26:40,806 Of the actual fish, and that's hard to do. 662 00:26:40,808 --> 00:26:43,809 The fish sandwich has its own level of acidity and creaminess. 663 00:26:43,853 --> 00:26:46,312 It's the kind of dish I would happily pay 24 bucks for, 664 00:26:46,355 --> 00:26:48,355 And that's the biggest compliment I can pay you. 665 00:26:48,399 --> 00:26:49,607 - Very good. - Thank you. 666 00:26:49,650 --> 00:26:50,649 Thank you, guys, so much. 667 00:26:50,693 --> 00:26:52,401 - Well done. - Go, nina! 668 00:26:52,445 --> 00:26:53,652 - There you go, nina. - Yeah, nina. 669 00:26:55,489 --> 00:26:59,366 The second dish that we would like to taste is from the south. 670 00:27:00,620 --> 00:27:03,245 It featured absolute perfect seasoning. 671 00:27:03,289 --> 00:27:06,957 So please come forward, reagan. 672 00:27:07,001 --> 00:27:10,169 - ( cheering ) - reagan: I think the judges are gonna say 673 00:27:10,212 --> 00:27:12,379 That this dish has plenty of flavor, 674 00:27:12,381 --> 00:27:15,090 The crunch on that chicken is perfect. 675 00:27:15,134 --> 00:27:16,300 I know they're gonna love that. 676 00:27:16,385 --> 00:27:18,218 I would love to get a pin, 677 00:27:18,262 --> 00:27:20,220 And I think this dish can do that. 678 00:27:20,264 --> 00:27:22,181 Reagan, please describe your dish. 679 00:27:22,224 --> 00:27:24,058 We have festivals in new orleans, 680 00:27:24,060 --> 00:27:26,435 So I chose the fried chicken festival 681 00:27:26,437 --> 00:27:27,519 Because it's black-owned, 682 00:27:27,563 --> 00:27:30,105 And so I wanna make sure I highlight that. 683 00:27:30,149 --> 00:27:34,568 I made a panéed chicken breast with a lemon butter crab sauce 684 00:27:34,570 --> 00:27:38,405 Over garlic mashed potatoes and a deconstructed hot sauce. 685 00:27:38,449 --> 00:27:40,574 I appreciate the fact that you were bold and said, 686 00:27:40,618 --> 00:27:43,285 "you know what? I'm gonna do that gilding of the crab meat." 687 00:27:43,329 --> 00:27:45,037 'cause that's very typical new orleans. 688 00:27:45,072 --> 00:27:46,497 I'm interested to see how everything mingles. 689 00:27:56,550 --> 00:27:58,300 Gordon: Chicken is cooked beautifully. 690 00:27:58,344 --> 00:28:00,469 It's moist, it's juicy, it's succulent, 691 00:28:00,471 --> 00:28:03,972 But the real joy here is just the seasoning in that panée. 692 00:28:04,016 --> 00:28:07,267 And the harmony of those flavors is beautiful, so really good job. 693 00:28:07,311 --> 00:28:11,313 - Thank you so much. - The chicken and that sauce and the seasoning and the fry? 694 00:28:11,357 --> 00:28:13,315 - All day long. - Thank you, sir. 695 00:28:13,359 --> 00:28:15,359 Everything about this dish is spot on, 696 00:28:15,403 --> 00:28:17,319 And it's a dish that you wanna eat all of. 697 00:28:17,363 --> 00:28:19,196 - Good job. - Thank you. Thank you so much. 698 00:28:19,240 --> 00:28:21,073 - Thank you. - Thank you. 699 00:28:21,117 --> 00:28:23,742 - Good job, reagan! - Let's go, reagan! 700 00:28:23,786 --> 00:28:26,370 Good job, girl! 701 00:28:26,372 --> 00:28:30,165 The next dish we wanna taste is from the midwest. 702 00:28:30,167 --> 00:28:32,251 It was cooked by a gentleman 703 00:28:32,336 --> 00:28:36,171 Who made great use of lobster. 704 00:28:36,173 --> 00:28:39,258 Please come forward, kyle. 705 00:28:39,260 --> 00:28:41,260 - Let's go, kyle. - Let's go, kyle. 706 00:28:42,513 --> 00:28:44,430 Kyle: It is an amazing feeling. 