It’s episode 42 of MasterChef Australia 2023 and it was time to hit the road! The final five, Brent, Cath, Declan, Rhiannon and Theo rolled into the bountiful Murray region of Victoria, fondly known as ‘Australia’s food bowl’ alongside the judges, Jock Zonfrillo, Melissa Leong and Andy Allen.

During the challenge, which took place at the prestigious All Saints Estate, Cath, Theo, Declan and Rhiannon faced off in a classic MasterChef time auction.

Each contestant began the auction with 120 minutes to bid on ingredients in three categories: proteins, fruit and vegetables, and pantry items.

The high-stakes showdown saw the competitors spice up their bidding skills, followed by a cook, with the best dish winning its maker a golden ticket to Thursday’s Immunity Challenge.

The Auction

Theo bid on the Pork Belly for 40 minutes of his cook time, while Declan won the Murray Cod for 40 minutes. Rhiannon, who was super competitive, bid on the Yabbies for 50 minutes, and Cath was given the Rabbit, with no time taken off.

Next up was the basket of root veggies, which Cath won, losing 35 minutes off her cook.

Celians were then on offer, which Declan won for 30 minutes less time in the kitchen before Rhiannon won the leafy greens for 15 minutes; which left the orchard fruits for Theo who did not lose any additional minutes.

Finally, the pantry items were on offer.

Herbs were won by Cath for 30 minutes, while Rhiannon won the vinegar and wine for 25 minutes. Finally, the preserves and jams were given to Theo for 40 minutes, and Declan was given the spices without a time penalty.

The Dishes and The Judging

First up to the Judges was Theo, who had 40 minutes to cook. He presented a Glazed Porkchop with a Fig and Apple Salad.

Mel called the pork “the star of the show”, while Andy said he had “treated it really well”, while Jock called the dish a “stand-out”.

Next up was Cath with her Fricassee Rabbit.

Andy said the concept was good and that the loin was cooked beautifully, however, she overcooked the liver and the balance of the sauce was not right. Mel said if she had more time, it would have been great but wasn’t her finest work while Jock said it “could have been delicious”.

Following Cath was Rhiannon with Grilled Yabbies with Butter Sauce and Rocket Salad. She was not happy with her cook given the time constraints.

Jock said they didn’t look cooked which was confirmed when they cut into it. Jock said he was “devastated” for her because the clock was her biggest obstacle.

Finally, our boy Declan delivered a “risky” Poached Murray Cod and Charred Leek with Onion Jam and Crispy Shallots. The judges praised his perfect cook of the fish while Jock called the dish “mental” and “absolute perfection”; however, his onions were burnt. They also concurred that he is the King of Fish and subsequently King of our Heart.

The Verdict

Theo was named victorious with his pork belly and will join Brent in Thursday’s Immunity Challenge, earning him a chance to get a one-way ticket to Finals Week.

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

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