Ep 23. Room for 'shrooms

In this exciting episode of Chopped season 37, four talented chefs compete in a culinary battle for the chance to win $10,000. The theme for this episode is "Room for 'shrooms," which means that mushrooms of different varieties and flavors will be the key ingredient in all three rounds. The chefs are challenged to create innovative, delicious dishes that showcase mushrooms in unique ways.

The first round begins with the chefs being given a basket of mystery ingredients, which includes mushrooms and other items such as octopus, queso fresco, and fava beans. They have 20 minutes to create an appetizer that impresses the judges and highlights the mushrooms. It's a race against the clock as the chefs chop, sauté, and plate their dishes under the pressure of the competition.

After the judges taste and critique the appetizers, one chef is eliminated, and the remaining three move on to the entree round. This round is even more challenging as the chefs are given a basket of ingredients that includes mushrooms, venison, sunchokes, and dragon fruit. They have just 30 minutes to create a stunning entree that features the mushrooms and showcases the unique flavors of the other ingredients.

The chefs are forced to think outside the box and come up with creative ways to combine the diverse flavors and textures of the ingredients. They experiment with different cooking techniques and plating styles to create entrees that are visually appealing and full of flavor.

After the judges taste and critique the entrees, one chef is eliminated, and the final two move on to the dessert round. This is the last chance for the chefs to prove themselves before the winner is chosen. They are given a basket of ingredients that includes mushrooms, apricots, chocolate, and sesame seeds. They have just 30 minutes to create a dessert that incorporates the mushrooms and ties together the flavors of the other ingredients.

The chefs use their culinary skills to create unique and delicious desserts that are both visually stunning and full of flavor. They experiment with different cooking techniques and use the ingredients in unexpected ways to create dishes that are sure to impress the judges.

As the judges taste and critique the desserts, it becomes clear that there is no clear winner. Both chefs have impressed with their creativity, skill, and flavor combinations. In the end, it comes down to the smallest details, and the winner is chosen based on the judges' personal preferences.

Overall, this episode of Chopped season 37 is a thrilling display of culinary talent and creativity. The chefs prove that mushrooms can be used in a wide variety of dishes and that they are a versatile ingredient that can be combined with a wide range of flavors. Whether you're a mushroom lover or just a fan of great food, this episode of Chopped is sure to satisfy.