707 00:28:44,473 --> 00:28:47,766 I'm just taking deep breaths. I'm trying to control myself. 708 00:28:47,768 --> 00:28:49,518 And all I can think about is 709 00:28:49,562 --> 00:28:51,770 I hope they like it as much as I do. 710 00:28:51,772 --> 00:28:54,815 I made beer battered lobster fries 711 00:28:54,817 --> 00:28:56,358 With a fennel slaw 712 00:28:56,402 --> 00:28:59,695 That I made a lemon tarragon beer vinaigrette for. 713 00:28:59,780 --> 00:29:02,614 I have to say, of the dishes tonight from a state fair, 714 00:29:02,616 --> 00:29:05,534 This is the dish that most closely really gets 715 00:29:05,578 --> 00:29:07,369 To a professionally prepared restaurant dish. 716 00:29:07,413 --> 00:29:08,454 Thank you, joe. 717 00:29:08,497 --> 00:29:11,248 Yeah, it looks beautiful. Shall we? 718 00:29:19,258 --> 00:29:21,049 I'm always nervous when you cook from raw 719 00:29:21,093 --> 00:29:23,594 'cause the lobster tends to become rubbery, 720 00:29:23,637 --> 00:29:25,429 But lobster's delicious. 721 00:29:25,473 --> 00:29:27,347 Batter just crisp and melts in your mouth. 722 00:29:27,349 --> 00:29:29,516 I don't know if you actually understand 723 00:29:29,560 --> 00:29:32,311 How hard it is to accomplish fried lobster, 724 00:29:32,313 --> 00:29:34,563 But you've done it beautifully. 725 00:29:34,565 --> 00:29:38,358 It's "masterchef," gordon. I'm here to play. 726 00:29:38,402 --> 00:29:40,694 Here's a subtle thing that you did that I think is really neat. 727 00:29:40,780 --> 00:29:42,321 Tarragon and lobster go beautiful, 728 00:29:42,364 --> 00:29:44,323 So when I got a little bite of that tarragon 729 00:29:44,366 --> 00:29:46,149 And that crispy sort of rich lobster, 730 00:29:46,160 --> 00:29:47,743 It just makes for a beautiful bite. 731 00:29:47,787 --> 00:29:49,328 Awesome. Thank you. 732 00:29:49,330 --> 00:29:52,080 Yeah, you great seasoning everywhere, good acidity, 733 00:29:52,124 --> 00:29:53,457 Good creaminess, good contrasts. 734 00:29:53,501 --> 00:29:54,792 It's about as good as it gets. 735 00:29:54,835 --> 00:29:56,418 - Thank you, joe. - Thanks, kyle. 736 00:29:56,462 --> 00:29:59,630 - Atta boy, kyle. - Kyle! 737 00:30:01,050 --> 00:30:03,300 Good job, guys. Good job. 738 00:30:03,344 --> 00:30:06,595 The final dish of course hails from the west. 739 00:30:06,597 --> 00:30:11,350 This dish showed tremendous depth of flavor. 740 00:30:12,228 --> 00:30:13,727 Please step forward... 741 00:30:15,731 --> 00:30:17,648 James. 742 00:30:17,650 --> 00:30:20,609 - Whoo! - James! 743 00:30:20,611 --> 00:30:23,195 James: I'm feeling excited that I'm in the top four right now, 744 00:30:23,239 --> 00:30:26,156 That I can save my region and get that immunity pin. 745 00:30:26,200 --> 00:30:27,324 But it's nerve-wracking 746 00:30:27,368 --> 00:30:29,117 Standing in front of the judges. 747 00:30:29,161 --> 00:30:31,203 Anybody tells you it's a piece of cake, it's not. 748 00:30:31,247 --> 00:30:33,622 Okay, james, what's the dish? 749 00:30:33,666 --> 00:30:36,542 The dish is a mushroom festival burger 750 00:30:36,585 --> 00:30:38,335 And a nice garlic aioli, 751 00:30:38,379 --> 00:30:40,212 Some arugula, some wild mushrooms, 752 00:30:40,256 --> 00:30:42,339 And I finished it off with caramelized onions. 