It’s episode 41 of MasterChef Australia 2023, and the Top Five, Brent, Cath, Declan, Rhiannon and Theo, were tasked with a Mystery Box bursting with delightful Perino tomatoes.

With only 60 minutes on the clock, they had to create a dish using the tantalising gems, along with at least two hand-picked ingredients taken fresh from the bounty of the MC garden.

While a scrumptious test to say the least, the stakes were higher than ever because whoever cooked the top dish would earn a spot in Thursday’s Immunity Challenge with a twist. To cook for a place in Finals week!

The Dishes and the Judging

Brent’s dish was up first. He presented Pork Belly Skewer with Tomato and Betel Leaf Salsa and Adobo Sauce.

Jock Zonfrillo said it was “probably one of the best things you’ve cooked in the kitchen. Epic.” While Andy Allen said “It’s so bloody good, mate!” and Melissa Leong “couldn’t agree more” saying it was “inspired cooking”.

Theo was up next; however, he felt “deflated” and was concerned he let his mum and YiaYia down. He delivered Dolmades with Tzatziki.

Jock said the rice wasn’t cooked and the vine leaves hadn’t been cooked down; however, his plating was well done while Melissa said she could “taste what it might have been like” if he had more time.

Cath was next to share her Summer Lasagne with Roasted Tomato, Basil and Ricotta. Jock’s “biggest problem” was the ricotta and said she was “so close” with her dish. Andy said it was “good”.

The pressure also got to Rhiannon who shared her Snapper with Eggplant, Tomato and an Eggplant Relish. She admitted she left the fish too late and Jock concurred saying it was raw. “Don’t do that again,” he said.

Finally, our Declan delivered a Thai Fried Fish with Tomato, and Thai Basil Vinaigrette. Andy said the cook on the fish was “outrageously” good while Melissa says she was “impressed” by the dish and “the man himself”. Jock said, “It’s translucent, sexy and you nailed it”.

The Verdict

The two stand-outs were “Declan is your name and today, fish was most certainly the game” and Brent, whose flavours were “ten out of ten”. His Pork Belly was named dish of the day and was given a chance to earn a one-way ticket to Finals Week during Wednesday’s episode.

MasterChef Australia airs Sunday – Thursday at 7.30pm on 10 and 10Play.

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