"The Taste," the popular German cooking competition, returned for its 13th season on October 23, 2024, airing on SAT.1. Initially launched in November 2013, the show has captivated audiences with its unique format, where aspiring chefs compete under the watchful eyes of renowned jurors. The season commenced with the thrilling news of Alexander Herrmann securing extra opportunities for rising talents via his victory in a cook-off among jurors.
Angelina Kirsch, the beloved host since 2020, once again took the reins. The judging panel consists of culinary heavyweights: Frank Rosin, Alexander Herrmann, Alex Kumptner, and Tim Raue, who coach their respective teams as they battle for culinary glory. Throughout the season, contestants prepare mouthwatering dishes, aiming to impress the jurors with just one spoonful. This year, viewers can look forward to unique recipes, ranging from Swabian onion roast to innovative pastry creations.
The competition features nine episodes, with new installments airing every Wednesday at 20:15 CET. Following the premiere, fans could stream all episodes on Joyn, available one week prior to the television broadcast. This flexibility enhances accessibility, allowing cooking enthusiasts not to miss out on the culinary excitement.
For the 2024 season, the contestants are divided among the four coaching teams. Under Team Alexander Herrmann, we have Katja B., 40, a food stylist from Hamburg whose passion for cooking was ignited by her chef parents and influenced by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
Team Alex Kumptner features Franca S., 22, who is now working as Chef de Partie after her training at a five-star hotel, alongside Stephanie S., 34, who balances her work as an integration teacher and mother, focusing on kid-friendly recipes. Doreen M., 60, is also on this team, bringing her unique perspective as an artist who grew up cooking with limited resources.
Craig T., 37, leads Team Frank Rosin. He transformed his life from struggling student to restaurant owner, creating dishes inspired by his fast-food upbringing. The team also includes participants like Craig and Dennis K., who also make significant contributions to the show with their lifetime experiences.
Tim Raue's team brings together Diana E., 40, and Jaqueline P., 35. Diana, known for her innovative desserts, runs her kitchen at a ski resort. Jaqueline, meanwhile, planned to join "The Taste" after promising Coach Kumptner she would aim for culinary victory at the Champions week.
One exciting twist this season is the introduction of new contestants and new features aimed at challenging the competitors. Competitors have revealed their culinary creations are inspired by diverse cultural backgrounds, ensuring the culinary presentations remain fresh and globally influenced.
Among those no longer competing this season are Mladen A. and Hubertus S., who left their respective teams as the competition intensified. Their departures highlight the competitive nature of the show, where only the best dishes secure their places as the season progresses.
Throughout the season, candidates face various challenges reminiscent of holidays and themed events, pushing their creativity and culinary prowess to new heights. For example, they are tasked with recreations based on beloved Christmas films, showcasing their ability to combine culinary skills with imagination.
Fans can expect the series finale on December 18, 2024, where the remaining candidates will cook for twelve guest jurors, including past winners. This episode will not only be exciting for the contestants but also for the viewers, as previous champions return to judge the effort of the new aspirants.
Previously crowned individuals like Felicitas Then, winner of the first season, continue to influence the culinary space, inspiring current contestants with their own success stories. Their journeys encourage the hopefuls to pursue their culinary dreams with determination.
The show's engaging format, coupled with its passionate contestants and experienced judges, ensures "The Taste" remains a staple of German television. By combining taste with technique and personality, the show continues to outline culinary journeys, making it as much about growth and discovery as it is about winning titles and monetary prizes.
With "The Taste 2024," viewers can look forward to each dish bringing new flavors and stories to life, proving yet again why the competition has captivated audiences for over a decade. Audiences will be eagerly awaiting the results as contestants strive for the ultimate prize: 50,000 euros, their recipe published, and the chance to stand out as culinary stars.