753 00:30:42,383 --> 00:30:44,258 It screams, "dive in and eat me." 754 00:30:44,301 --> 00:30:46,468 - Let's do that. - Shall we? 755 00:30:51,475 --> 00:30:52,516 Joe and aarón: Ooh. 756 00:30:57,481 --> 00:30:59,189 I don't know what to say. Perfection. 757 00:30:59,233 --> 00:31:00,190 - I have no comment. - Gordon: Wow. 758 00:31:00,234 --> 00:31:02,276 Joe: It's really that good. 759 00:31:02,319 --> 00:31:03,777 For me, I just think the magic in this burger 760 00:31:03,821 --> 00:31:06,113 Lies in that everything is in balance. 761 00:31:06,115 --> 00:31:07,865 Mushrooms, especially when you're using powder, 762 00:31:07,867 --> 00:31:12,035 That can totally obliterate the natural essence of the beef, 763 00:31:12,079 --> 00:31:13,328 - And it didn't. - Yes, chef. 764 00:31:13,372 --> 00:31:15,247 This burger's got attitude. You know? 765 00:31:15,291 --> 00:31:17,499 The blend of the patty with the ratio of fat to beef? 766 00:31:17,501 --> 00:31:19,418 Absolutely spot on. The cook is exceptional, okay? 767 00:31:19,461 --> 00:31:23,005 And trust me, I know a good burger a mile away. 768 00:31:23,048 --> 00:31:24,798 Well done. Step down. Good job. 769 00:31:24,800 --> 00:31:28,343 - Good job, james! - ( cheering ) 770 00:31:28,387 --> 00:31:30,679 - ( sighs ) - good job. 771 00:31:32,266 --> 00:31:33,765 All of you please, give us a moment. 772 00:31:33,809 --> 00:31:37,311 Excuse us. 773 00:31:37,354 --> 00:31:40,063 So, nina, fish sandwich. How crisp was that batter? 774 00:31:40,107 --> 00:31:42,065 - Very good. - The dressing, it wasn't overpowering. 775 00:31:42,109 --> 00:31:43,525 - It didn't dominate. - Gordon: No. 776 00:31:43,569 --> 00:31:45,777 Joe: The lobster, real restaurant dish. 777 00:31:45,821 --> 00:31:47,154 I was amazed how crispy it was. 778 00:31:47,197 --> 00:31:48,322 Joe: Fried chicken, top notch. 779 00:31:48,365 --> 00:31:50,073 Maybe a little bit too homey for me. 780 00:31:50,117 --> 00:31:52,075 - Gordon: Burger? - Oh, the burger, come on. 781 00:31:52,119 --> 00:31:54,494 - Gordon: Yeah, exceptional. - This is too much. 782 00:31:54,496 --> 00:31:56,413 - So all in agreement then? - Yeah. 783 00:31:56,457 --> 00:31:57,706 - Shall we? - All right, guys, good luck. 784 00:31:57,750 --> 00:31:58,707 Good luck, guys. 785 00:31:58,751 --> 00:31:59,708 Nina, reagan, 786 00:31:59,752 --> 00:32:02,044 Kyle, james, well done. 787 00:32:02,087 --> 00:32:05,130 But tonight's best dish was cooked by... 788 00:32:22,191 --> 00:32:24,316 Nina, reagan, kyle, james, 789 00:32:24,360 --> 00:32:27,736 Tonight's best dish was cooked by 790 00:32:27,780 --> 00:32:31,281 And the immunity pin goes to... 791 00:32:33,202 --> 00:32:35,410 - Kyle. - ( sighs ) 792 00:32:35,496 --> 00:32:37,120 - Yeah! - Kyle! 793 00:32:37,164 --> 00:32:39,539 - Yeah, midwest! - Midwest! 794 00:32:39,583 --> 00:32:42,334 Everybody else, please return to your stations. 795 00:32:42,336 --> 00:32:44,252 - Kyle, exceptional. - Good job, guys. 796 00:32:44,296 --> 00:32:46,296 - Come up here and get your immunity pin. - Wow. 797 00:32:46,340 --> 00:32:49,299 First pin of the season. Really well done. 798 00:32:49,343 --> 00:32:50,759 - Thank you. - Which means tonight 799 00:32:50,761 --> 00:32:53,428 You and the whole of the midwest 800 00:32:53,430 --> 00:32:56,431 - Are safe from elimination. - Awesome. 