It's granular.
Salt is not balanced.
The coarse spices are burning my tongue and throat.
There's no flavour.
- It's giving a very dry and pasty texture right now. - Hmm.
If you have gravy in mind, it has to be smoother.
- Yes. - Actually, out of all the dishes I've seen
this is one of the top ones I'm looking forward to.
- Yes, it's nice. - Thank you, sir.
If our dish ever becomes even slightly bitter
- then, to balance it... - Sourness.
we add something sour.
That saves effort and the dish.
Thank you, Chef.
- The purple cauliflower rice you made yesterday? - Yes, Chef.
It was mind-blowing.
- Thank you. - But, expectations are higher today.
- Yes, Chef. - Because, what you're cooking today
is your favourite dish.
It's connected to your memories.
- Yes, Chef. - Right?
So, your memories are faltering, recollect them.
Chef, will it curdle if I add lemon to this?
Absolutely not. But, the point of adding lemon
makes a difference. Lemon is something...
which should be added after cooking is done.
I'll try to add it in the end, Chef.
I am very nervous and tense today.
Firstly, it's tasting bitter.
So, I lost my confidence in the start.
Then, sir said that...
the dish I made yesterday was very good.
So, today's dish has to be even better.
So, his expectations are higher.
He raised my bar higher.
He expects something great from me now.
- Add some salt, it's fine. - Nikki, what are you cooking?
Mr. Digambar, what are you two cooking?
We are making a deconstructed vada pav.
But, why vada pav?
Whose favourite dish is this?
Vada pav is our favourite dish.
We spent our whole childhood eating vada pav.
- Was it your brother's favourite? - It was.
- Brother's favourite? - Yes.
I'm going to make excellent food, I don't want to cry.
[somber music playing]
Brother was a scholar.
Dad spent all his money on Brother's career.
To make him an engineer, as he was good at studies.
So, he always got a lot of money.
But, he knew that I never had money
nor did I ever get pocket money.
So, he...
started eating vada pav even though he had ample money.
So that, I wouldn't ask for the expensive food that he could eat.
So, with him, vada pav became my favourite too.
[sentimental song playing]
So, he always did everything with the thought that
I don't get similar privileges.
So, he never took advantage of that privilege either.
- Nikki should not feel bad that... - Exactly.
- he had money and Nikki did not get any. - Yes, exactly.
You didn't give her any privileges.
But, do you feel proud today that she's here?
- That she's doing so well? - I'm very proud.
- She's become the pillar of the family now. - Exactly.
Nikki, how are you representing vada pav in a modern way?
I've made a crust bread.
We'll fill it with a foam.
- The vada in vada pav? - Yes?
I'm making it in foam form.
That sounds like French vada pav.
How are you feeling? Do you feel proud
- that she's doing all this? - He can't believe it.
- Yes? - He's asking me...
where the actual vada is if I've boiled the potatoes.
- He can't see the vada. - I asked if she forgot to make it.
He couldn't see it.
Does she cook at home? [Nikki's dad chuckling]
- She cooks at home. - She does?
How many types of thecha did she make?
- Her thecha was always innovative. - See!
- Innovative thecha. - She always experimented with it.
If we get the time...
we are thinking of making caviar out of thecha.
- But, only if we have time. - Don't make thecha caviar.
[laughing]
Please spare me the thecha!
- I've had enough of thecha. - She's obsessed with it.
Mr. Digambar, I think...
you should use this opportunity
of cooking together to the maximum. She loves you very much.
Okay. Yes, sir.
[tense music playing]
Do you smell something in this?
What are you making?
It's rum caramel.
Rum caramel? This is going to be...
Simran, did you ever imagine he would make rum caramel here?
Absolutely not.
I have only heard him talking about potatoes.
Simran, have you guys ever played Holi together?
Yes, we have, but, she's very scared of Holi.
And, I love Holi.
The way I play Holi, the colour doesn't wear off for two days.
Akanksha loves Holi too.
She always has more colour on her than me.
So, we love Holi as a couple.
But, I think, play Holi with her this time.
I won't spare her this time, ma'am.
Mostly, 70-80% of our work is done.
- What is your dish today? - Chef, today...
- we are making pinni with gum. - It's pinni...
And, thandai flavoured rabdi.
Oh! He's become a dessert expert.
- Yes, exactly. - Did you expect it?
- Did you ever imagine that? - No.
- I'd never imagined that. - It's a different version of gujiya.
