Ep 8. Military Vets

In season 26 episode 8 of the popular cooking competition show Chopped, military veterans take center stage as they compete in a special edition of the show. The episode begins with four veterans stepping into the Chopped kitchen, each with their own unique background and cooking style. The competing chefs include a former Army sergeant, a Marine Corps veteran, an Air Force veteran, and a Navy veteran.

The first round begins with a mystery basket that includes ingredients such as corned beef hash, pickled pig's feet, and lavender. The chefs have just 20 minutes to create an appetizer that showcases all of the ingredients while also impressing the judges. As they work quickly, the chefs share stories of their military experiences and how they've used cooking to heal and connect with others.

As the judges taste each dish, they are impressed with the creativity and skill on display. However, one chef's dish falls short in both presentation and flavor, leading to their elimination from the competition.

In round two, the remaining three chefs must use ingredients such as MRE (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) crackers, canned chicken, and powdered eggs to create a delicious entree dish in just 30 minutes. The chefs work frantically, trying to think outside the box and create something truly unique. One chef struggles with the textures of the canned chicken, while another incorporates the MRE crackers into a savory crust for their dish.

The judges once again taste each dish and are wowed by the level of creativity on display. However, one chef's dish misses the mark, and they are sent home.

Finally, in the dessert round, the remaining two chefs must use a mystery basket of ingredients that includes freeze-dried strawberries, canned peaches, and tofu. The chefs are given just 30 minutes to create a dessert that incorporates all of the ingredients and showcases their skills as a pastry chef. As they work, tensions run high, with both chefs determined to come out on top.

When time runs out, the judges taste each dish and are equally impressed with the results. However, one chef's dish just edges out the other, and they are declared the winner of the competition. The episode ends with the judges and the winning veteran chef reflecting on the unique challenges faced by those who have served in the military, and how cooking and food can bring people together and help heal wounds both physical and emotional.