801 00:32:56,475 --> 00:32:59,476 All of you, make your way up to the balcony with your team. 802 00:32:59,520 --> 00:33:02,312 Look at that! I came here to win. 803 00:33:02,314 --> 00:33:05,107 I came here to prove that I'm a great chef. 804 00:33:05,109 --> 00:33:08,110 I think the other people on the midwest team are pretty happy I got this. 805 00:33:08,153 --> 00:33:11,530 I love the fact that I was able to give them immunity tonight. 806 00:33:11,532 --> 00:33:13,281 Wayne, fyi, 807 00:33:13,367 --> 00:33:16,326 That risotto was not on point tonight. 808 00:33:16,328 --> 00:33:18,537 It was wrong on every aspect, 809 00:33:18,539 --> 00:33:20,789 And you certainly would've been in the bottom. 810 00:33:20,833 --> 00:33:23,041 So you can thank your teammate kyle for your spot on the balcony. 811 00:33:23,085 --> 00:33:24,459 - You got skills. You're all right. - Won't happen again. 812 00:33:24,461 --> 00:33:26,837 - You're all right. - There was a chance that 813 00:33:26,880 --> 00:33:29,339 I could've been going home if kyle hadn't saved me, 814 00:33:29,341 --> 00:33:32,092 And so I'm realizing that this immunity pin 815 00:33:32,094 --> 00:33:34,386 Is gonna make all the difference this season. 816 00:33:35,472 --> 00:33:40,058 Now there is one dish from each region 817 00:33:40,060 --> 00:33:42,811 That really missed the bar tonight. 818 00:33:42,813 --> 00:33:45,022 First dish from northeast, 819 00:33:45,065 --> 00:33:47,274 This dish started out as a good idea, 820 00:33:47,317 --> 00:33:52,404 But the final execution was just off balance. 821 00:33:53,532 --> 00:33:55,615 Please come forward... 822 00:33:57,327 --> 00:33:59,453 Richie. 823 00:33:59,496 --> 00:34:01,079 Richie: I know the plating might not be the best, 824 00:34:01,165 --> 00:34:02,831 But I know those flavors are there. 825 00:34:02,875 --> 00:34:04,624 That cheesecake cream is delicious. 826 00:34:04,668 --> 00:34:06,460 The candied bacon is amazing, 827 00:34:06,462 --> 00:34:08,670 And I'm hoping that those flavors are what save me today. 828 00:34:10,382 --> 00:34:12,549 Gordon: So, richie, describe the dish, please. 829 00:34:12,593 --> 00:34:15,218 Richie: I made a deconstructed cheesecake 830 00:34:15,262 --> 00:34:17,304 With mascarpone crema, a graham cracker crust 831 00:34:17,306 --> 00:34:20,265 With a berry compote, and a candied bacon tuile. 832 00:34:20,309 --> 00:34:22,851 This is disappointing. This is "masterchef." 833 00:34:22,895 --> 00:34:26,605 And I'm looking at this and I just can't see state fair realized. 834 00:34:26,607 --> 00:34:29,024 I just see garnishes. You understand what I'm saying? 835 00:34:29,068 --> 00:34:30,609 - Fair. - Gordon: Shall we? 836 00:34:38,786 --> 00:34:40,452 The bacon's delicious. 837 00:34:40,496 --> 00:34:41,661 I love that with that cheesecake texture. 838 00:34:41,705 --> 00:34:43,497 - That is absolutely spot on. - Thank you. 839 00:34:43,540 --> 00:34:46,333 But I suppose what I wanna see is it elevated into a dish. 840 00:34:46,376 --> 00:34:50,253 Had you put a little poundcake or something in the middle 841 00:34:50,297 --> 00:34:52,464 With all of this exterior goodness, 842 00:34:52,466 --> 00:34:53,507 We wouldn't be even talking right now. 843 00:34:53,550 --> 00:34:55,509 And at this stage in the competition, 844 00:34:55,511 --> 00:34:58,095 You cannot play it safe. 845 00:34:58,138 --> 00:35:00,097 I think with this dish, you're not even playing the game. 846 00:35:00,140 --> 00:35:02,599 You didn't listen to what we asked for today. 