Ep 3. Ultimate Champions: Amateurs

In episode 3 of Chopped's 21st season, titled "Ultimate Champions: Amateurs," four amateur chefs who have previously competed on the show return to compete once again. These chefs have each won a previous competition on the show, and they are all hoping to be named the ultimate champion.

The contestants are given a mystery basket of ingredients and must use their culinary skills to create a delicious and creative dish that incorporates all of the items in the basket. The chefs are under a tight time constraint, as they only have 30 minutes to prepare their dish.

The first round of the competition is appetizers, and the contestants are given ingredients such as quail eggs, sea urchin, and potato chips. The judges are looking for dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing, and they carefully evaluate each dish.

After the first round, one chef is eliminated and the remaining three move on to the entree round. The chefs are given ingredients such as pork belly, squid ink pasta, and cherry tomatoes, and they must use their skills to create an innovative and tasty dish.

The final round is dessert, and the contestants are given ingredients such as maple syrup, almond butter, and grapefruit. The chefs must create a dessert that is both sweet and savory and uses all of the ingredients in the basket.

Throughout the show, the judges provide commentary and critique on each dish, offering praise for innovative ideas and delicious flavors while also pointing out any flaws or mistakes. At the end of the episode, one chef is named the ultimate champion and awarded a cash prize.

"Ultimate Champions: Amateurs" showcases the impressive culinary skills of these amateur chefs and highlights the creativity and ingenuity required to succeed in the Chopped kitchen. Viewers are sure to be inspired by the delicious dishes and impressive culinary techniques on display in this exciting episode.