And, another version will be done soon.
We'll use whichever looks better.
There will be a block of
panjiri and gum laddoos below, rabri on top
with a cream cheese frosting piped on it.
Do you hear that? He said cannoli...
frosting, piping, cream cheese!
- Those words didn't exist... - He used them in one sentence.
- Cannoli. - Exactly, yes.
Today's Holi, so, I'm going to have a lot of fun.
And, I'm not under any threat today.
- All the best. - Thank you, ma'am.
Thank you.
[dynamic music playing]
Teja, will mom do all the work?
- No! - What's cooking?
I'm making thandai kulfi.
And, I'll make caviar with that.
- With fennel and betel leaves. - Look at that.
Mom doesn't even need to look.
[laughter]
Right? I think...
- Look at mom's chopping speed. - Just look at her.
She's not even looking at it.
I should tell my mom to watch.
You are a chef's mom. People will expect this of you.
She's going to be a chef's mom too.
- Yes. - Yes, correct.
[laughter]
- What do you do? - Me?
I am a homemaker right now.
- Now, she's a homemaker. - Before that?
Before that...
she's done a lot of odd jobs.
Like, after finishing college...
- she was working... - Really!
But then, when we...
went through some difficult times
she went door-to-door and sold policies.
Your story may sound very...
dramatic but the family's struggle to save their house was real.
I'll tell you something even more dramatic.
I was sixteen then...
and, I knew that I could get a learner's license at seventeen
and, we didn't have a car.
I pestered Mom that I wanted a car.
So, these are the two bangles...
that Mom mortgaged.
- You just gave her a car at 17? - Yes, second-hand.
Did you buy your mom a new car?
Yes. Mom doesn't drive.
But, our latest car is a brand new one.
But, of course, it's...
a family car meant for mom and dad.
Tejasswi, in fact, both my kids always supported me.
They supported me a lot.
I always complained about the lack of money.
They reassured me that they would change things.
She has always been a big support for me.
I have sold onions.
I used to carry the sacks.
So, that's where she learned to be independent
- and do her own work? - Yes. When I went to work...
she became Pratik's mom.
Really? What do you think? Will she go to the...
She's already the winner.
[laughter]
Mom has said it!
- Okay, we are looking forward to eating this. - Yes.
This is the moment when you can experiment
with this dish as much as you like.
- There is nothing to lose. Okay? - Yes, correct.
- I'm doing that. - All the best. Look forward to your kulfi.
Yes, Chef.
Strong woman raising strong daughter.
Oh! Thank you.
I prepared the curd for the dahi bhalle.
Meanwhile, mom was frying the dough balls.
Don't bother mom.
- What? - Don't bother her.
- Listen. - Don't trouble her.
Mom thinks this is Holi for real.
She thought everyone here will eat. She cooked so much.
- I said, they eat so little. - Whom did you cook for, aunt?
- Mom, we don't have to make so much. - All that is for whom?
- It's just amazing today. - Amazing, I know.
Look at this...
[sentimental music playing]
- It's a full and happy kitchen. - Exactly.
[sentimental vocalising]
Zorawar, what do you think, now that you saw them?
You know, from what I saw...
their support structure is working quite well.
They are in their comfort zone.
You know, they trust those people.
They feel that their supporting sous-chefs
will help them to make fantastic dishes.
I think, I'm impressed with everybody here, so far.
But, if we talk about the usage of the sous-chefs
Faisu is using Adnan the most intelligently.
He's doing the finishing but making Adnan do all the work.
The distribution of work is best at Faisu's table.
And, how's the coordination between Nikki and her dad?
Very good. I think, they are bonding after several years.
Yes, it's coming out. Keep doing that, dad.
Oh!
When he came here, I felt like his eyes were shining with pride
for his daughter, and, I think...
if there's any sous-chef who will use all his might today...
of course, they all will...
but, her dad is going to make some extra effort.
If I talk about the dishes, as a chef...
I think that the strongest concept
of the dish is by Rajiv.
And, right now, the weakest dish according to me
due to its simplicity belongs to Archana.
As you can see, Rajiv is not
letting his sister do anything. He has taken over.
He's an alpha. It's good to be an alpha sometimes, but
I think, in a competition
it can give you an edge, but also...
it can alienate you from others too.
Celebrity cooks, one hour is over.
What?
Only 30 minutes remain.
Hurry up! Chop chop!
