Ep 34. Masterclass 7

MasterChef Australia season 5 episode 34 titled "Masterclass 7" features the three judges, Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris, and Matt Preston, as they demonstrate new and exciting cooking techniques to the contestants. The episode focuses on learning how to use vegetables in different ways and how to make dishes that are both healthy and delicious.

In the beginning, Chef Gary starts his demonstration on slow-cooked lamb ragu with polenta. He enlightens the contestants on the importance of cooking the lamb in such a way that it is soft and tender and comes apart easily. He explains all the ingredients that go into the dish, including the additions that make it unique, such as anchovies and balsamic vinegar.

Next up, Chef George takes the lead and shows the contestants how to make a tangy and refreshing green papaya salad with prawns. He explains how to choose the right papaya that is firm and not too ripe, and how to prepare it by shredding it with a special tool. He also demonstrates how to develop the flavors in the dish by adding fish sauce and lime juice.

Then, Chef Matt steps up to the plate and teaches the contestants how to make a smoked eggplant and goat's cheese lasagna. He starts by explaining the process of smoking an eggplant, which is the foundation of the dish. He then moves on to the other components, such as the tangy goat's cheese and the delicious tomato sauce.

Throughout the episode, the contestants get a chance to ask the judges questions and learn invaluable cooking tips. They also get the opportunity to taste the dishes and critique them, which is a great learning experience in and of itself. While the judges are demonstrating their dishes, the contestants take notes and try to absorb everything.

In between the demonstrations, the episode also features guest chef Shannon Bennett, who showcases his sweet potato galette with prawns and mango salsa. He walks the contestants through the process of preparing the dish, which involves grating the sweet potato and creating a delicious salsa with mango, coriander, and lime.

Overall, MasterChef Australia season 5 episode 34 is a masterclass in vegetable-based cooking. The judges demonstrate how to use ingredients like eggplant, papaya, and sweet potato in creative and delicious ways. The episode also showcases guest Chef Shannon Bennett, who shows off his prawn and sweet potato galette. Throughout the episode, the contestants learn valuable cooking tips and tricks that they can take with them as they move forward in the competition. It's an episode that's both educational and entertaining, and one that's sure to inspire viewers to experiment with new flavors and techniques in their own kitchens.