847 00:35:02,601 --> 00:35:06,228 This dish would make an excellent ice cream topping. 848 00:35:07,689 --> 00:35:09,815 It's not a dish. 849 00:35:09,817 --> 00:35:11,066 - Thanks, richie. - Thank you. 850 00:35:11,068 --> 00:35:13,318 Step back, please. Thank you. 851 00:35:15,531 --> 00:35:17,697 Okay, the second dish we need to taste 852 00:35:17,699 --> 00:35:18,698 Is from the south. 853 00:35:18,742 --> 00:35:20,617 It's from a cook who concerned us 854 00:35:20,661 --> 00:35:23,411 With both their seasoning and their plating. 855 00:35:23,455 --> 00:35:24,871 Kendal. 856 00:35:24,873 --> 00:35:26,414 I feel like I just got my apron. 857 00:35:26,416 --> 00:35:28,416 There's no way I wanna be the first one eliminated. 858 00:35:28,460 --> 00:35:31,128 I'm just hoping that I can survive another week 859 00:35:31,171 --> 00:35:32,379 And prove myself. 860 00:35:32,422 --> 00:35:34,297 All right, tell us what this dish is. 861 00:35:34,341 --> 00:35:36,424 Kendal: In our local county fair, 862 00:35:36,468 --> 00:35:39,052 We walk around eating chicken on a stick. 863 00:35:39,096 --> 00:35:42,305 So I made herb roasted chicken kabob 864 00:35:42,349 --> 00:35:46,184 With a potato croquette and a bacon wrapped asparagus. 865 00:35:46,228 --> 00:35:49,062 Is the proportion of each item intentional 866 00:35:49,106 --> 00:35:50,730 Or is it just kinda random? 867 00:35:50,774 --> 00:35:52,232 Just kinda random. 868 00:35:54,444 --> 00:35:57,529 I really and truly kinda threw it together at the end. 869 00:35:57,573 --> 00:36:00,031 - You can definitely see that. - Yes, sir. 870 00:36:00,075 --> 00:36:01,324 Gordon: Shall we? 871 00:36:09,418 --> 00:36:11,334 The cook on the chicken is delicious. 872 00:36:11,378 --> 00:36:13,962 But, you know, when you get a chance to make a croquette, 873 00:36:14,006 --> 00:36:17,424 Put some bacon and cheese in the center so it's an exceptional croquette. 874 00:36:17,467 --> 00:36:19,050 Yes, sir. 875 00:36:19,094 --> 00:36:21,386 I think those croquettes are crispy on the outside, 876 00:36:21,430 --> 00:36:24,264 But zero seasoning, which is very un-southernly of you. 877 00:36:24,308 --> 00:36:27,184 - Uh, yes, sir. - Yeah? I like the seasoning on the kabobs. 878 00:36:27,227 --> 00:36:30,061 That was the seasoning that you should've applied to the actual croquettes. 879 00:36:30,105 --> 00:36:33,190 But just clunky all the way around. 880 00:36:33,233 --> 00:36:35,692 I think you lost your vision for what it might've been. 881 00:36:35,736 --> 00:36:37,319 It's not terrible. 882 00:36:37,362 --> 00:36:41,656 I would eat it, but it's lacking in opinion. 883 00:36:41,700 --> 00:36:43,325 - Thank you. - Thank you. 884 00:36:48,957 --> 00:36:52,792 All right, so the final dish that we would like to taste is from the west. 885 00:36:52,794 --> 00:36:54,836 It comes from a young lady 886 00:36:54,838 --> 00:36:58,089 Who unfortunately did not elevate 887 00:36:58,133 --> 00:37:00,008 Beyond the expectations. 888 00:37:00,052 --> 00:37:03,261 Please come forward, amanda. 889 00:37:05,849 --> 00:37:08,808 Amanda: I'm not surprised that I'm in the bottom. 