Watch Throwdown with Michael Symon

Throwdown with Michael Symon is a cooking competition show that aired on Food Network in 2021. The show is hosted by Michael Symon, a celebrity chef known for his bold and flavorful cooking style. Each episode of the show pits Michael against a skilled home cook or chef in a cooking competition. The twist is that Michael does not know what dish he will be cooking until the moment he is presented with the challenge. The home cook or chef serves as Michael's opponent and must cook their signature dish, while Michael has to come up with his own unique take on the dish.

The show features a fast-paced and exciting format, as Michael and his opponent race against the clock to create their dishes. The competition takes place in a kitchen set that is designed to resemble an outdoor cookout, complete with grills, burners, and a smoker. The set is decorated with red and white checkered tablecloths and picnic baskets, giving it a casual, laid-back feel.

Katie Pickens, a food writer, and Esther Choi, a chef and cookbook author, serve as Michael's co-hosts and judges on the show. They provide commentary throughout the competition, offering insights into the dishes and providing feedback on the contestants' culinary skills.

Each episode of the show features a different theme or challenge, with a wide variety of dishes being cooked. Some episodes focus on classic comfort foods, while others explore international cuisine. The challenges range from baking pies and making pasta from scratch to grilling steaks and smoking ribs.

One of the unique features of Throwdown with Michael Symon is the emphasis on home cooks and amateur chefs. The show gives these food enthusiasts a chance to showcase their skills and go up against a professional chef. This adds an element of excitement and unpredictability to the competition, as even Michael can be caught off guard by a particularly talented home cook.

The show also highlights different cooking styles and techniques, as Michael often takes a non-traditional approach to the classic dishes he is challenged to make. He incorporates bold flavors, unusual ingredients, and unexpected twists to create a dish that is unique and exciting.

The judging on the show is based on taste, presentation, and creativity. The judges taste both dishes without knowing which one was made by Michael, and then give their unbiased feedback. The winner receives bragging rights, as well as a trophy and a $1,000 prize.

Overall, Throwdown with Michael Symon is an entertaining and engaging cooking competition show that offers a fresh take on the genre. Michael's easygoing personality, combined with the high-stakes competition and the variety of dishes, makes for a fun and unpredictable viewing experience. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just a casual foodie, this show is sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious food and exciting entertainment.

Throwdown with Michael Symon is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between December 7, 2021 and on Food Network