Only 30 minutes remain. I'm feeling very stressed.
How will everything get done? I keep making the bowl.
It just isn't happening. My bowl is burned.
I don't know how to make it.
Both of us keep testing the gravy.
We keep tasting it. Come what may, we have to give it our best.
Adnan reduced the bitterness
and improved it. It was now time for me to make the bread.
I quickly took my dough
- and rolled it out. - Celebrity cooks.
Stop cooking!
Rajiv!
- It is time! - It is time!
[mock evil laughter]
Time to use your whistle.
[blowing whistle]
First, tell us, who do you want to use it on?
I want to use it on Archana.
Oh god! I need mom right now.
And, he's blown the whistle for me.
I don't know what's happening!
Come on, Rajiv, please!
- Listen to me. I'll tell you why. - Not now, Rajiv.
Usha Tai is like a mom to me.
She's the MasterChef mom and her son is here too.
My brother is here, and, you are a friend.
But, you can trouble your brother too.
Aren't I your friend?
You are so strong, Archana. The way you cooked yesterday!
She blew the whistle for me last time
and, she didn't take me in the fruit group.
So, I will blow the whistle for Archana today.
- Rajiv, you have blown the whistle for Archana. - Yes.
- So, for ten whole minutes... - Yes?
[tense music playing]
Archana's mom will leave Archana
and help you.
Yes!
Come here for 10 minutes, aunt!
- Aunt will help him? Wow! - Come, come!
Come to me for 10 minutes. Hi, aunt!
- Come, come. A mother's touch. - Let mom knead...
Only 10 minutes, aunt. It's okay.
- Go on. - 10 minutes. You're a great cook.
Look, aunt.
Rajiv blew the whistle and Mom has gone there.
And, I had to make this basket.
Only Mom knew how to make it.
So, I'm wondering how
to make this now. I'm very worried.
- How will I do this? - Rajiv.
Your time starts now!
I'm like a son to you, right?
Your daughter is so strong. Don't worry at all.
- Aunt, will you make gujiya for me? - Yes.
Okay. Give me the dough. Give the dough to aunt.
Archana, are you alright, sis?
- See how sweet your mom is. - I'm very upset.
Mom had to fry this.
[Rajiv laughing]
- This is sticking here. It needs a rolling board. - Right?
You've rolled it very thin.
It should be thicker. That's why it's not crisp.
- Do you have more flour? - Yes, we do.
- Shall I make it denser? - Yes, do it.
You are so sweet, aunt!
Make this first.
- Awesome, aunt. - Are you making gujiya, mom?
Yes, aunt is making gujiya.
Gujiya is mom's favourite!
Mom always makes gujiya!
Your mom is cooking for me. She's so sweet.
[screaming] Mom!
Mom, he's in the black apron!
Never mind. A mother cooked for her son today.
- Not a big deal. - Okay, make it.
Didn't you bring the mould?
- No, it's a different kind of mould. - I had one at home.
Hey! This is MasterChef. You cannot bring stuff from home.
Mom is helping him
because, Mom is very good at making gujiya.
And, I'm wearing the black apron today.
Rajiv is my competition too.
And, Mom is helping him.
I can't even tell Mom to spoil it
because, I wouldn't want...
Mom to spoil someone's food.
So, let her do it.
Aunt, you've already made it?
Are you serious?
- I'll quickly make them. - Yes, quickly make them.
I am so glad that I have your expertise with me today.
- But, Rajiv, I have a concern. - What?
Whenever you cook with others, you mess things up.
There are three people at your counter now.
A mother and a sister.
I am absolutely fine today, sir.
- Move! Your mom is mine. - Mom!
Why not?
You've made such nice gujiya.
- She's made excellent gujiya. - Without a machine too!
Without a machine, see.
That's a mother!
My sister and I have never made it.
You needed Mom. I gave you...
- Rajiv. - half my mom.
- Your time is up. - Thank you, aunt.
- Thank you so much. - Send Archana's mom back to her.
Please come, Mom.
Done? Taste the salt.
- It's very thick, dad. - No.
It was very thick, dad.
Don't add so much water.
- It will get thick. - I know how it's done.
- It doesn't need so much water. - Look.
Fry it now.
- See, it's not ready. Taste it first. - Turn it over.
It's very hard, dad. It needs more water.
- Woah! - Hey!
Faisu!
MasterChef! Amazing.
- Archana, what's this? - Sir, that basket stuck to it.