890 00:37:08,810 --> 00:37:11,228 I went way out of my comfort zone. 891 00:37:11,271 --> 00:37:13,396 I cooked something I've never cooked before. 892 00:37:13,440 --> 00:37:16,608 Oh, no. She's serving a taco to aarón. 893 00:37:16,610 --> 00:37:20,528 In my heart, I knew should've just stuck with what I know. 894 00:37:20,572 --> 00:37:23,907 Amanda, can you please give us a description of your dish? 895 00:37:23,942 --> 00:37:27,202 I made roasted cod fish tacos 896 00:37:27,246 --> 00:37:29,204 With homemade tortillas. 897 00:37:29,248 --> 00:37:31,456 One is a very fresh green sauce, 898 00:37:31,500 --> 00:37:34,459 And one is a very spicy red sauce. 899 00:37:34,503 --> 00:37:37,212 I made them because in california 900 00:37:37,214 --> 00:37:40,382 You can't go to a fair without seeing tacos everywhere. 901 00:37:40,425 --> 00:37:44,636 I appreciate the fact that you went for the homemade tortilla and the two different sauces, 902 00:37:44,721 --> 00:37:47,847 But I can nip outside and 300 meters down the road 903 00:37:47,891 --> 00:37:51,184 I can buy one at $3 that will look better than those. 904 00:37:52,271 --> 00:37:53,144 Wow. 905 00:37:53,188 --> 00:37:54,688 They just look sad. 906 00:38:06,410 --> 00:38:10,537 - Amanda, they just look sad. - Wow. 907 00:38:12,457 --> 00:38:13,540 Shall we? 908 00:38:25,345 --> 00:38:29,472 Amanda, just sticking the fish in the oven and baking it 909 00:38:29,516 --> 00:38:32,183 Is not the smartest way of cooking fish. 910 00:38:32,227 --> 00:38:35,353 So, sadly, my tortilla was very thick, very dry. 911 00:38:35,397 --> 00:38:37,022 It needs at least some color on there. 912 00:38:37,065 --> 00:38:39,024 It's just sort of floury and doughy. 913 00:38:39,067 --> 00:38:43,028 There's no acidity, there's no slaw, there's no heat. 914 00:38:43,030 --> 00:38:46,072 - Knowing what you stood for-- - I should have just done my-- 915 00:38:46,074 --> 00:38:49,200 I'll just quickly finish my sentence, please. 916 00:38:49,202 --> 00:38:52,454 I'm thinking back to the audition and the wow factor. 917 00:38:52,497 --> 00:38:55,457 I think you've gone down a notch. 918 00:38:55,459 --> 00:38:57,083 Aarón: It's just a matter of mis-execution. 919 00:38:57,085 --> 00:38:59,878 I think tacos can be elevated. Sadly, this is not it. 920 00:38:59,880 --> 00:39:02,580 And there's just pico de gallo, which is very rudimentary. 921 00:39:02,591 --> 00:39:06,468 There's crema. The seasoning on the fish is really well done actually. 922 00:39:06,470 --> 00:39:08,887 But just hitting the mark on multiple levels. 923 00:39:08,930 --> 00:39:11,806 It's not a terrible dish. If I came to your house, you gave me that, 924 00:39:11,808 --> 00:39:13,183 And you said you cooked tacos for the first time, 925 00:39:13,226 --> 00:39:15,477 I'd say they were good 'cause I'm polite. 926 00:39:15,520 --> 00:39:18,188 This might be "amanda does tacos for the first time," 927 00:39:18,231 --> 00:39:20,565 - And that's great, but that's not what we want. - Mm-hmm. 928 00:39:20,567 --> 00:39:23,693 - I'm sorry to say that's just the truth. - Thank you, amanda. 929 00:39:23,737 --> 00:39:25,987 Thank you. 930 00:39:26,031 --> 00:39:28,198 Richie, kendal, amanda, 931 00:39:28,241 --> 00:39:30,408 We need a very serious moment, please. 