Ep 12. Symon vs. Mooking

Symon vs. Mooking is the twelfth episode of the ninth season of Iron Chef America. In this highly anticipated episode, Iron Chef Michael Symon goes head-to-head against challenger Roger Mooking in a fiery culinary battle.

Iron Chef Symon, known for his bold flavors and creative twists on classic dishes, has faced some tough competition in the past, but challenger Mooking, a globally-renowned chef and host of TV shows such as Everyday Exotic and Man Fire Food, is not one to be underestimated.

The competition begins with a secret ingredient: branzino, a Mediterranean sea bass. Both chefs have 60 minutes to create a multi-course meal using this fish as the star ingredient. The chefs are allowed to bring in their own sous chefs to assist them in the kitchen, but the main dishes must be created by the challenger and the Iron Chef themselves.

As the clock ticks down, tension builds in the kitchen as both chefs race to complete their dishes. Chef Symon dazzles the judges with his unique take on branzino, offering up dishes such as branzino tartare, branzino with a spicy romesco sauce, and even a dessert using branzino infused into ice cream.

Challenger Mooking, on the other hand, utilizes his extensive culinary expertise to create dishes that both surprise and delight the judges. He ups the ante with dishes such as branzino sashimi with a chili dipping sauce, branzino cooked in a banana leaf with a spicy Jamaican-style sauce, and even a branzino ceviche that is both refreshing and bold.

As the judges sample each dish, they are tasked with deciding the winner based on criteria such as taste, presentation, and creativity. With every dish, the tension in the room rises as they deliberate on which chef deserves to take home the title of Iron Chef.

Will Iron Chef Symon remain undefeated, or will challenger Mooking snatch the title away from him? This intense battle is one that fans of Iron Chef America will not want to miss.