I'm making a different... here's the tart.
Firstly, Archana...
you think this basket is stuck, it's not stuck.
- So, what shall I do? - Okay?
Once it cools down, it will harden.
Once it hardens, there are chances that it will extract.
Secondly, this!
- These thick ones... - Yes?
If you can remove this and fry it again
by splashing oil on it
the basket will shrink.
It will shrink.
Once it shrinks, it will cool down and come out.
- But... - Hmm?
- have a plan B ready. - I have a plan B, sir.
[tense music playing]
Oh my god!
- You made this? - Yes.
- Hasn't it browned nicely? - Huh?
It's nice and red.
- You made this? - I swear.
Isn't it nice?
You've performed beyond expectations.
Oh god!
What is happening?
I added some lemon and salt to this.
If you slightly cook and soften it...
That?
I'll do it.
[tense music playing]
- Rajiv. - Yes, Chef?
How does it go?
The gujiya is ready. I'm just doing this, Chef.
- How many layers remain? - 4-5 layers.
This colour, this will follow, then strawberry.
I'll do the same again. Then comes pineapple.
- That will form layers of colour. - This is a black apron.
- This needs to be your best dish. - I know.
Yes, it's my best dish, for this challenge.
Yes, Chef! Yes!
[tense music playing]
My god, Faisu!
There are too many things here. What are you making?
Why are you so nervous?
This is making me nervous.
How many times has life given you a black apron?
- Four times. - Forget about the MasterChef kitchen.
How many times has life put you in such situations?
Several times. I don't even remember.
So, why are you afraid this time?
I don't know, sir. I'm very nervous today.
I don't want to leave, Chef.
But, son, till your mind is troubled
it will reflect on your plate. Then, you will definitely leave.
Firstly...
- Adnan is your friend. - Yes, Chef.
- You can make better use of him. - Yes, Chef.
If nothing else, you can ask him to clean up while you are cooking.
If the counter is clean, your mind will remain sharp.
- Yes, Chef. - Right?
In this case, not only are you confused
you're confusing him too.
And, amidst all this
if your plate reflects this confusion...
Yes. I'll clean up a little and begin the presentation, Chef.
- Okay? - Yes, Chef. Thank you.
I brought my focus back.
I brought my thought process back on track.
Then, I began cooking again.
If it's not cooked...
I can take a look at the mixture and say
- It needs more agar? - that it needs more agar.
Secondly, whenever you add agar
the best way to test it is...
on any chilled surface...
pour your mixture.
If that mixture does not stick to the chilled surface
then, it needs more agar.
If you want to fix it
your mixture needs at least
- 2 more grams of agar. Yes. - Two grams?
Okay.
Simran, if I told you two months ago
- that Gaurav made this plate, would you believe me? - No.
- Absolutely not. - I wouldn't believe it myself.
Even if you told me I made it, I wouldn't believe it.
But, the fact is, he's extremely hard-working.
And, I think, I learned that from him.
[chuckling]
To be a little hard working in life.
- Hard work that doesn't look hard is the best. - Yes.
If it is seen, it looks like arrogance.
Yes.
- And, he has the passion too. - Yes.
And, he does it happily.
He makes everyone laugh and does it.
Gaurav, whenever we...
make a berry or fruit puree
- like this sauce that you have made - Yes?
at that time...
remove some solid pieces of fruit from it.
- Okay. - Because, the chunky pieces
of cooked fruit can add a good element to your dish.
If a few cooked raspberries were placed here and there
they would add a texture, a mouth-feel.
- They would add a layering. - Okay.
It would save you effort in elevating the dish.
- If you ever make a puree, keep some chunky elements. - Sure.
Okay, Chef. Thank you.
Celebrity cooks!
Final ten minutes!
[dramatic music playing]
Mom, is this thickness fine?
Yes.
I hope this works! God, save me!
Please work just this time! I'll never cook this again.
I hope this works!
I hope I don't lose face in front of mom.
[squealing in delight]
Oh! Hey! I don't need you to rise!
Not like a poori! Mom, don't laugh.
I'm wearing the black apron!
Do you know what that means?
I am just exhausted by the time it's time for plating.
I can cook anything that is needed.
I can prepare all kinds of dishes.
But, this MasterChef level plating is too tough for me.
However hard I may try, I'm not able to do it.
How shall I do it?
Mom! It's done.
Directly put it in.
- I think, it will be fine. - It will be fine.
