Week five signals the true beginning of the competition – many good chefs have fallen by the wayside over the last four weeks, and we’re left with the twelve strongest competitors. The opening rounds always single out the strongest, most confident chefs, but this part of the series tests other intangibles – their leadership, communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
This week saw our chefs take on an invention test first – Marcus and Monica gave them a huge range of ingredients but took away the sous vide water baths in the kitchen, forcing the competitors to show off their mastery of traditional cooking techniques. Next, they divided into two teams to tackle a three-course meal for maritime charity Trinity House and the Royal College of Physicians. Twelve contestants started the week, but only eight finished it – read on for some of the things we learnt this week.
