Ep 6. Flay vs. Kinch

In Iron Chef America season 7 episode 6, titled Flay vs. Kinch, two heavyweight chefs go head to head in Kitchen Stadium to create dishes using a secret ingredient. Bobby Flay, the Iron Chef of southwestern cuisine, takes on David Kinch, a highly acclaimed chef and mastermind behind the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Manresa in California.

The episode opens with the announcer introducing the two chefs and revealing the secret ingredient - corn. The challenge is set for both chefs to create five signature dishes using corn as the main ingredient. With just sixty minutes on the clock, the kitchen is a flurry of activity as both chefs work diligently to create their dishes.

Kinch starts off strong, using a variety of techniques to showcase the versatility of corn in his dishes. He creates a corn and scallop soup that impresses the judges with its delicate flavors and unique presentation. He also creates a dish featuring roasted corn, avocado, and crab that is a major hit with the judges. Kinch's attention to detail and understanding of flavors adds depth and complexity to his dishes, putting him in competition with Flay.

Flay, on the other hand, approaches the challenge with a more straightforward approach. He uses his expertise in southwestern cuisine to create dishes like corn tamales and grilled corn, seasoned with his signature spices. While the judges appreciate Flay's use of flavors, they note that his dishes lack the ingenuity and creativity that Kinch's dishes possess.

As the clock ticks down, both chefs struggle to complete their final dishes. The tension in the kitchen mounts as the judges await the final plates. In the end, Kinch impresses the judges with his ability to elevate the humble corn with his culinary prowess.

The judges are especially enamored with Kinch's creative use of corn in his dessert, a corn cake with mascarpone and figs. They praise him for his ability to take a simple ingredient and turn it into something sophisticated and complex.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse into the inner workings of Kitchen Stadium and the intense competition that takes place. The chefs' passion, dedication, and creativity are on full display, as they use their culinary skills to create dishes that delight the taste buds and impress the judges.

Overall, Iron Chef America season 7 episode 6 standout as a prime example of the show's ability to showcase talented chefs and their culinary visions through the use of secret ingredients. This episode inspires viewers to experiment with different ingredients and to push the limits of their creativity in the kitchen.