Thank god!
[tense music playing]
What's happening, Deepa?
- He's very stressed. - Wow! He did it.
It's matching your dress.
I know. [Rajiv chuckling]
Don't we look alike, aunt?
[laughter]
- Aunt?! - Huh?
- He called me aunt? - Sorry.
Sorry, Farah ma'am.
- You're done for! - I'm sorry.
- Take him back to London. - Sorry.
Deepa, your brother's wearing the black apron today.
- What are the chances? - I'm hopeful. He worked very hard.
- I scolded him a lot. - Yes?
- You scolded him or he scolded you? - He scolded me.
- Huh? - No, ma'am.
- Do I ever scold anyone? Why? - Of course.
First ask her what she works as.
- What do you work as? - A lawyer.
- Lawyer? - Ask her what kind.
- What? Criminal lawyer? - Criminal lawyer.
She defends criminals.
That's why, he's so naughty. His sister can save him.
[laughter]
She may look quiet, but, she's very stern.
- But, you must be hard to handle. - I'm very easy to handle.
We... after my dad's death...
our family became very close.
So, when mom used to go to work or to the hospital
she became a second mom for me.
- So, are you proud now that he's doing this? - Yes, so proud!
Did you think that he'll survive this long?
- No. Not at all. - Excuse me?
Because, this is a totally different level.
Home food is different.
But, has he ever cooked this kind of food at home?
No. And, he's so creative, look.
- My brother works very hard. - He is working hard.
Thank you, Aunty.
[laughter]
Thank you, Aunty.
[laughter]
Thank you, Aunty. I mean...
Why am I calling you Aunty?
- He's doomed. He's getting eliminated today. - Sorry. No.
- I call Archana's mom Aunt... - You're getting eliminated today.
Sorry, Farah Ma'am. Why do I keep calling her Aunty?
I called her Aunty.
[music]
Celebrity cooks, last one minute.
[music]
I feel hopeful. My sister is here with me today. Positive...
She's helped me immensely with this dish.
Her touch made a difference. She's like a mother to me.
When a mother's touch is involved
the dish always turns out well.
[music]
When you've come this far in the competition
you don't want to walk away from this position.
Elimination makes the pressure even greater.
Because all four of us have been performing exceptionally well.
We've all been creating outstanding dishes.
So, somewhere
in the back of my mind, there's this thought
what if I'm the one who has to leave today?
Ten.
[music]
- Nine. - Eight.
[music]
Seven.
Six.
- Five. - Four.
Three.
Two.
- One. - One. Stop.
[music]
Time's up! Step back.
Whose stardom will stand the test.
[music]
Today's challenge was
to capture your cherished Holi memories with your family
on a plate by crafting a dish
that embodies the essence of Holi and celebrates your memories.
- And now, it's time for the tasting. - Yeah.
And thank you, White Aprons.
You didn't have to cook today
but we appreciate it.
So, you have nothing to fear when it comes to elimination.
Now, bring your dishes over to us.
[music]
- So, Nikki and Nikki's dad. - Yeah.
What have you both prepared?
We've made a deconstructed 'Vada Pav'
accompanied by a garlic chutney.
There's also a unique garlic dust.
And a sauce made of tamarind, dates, and jaggery.
Gaurav, what have you made?
Simran and I have collaborated to create
an open 'Gujiya' filled with 'Thandai Rabdi'.
And a date-based 'Halwa'.
Beneath it, there's 'Panjiri' forming the base.
With a strawberry sauce
and cream frosting.
And Teja, what have you and your mom prepared?
My mum and I have made 'Thandai Kulfi'
paired with a strawberry-pepper sauce.
There's also a 'Paan' caviar
a fennel crisp
- Goodness me. - And roasted nuts.
[music]
Nikki and Nikki's father,
my mind is blown.
[excitedly screaming]
- I adore it. - Thank you.
Absolutely love it. Well done, Dad.
- Thank you very much, ma'am. - Gaurav.
[music]
This is a dish I could eat time and again.
Not just in terms of presentation, but
even in terms of taste
I can easily picture this in any of my restaurants.
- Oh, goodness. - Thank you. Thank you so much.
Thank you.
[music]
Before I comment on this
I must ask you, when is the wedding?
This year, for sure.
- This year? - This year?
Oh, congratulations!
- Oh ho, Teju, you didn't even tell us! - What? There's nothing like that.
