Ep 21. Battle Rice

In season 6, episode 21 of Iron Chef, the culinary competition heats up as the secret ingredient for the battle is revealed to be rice. The episode, named "Battle Rice," features Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto and his challenger, Chef Kerry Simon, as they use their chef skills and expertise to prepare dishes using the versatile grain.

Both Iron Chef Morimoto and Chef Simon have a unique approach to cooking rice. While Morimoto is known for his traditional Japanese cuisine, Chef Simon incorporates his American flair into his dishes. The judges, including Iron Chef veterans and culinary experts, will be judging based on the taste, presentation, and creativity of the dishes.

The episode begins with a grand entrance of the honoree, Chairman Kaga, who is wearing his signature flamboyant outfit. Meanwhile, the countdown clock is set for 60 minutes as the chefs start preparing their dishes. The chefs are allowed to use any kind of rice, from traditional white rice to brown, sushi, or even wild rice.

Iron Chef Morimoto starts off by preparing a sushi roll filled with lobster and wrapped in sesame rice. He also prepares a dish using risotto rice and squid ink, which creates a beautiful black and white presentation. Chef Simon, on the other hand, creates a dessert using a sweet rice pudding with a caramel drizzle.

As the clock ticks down, both chefs are rushing to finish their dishes. Iron Chef Morimoto is seen frantically making a rice porridge while Chef Simon is putting the finishing touches on his rice-stuffed quail dish.

Once the cooking is complete, it's time for the judges to taste the dishes. The first dish presented is Iron Chef Morimoto's sesame and lobster sushi roll. The judges are thrilled with the combination of flavors and textures in the dish. Chef Simon presents his dish of rice-stuffed quail, which receives high praise for its creativity and presentation.

Next up is Iron Chef Morimoto's squid ink risotto, which is loved for its unique flavor and color. Chef Simon's dish of pork chops with rice pilaf is also enjoyed by the judges. Finally, both chefs present their dessert dishes, with Iron Chef Morimoto's strawberry and rice cake dish being a particular hit.

After the judges have tasted all the dishes, they are asked to make their final decision. The winner of the battle is revealed in a dramatic moment, with the chefs eagerly awaiting the result. Will Iron Chef Morimoto continue his unbeaten record on the show, or will Chef Simon pull off an upset and claim victory?

Overall, "Battle Rice" is a thrilling episode of Iron Chef that highlights the creativity and skill of some of the world's best chefs. The use of rice as a secret ingredient adds an interesting twist to the competition, and the judges' reactions to the dishes are sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.