932 00:39:30,452 --> 00:39:32,535 Excuse us. 933 00:39:37,584 --> 00:39:40,001 Talking about kendal, I mean, look, chicken on a stick 934 00:39:40,045 --> 00:39:42,087 - Is something iconic in the south. - Joe: Not like that. 935 00:39:42,130 --> 00:39:44,089 The chicken should've been the center of the dish. 936 00:39:44,091 --> 00:39:47,467 - Amanda's tacos were tough. - You would never bake a taco. Never. 937 00:39:47,511 --> 00:39:49,302 - No. There you go. - A lot of mistakes there. 938 00:39:49,304 --> 00:39:51,054 Gordon: Richie's, was that a completed dish 939 00:39:51,056 --> 00:39:53,223 - Or was it a-- - no, it was just an idea. 940 00:39:54,309 --> 00:39:57,185 - So we all in agreement? - Yes. 941 00:40:02,526 --> 00:40:05,151 Gordon: Richie, kendal, and amanda, 942 00:40:05,153 --> 00:40:07,320 All of three you really disappointed us tonight, 943 00:40:07,364 --> 00:40:12,075 And more importantly, you let yourself down and your region. 944 00:40:12,077 --> 00:40:13,493 We've come to a decision. 945 00:40:15,455 --> 00:40:17,288 This is never easy. 946 00:40:17,332 --> 00:40:19,165 The home cook that will be leaving 947 00:40:19,209 --> 00:40:23,253 "masterchef" tonight is... 948 00:40:27,676 --> 00:40:28,675 Amanda. 949 00:40:31,596 --> 00:40:34,389 Oh, my god. 950 00:40:34,433 --> 00:40:36,599 Richie, kendal, say good-bye to amanda 951 00:40:36,601 --> 00:40:39,561 And head back to your stations, please. 952 00:40:41,398 --> 00:40:43,148 Thank you. 953 00:40:47,529 --> 00:40:53,241 Amanda, tonight's objective was to innovate and elevate, 954 00:40:53,243 --> 00:40:57,579 And unfortunately that dish really did miss the mark. 955 00:40:57,622 --> 00:41:00,165 Please say good-bye to your region's teammates 956 00:41:00,208 --> 00:41:01,583 And drop your apron on your stove, please. 957 00:41:01,626 --> 00:41:04,043 Thank you, amanda. 958 00:41:04,087 --> 00:41:09,340 - We love you, amanda! - Amanda: I'm very sad to be the first one eliminated. 959 00:41:09,426 --> 00:41:13,178 I really saw myself going a lot farther than this. 960 00:41:13,221 --> 00:41:15,638 Even though my journey ended early, 961 00:41:15,682 --> 00:41:17,056 I still know I can cook. 962 00:41:17,100 --> 00:41:19,058 I still know that I have 963 00:41:19,102 --> 00:41:20,310 A lot to prove the world. 964 00:41:20,353 --> 00:41:23,021 - Thank you, amanda, - bye, guys. 965 00:41:23,106 --> 00:41:24,522 And I'm going to do that. 966 00:41:29,529 --> 00:41:31,488 Gordon: Next time on "masterchef," 967 00:41:31,531 --> 00:41:33,406 The first mystery box of the season 968 00:41:33,450 --> 00:41:36,451 - Is as american as... - Apples! 969 00:41:36,495 --> 00:41:38,328 And the tactics begin. 970 00:41:38,371 --> 00:41:42,499 Kyle, you get to pick what kind of dish each region cooks. 971 00:41:42,584 --> 00:41:45,376 I'm excited to make them a little less comfortable. 972 00:41:46,296 --> 00:41:48,213 - ( bleep ) - let's go! 973 00:41:48,256 --> 00:41:50,465 As the cooks battle for their home region... 974 00:41:50,500 --> 00:41:52,967 - You good? - Definitely not in my wheelhouse. 975 00:41:53,011 --> 00:41:54,302 - Oh, great. - Not gonna let you down again. 976 00:41:54,346 --> 00:41:56,554 Did you put salt instead of sugar on them? 977 00:41:56,598 --> 00:41:59,724 The only thing worse than the dish is lying to us. 978 00:41:59,768 --> 00:42:02,268 I hate being lied to.