Let's have a round of applause for this.
The boy has been named, hasn't he?
- Yes. - Yes.
So, the boy has been named Karan.
- Yes. - It's done.
[music]
Look, one person is definitely going to be unhappy.
- Who? - Chef Vikas.
[music]
Our dear Vikku. He left us, and before we knew it, Teja got married.
- [music] - Just like that.
- Shall we talk about the tasting now? - Yes, ma'am.
Okay, so Teja, talking about your dish.
The concept of the dish is better than its execution.
- Okay. - But overall, it's still a very good dish.
All the elements are present
and the thought behind it is evident.
You have given a 'Kulfi' that is extremely rich in dairy.
Alongside that, you've added a tangy coulis
to bring a sense of balance.
There's a trail of betel nut.
Since you mentioned Holi
you incorporated elements like 'Thandai' and 'Paan'
searching for a bold expression in your dessert, in your 'Kulfi'.
I like that.
Overall
- For me, it's a 7.5 out of 10. - Oh, not bad.
Tell me, how do you feel about Teja's journey?
Whatever Tejasswi does, she pours her heart into it.
Give her anything
and she will ensure a great outcome.
So, I have complete confidence that this time as well...
A mother like her is a blessing.
- Wow. - Wow.
Absolutely brilliant.
[music]
Now, let me remind you
the real tasting for the Black Apron Challenge begins now.
All the best to all of you. Let's do this.
So, we have the bikers' squad from Rizvi College.
Faisu and Adnan, please bring your dish forward.
- Go, Faisu! - Adnan, pick up that dish.
- All the best. - Be careful.
All the best, Faisu.
[music]
Now, tell us, what have you prepared?
Adnan and I have made 'Parai Butter Naan Gosht'.
'Parai'?
- 'Parai'. 'Parai' is a type of earthenware.. - Bowl.
- A bowl. - Oh, I see.
That's what 'Naan Gosht' is served in.
I drew inspiration for this from Uttar Pradesh.
So, whenever we celebrate Holi back home
or any festival, or even a wedding
people there serve 'Naan Gosht'
- in earthenware. - Wow.
- It smells absolutely divine. - Thank you, ma'am.
- I don't... - I can't say about the taste,
- but the aroma is simply exquisite. - My goodness.
Honestly, I can't wait, guys.
But, Zorawar, we must discuss the presentation.
- You'll have to wait. - It's incredibly hard to hold back right now.
[laughter]
Thank you, Chef.
Your presentation of the curry is truly intriguing.
You've placed some mashed potatoes underneath
to elevate the meat, making it more visible.
And the way you've presented the salad is quite unique.
It's an excellent way to plate a curry.
And the thought behind it is remarkable.
Very well done on the presentation.
- Thank you, Chef. - So difficult.
Thank you, Chef.
[music]
The moment Chef tasted it and widened his eyes
I thought, "Oh no, I'm done for."
The seasoning must be off.
It really feels like there's trouble ahead today.
I'm from Lucknow.
I've honed my skills in the streets of Lucknow,
enduring scoldings from the seasoned masters.
'Korma', 'Khaliya',
and 'Nihari' run in my veins.
And impressing me with curry or 'korma' is no easy feat.
[music]
- You've impressed me. - Thank you, Chef.
That's the spirit!
The intricacy of the flavours
the balance of smokiness
the tenderness of the meat
the silkiness of the curry
and the overall refinement of the dish.
If you were to open a place serving just this and 'Naan'.
[chuckle]
You'd make millions. Millions!
Thank you, Chef. I'm truly grateful.
Finally. At long last.
I've been longing to hear this
that they truly relished the dish.
At the start, when I visited your station
both the texture and balance were off.
But you took that feedback positively
and you went ahead and strained the gravy.
The layer of fat you've added has formed beautifully.
The 'Dhongar' you gave it
is the highlight.
Overall, the balance that was missing
is now the most prominent aspect
of this dish.
- Thank you, Chef. - But...
If the spice combination
and balance is according to your understanding
then kudos for your knowledge of spices.
- Wow! - [applause]
Faisu!
Faisu Korma Centre!
Yes, Faisu Korma Centre!
[applause]
Sir, I want to say something.
When you came to my counter
and said that the gravy
we made was slightly bitter
since then, I've felt like my breath is stuck.
Hearing that, I haven't been able to breathe properly.
Sir, I just need a hug from you
so I can breathe again.
