Ep 2. Top 22 Compete

In the second episode of MasterChef season 5, the top 22 contestants compete in their first mystery box challenge. The judges, Gordon Ramsay, Joe Bastianich, and Graham Elliot, introduce the box and reveal that the ingredients must include clams, chorizo, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potato. The contestants have 60 minutes to create a dish using these ingredients and any others from the pantry.

The contestants rush to grab their ingredients and start brainstorming ideas for their dishes. Some decide to make soups, others want to showcase the clams in a pasta dish, and some even have plans to make a dessert featuring the sweet potato.

As the clock ticks down, the contestants begin plating their dishes and presenting them to the judges. The judges taste each dish and provide feedback, both positive and negative. Some dishes stand out, such as a chorizo-stuffed clam with Brussels sprouts and a sweet potato purée, while others fall flat.

After the judging, the judges announce that the winner of the mystery box challenge will have a significant advantage in the upcoming elimination challenge. The judges deliberate and ultimately choose the contestant with the best dish, who is thrilled to have won.

Next, the contestants learn that the elimination challenge will involve cooking a dish featuring either chicken, beef, or fish. The catch is that they are not allowed to taste their protein before cooking it, as the judges want to see the contestants rely on their cooking instincts. The contestants have a limited amount of time to cook their dish, and they must also create a sauce to accompany it.

As the contestants cook, tensions rise in the kitchen. Some are struggling with their proteins, while others are having difficulty with their sauces. The judges circulate the kitchen and provide guidance, but ultimately it is up to the contestants to execute their dishes.

Once the time is up, the contestants present their dishes to the judges. The judges taste each dish and provide feedback, once again both positive and negative. Some dishes impress, such as a perfectly cooked filet mignon with a red wine sauce, while others fall short.

The judges deliberate and ultimately choose the three worst dishes, and those contestants are sent home. The remaining contestants are relieved to have made it through the first elimination challenge and begin to look ahead to the next challenge. The episode ends with a teaser for the next challenge, leaving viewers eager to see what is in store for the contestants in the upcoming episode.