MasterChef Celebrity Ecuador Season 2 continues to delight audiences with its intense kitchen challenges, and chocolate takes the spotlight this week. On January 3, 2024, contestants faced the exciting mystery box challenge centered around this beloved Ecuadorian ingredient, showcasing their culinary talents with both sweet and savory dishes.
Following the departure of comedian Jerónimo Meneses, the atmosphere was filled with creativity and competition as the contestants worked diligently to highlight chocolate's rich flavors. The chefs—including Natalia Regge and Mar Rendón—emerged victorious, each winning the challenge and gaining advantages for the next competition.
The mystery box challenge required participants to reveal their flair for high cuisine by using chocolate as the main ingredient. The contestants received boxes filled with cacao and instructions to create either sweet or savory dishes. Mar Rendón wowed the judges with her savory dish of chicken with mole ancho and chocolate chips, receiving accolades for its vibrant flavors. "Felicidades, nos dejaste locos con tu plato y la presentación estuvo muy bonita. El plato estaba de 10," said Chef Caro, praising Mar's presentation and execution.
Claudia Camposano attempted to impress the judges with her pig dish served with mushroom and chocolate sauce, but it didn't quite hit the mark with the judges. The critique pointed out overcooked pork, which detracted from the overall enjoyment of her dish.
On the more experimental front, singer-songwriter Ren Kai presented his version of risotto featuring cacao paired with beef. Although Chef Irene noted the risotto was prepared to perfection, she felt the chocolate lacked the depth expected to make the dish memorable. Meanwhile, Cristina Morrison, known as 'Baronesa', prepared chicken with chocolate butter mole, which impressed the judges with its flavor combination and execution.
Another participant, Elba González, showcased her dessert skills with a brownie layered with chocolate brigadeiro, garnished with berries and caramel. Though the judges acknowledged the aesthetic appeal of her dessert, they noted the pastry's texture was overly firm.
Eliminated comedian Jerónimo Meneses cast a shadow over the kitchen, but participants pushed forward. Martín Calle, unfortunately, experienced health issues on the day of the challenge. He felt nauseous and faint before cooking, requiring help from the show's presenter to gather ingredients. After being examined by the show's doctor, it was determined he required rest. Due to his inability to cook, he was awarded a black apron, indicating he would not proceed to the next round.
The episode culminated with judges tasting Natalia Regge's dessert—a chocolate toffee with cookie and nuts presented alongside strawberry and blueberry jam. Chef Irene was particularly fond of this dish, saying she appreciated how it balanced the flavors effectively.
With chocolates dominating the kitchen, the competition remains fierce as winners Mar and Natalia are set to enjoy advantages for the next culinary challenge. The excitement of MasterChef Celebrity Ecuador is sure to continue, pushing contestants to innovate and inspire with Ecuadorian flavors as the competition progresses.