- Thank you, sir. - Cheer up!
Thank you so much, sir.
[sombre music]
- Thank you, Chef. - God bless you.
Faisu, I know it's too early to say
but I don't think you're going home today.
Thank you, Chef.
After making this dish, I really don't think you're going home.
Thank you so much, ma'am.
I'm happy to have made this dish because it's my mom's recipe.
And I feel incredibly proud
that my mom taught me something, and I'm recreating it here.
- Ms. Usha, please bring your dish. - Yes, sir.
[cheerful music]
[cheerful claps]
Today, I have made a 'Puranpoli Tart'
with 'Berry Compote and Paneel Caramel.'
It's a very neat, clean, and well-presented dish, Ms. Usha.
This is your most thoughtful and refined presentation so far.
Thank you. [everyone clapping]
[intense music]
Ms. Usha, if I talk about the concept
this is probably my favourite dish so far.
From a concept perspective.
When you mentioned tart to me and Chef Ranveer..
Yes, T-A-R-T...
it's very thin and crisp.
I was initially worried it might turn out a bit thick, but it's perfect.
And talking about the combination
the 'Puranpoli' and the 'Compote' you made
the balance is fantastic.
[clapping]
Ms. Usha, when I came to your table, I told you that
I love my wife's 'Puranpoli' the most.
But, Pallavi Suresh Jadhav!
Today, I have had a better 'Puranpoli' than yours.
I love you, but...
It was too good. Absolutely amazing.
[cheerful claps]
This dish is entirely like you.
Partly sweet, partly tangy.
But perfectly balanced.
But come here now.
Give me your hand.
[cheerful claps]
All three of them tasted it and liked it.
I'm happy.
My son is happy too.
Archana and Archana's mom, come for the presentation.
[music]
Actually, at our place, when we have leftover rotis at night
we mix them with jaggery in the morning and eat it like 'Churma'.
So, I shaped the tart like a 'Tikda'.
[music]
What have you made?
Sir, I made 'Tikda Dahi Vada'.
- 'Tikda Dahi Vada'? - Yes.
Tell me, why did you keep a lemon here?
Ma'am, it's extra. I added a little to the dish already.
Should we add it or not?
Don't add it, sir.
Archana, when you said 'Tikda Dahi Vada'
the concept of the tart at the bottom
made sense just because of how you described it.
Usually, chaat presentations end up being a bit confusing.
There are often a lot of spices and chutneys on top.
It creates a sense of abstractness, lacking clarity.
But at the end, there should always be one distinct element
whether it's coriander or something else
- that catches the eye. - Sir, the mint went to the bottom.
Whatever it is.
That's what I feel is missing here
something to cover up the confusion.
Archana, considering it's the 7th week
do you think the presentation is fine?
Ma'am, my only option was to make 'Dahi Vada'.
'Dahi Vada' was fine, but looking at the plate
it feels like a Holi party presentation.
This is a black apron challenge, someone will be eliminated
and it looks like
something quickly thrown together for unexpected guests at home.
Now only the taste can save you.
[intense music]
I'm thinking to myself, what more could I have done with the plating?
This is my best plating. I can't plate it any better, pal.
Who whisked the lentils?
- Who ground them? - I did.
- Who fried them? - Mom did.
Ms. Sunita, how are you?
- I'm fine. - You made it really well.
- Thank you. - They turned out amazing.
[cheerful clapping]
What a dish!
- Too good! You deserve this. - It's amazing.
Today, I'm going to kiss your mom's hand.
It's an amazing dish.
Any guesses, what's going to happen? Who will go?
This is what you call a banging plate.
- It's a smashing plate. - Thank you.
The dish is fabulous in terms of taste.
- It's full of flavour. - It's as soft as cotton.
And the spice mix you made on top...
Archana, who made the 'Chaat Masala'?
She made it herself.
Mom will still give credit to her daughter.
Moms are moms!
- I made it too... - Moms will always be moms!
It's amazing. I need that chaat masala recipe.
Sure.
If the presentation had exuded confidence
this dish could have been outstanding today.
[music]
This is a dish meant for sharing.
[cheerful clapping]
Alright, we've reached the last tasting of the day, Rajiv and Deepa!
[music]
What have you made, Rajiv?
I have made a 'Gujiya Trifle.'
The deconstructed filling of a 'Gujiya' has three flavours.
There's pineapple, raspberry, and strawberry, along with 'Gujiya'.
It's a good festive presentation, Rajiv.
It does look festive.
The flowers, the symmetry in the presentation...
Maybe even the choice of glass
or choice of the carrier
could have been something different.
Because at the end of the day
it's like a glass standing in the middle of a plate.
But it is a festive representation.
Spot on. I love how you placed the 'Gujiya'
on top of the glass like a cocktail garnish.
- Like a lemon wedge. - Yes, like a lemon wedge.
- It's very interesting, very nice. - Thank you, Chef.
It's festive, no doubt, and colourful.
You have shown the Holi colours you wanted to represent.
But I feel like maybe you put in too much effort
or went a bit overboard with the presentation.
Perhaps it wasn't really necessary
to go this far.
Sometimes, as they say, fusion turns into confusion.
Here, my eyes are going to ten different things.
- Alright. - Let's taste.
[intense music]
Rajiv.
I had already said that fusion shouldn't turn into confusion.
And to be very honest...
That's not the case here.
- Woah, thank God! - Oh, thank you so much.
The flavours are good.
The deconstruction works well.
You have genuinely layered the elements properly.
The texture of the mousse is good, it's really nice.
Overall, if my eyes were closed or I was blindfolded
and someone fed me with a spoon
I would feel like I'm eating 'Gujiya.'
- Thank you so much. - So it is actually very good.
- Thank you so much. - Very, very, very good.
Thank you so much.
Zorawar made a spot-on point.
The beauty of this dessert is
that it captures the textures of 'Gujiya'
the flavours of 'Gujiya, ' and the emotion of 'Gujiya'
perfectly.
- Thank you so much. - For me, it's Holi in a glass.
And I'm from Lucknow.
For us, Holi means 'Gujiya.'
- Yes. - Right!
If you can recreate the emotion of 'Gujiya'
in a glass for someone from Lucknow
that means you must have done something right.
- Thank you so much, Chef. - Well done.
[cheerful claps]
Everyone loved my dish.
I'm very happy that they liked it.
I hope I won't be going home today. Facing my sister
would be really awkward and embarrassing.
[cheerful claps]
Time for results.
Oh no!
It feels very scary.
When it is time for results
it feels very scary.
I was a little bit relaxed in the back of my head.
Maybe I won't leave the kitchen if my dish is good.
I don't want to send anyone away. They don't want to leave.
But the show must go on.
[tense music playing]
Elimination is happening in front of our families.
It was very tough for me.
I was feeling upset about Usha Tai.
I would be hurt if she had to leave.
If Rajiv has to leave, I would miss my friend.
I had quite a decent journey with Archana, too.
I don't want anyone to get eliminated.
Celebrity cooks.
They have made a good dish.
But their dish or presentation fell short
while compared to other dishes.
We have something to say to those.
We only have
two words to say.
[tense music playing]
No elimination.
[clapping]
- Happy Holi. - Happy Holi.
[clapping]
I was so happy. There was no elimination.
My sister was present there. I didn't want to leave with her.
Everyone was safe for that week.
Thank you, judges. Thank you for showing us love.
Listen, we are a family.
We have a small token of gift on the occasion of Holi.
Come on, everyone.
[happy music playing]
[clapping]
I told you something at the beginning of the episode.
The dish that I like the most
I will add it to my restaurant's Holi Menu with your name on it.
To be honest, it is a very tough decision.
All the four dishes were delicious.
According to me, there is one dish
that was tingling on my taste buds for so long.
It was stored in my memories.
That dish is...
[clock ticking]
Faisu!
[clapping]
Thank you, chef. Thank you.
Across India, at every Farzi caf*...
Oh!
Well done!
I will present this dish on Holi in your name.
I don't think it will be taken off the menu as well.
Oh my god!
- It will be Faisu's 'Naan Gosht'. - Faisu's 'Naan Gosht'.
- Oh! - Well done!
It will be called nothing else.
Add half of his name as well.
- It works. It works. - Actually...
Let's do one thing.
I will tell you the name of this dish.
07 'Naan Gosht'.
- It's the name of our group, sir. - Done.
I am seriously telling you guys. The dish that you made today
will forever remain in my memory.
Well done, guys.
- Well done. - Thank you, chef. Thank you.
Congratulations to you.
[clapping]
Okay. Celebrity cooks.
You are in this position today.
It isn't just you.
Your loved one's blessings have made it happen.
Their hard work and good wishes worked.
Their love was a part of it.