Ep 7. Seduction

In season 1, episode 7 of The Taste, titled "Seduction," the remaining seven contestants are tasked with creating dishes that are both seductive and alluring. Competitors must impress judges Nigella Lawson, Anthony Bourdain, Ludo Lefebvre, and Brian Malarkey with their unique and creative flavor combinations.

As the episode gets underway, tensions are running high as each chef strives to create a dish that truly embodies the theme of "seduction." The judges waste no time in getting down to business, tasting each dish and sharing their candid thoughts with the contestants.

First up is contestant Gregg Drusinsky, who creates a dish featuring seared scallops with a beet puree and crispy shallots. While the judges are impressed with his use of flavors, they note that the dish could benefit from a bit more balance in terms of texture and seasoning.

Next, chef Lauren Scott presents her dish, a smoked grilled cheese sandwich with fig jam and thyme. The judges are wowed by the inventive use of smoke and sweetness, with several remarking that the dish manages to be both comforting and alluring at the same time.

As the competition heats up, tensions rise as some of the contestants struggle to embody the theme of seduction in their dishes. Chef Diane DiMeo creates a dish of roasted figs with bacon and goat cheese, but the judges criticize the dish for lacking the necessary "wow" factor.

Meanwhile, chef Ninamarie Bojekian runs into trouble when she attempts to elevate a classic macaroni and cheese dish with the addition of truffle oil. Despite her best efforts, the judges note that the dish feels overly rich and heavy, rather than seductive.

As the judges continue to taste and evaluate each dish, it becomes clear that the competition is anyone's game. Chef Lee Knoeppel impresses with his innovative use of ingredients, creating a dish of spiced beef tenderloin with a pomegranate gremolata and black garlic puree that has the judges raving.

Finally, chef Sarah Schiear presents her dish, a playful take on the classic PB&J sandwich featuring peanut butter mousse, blackberry jelly, and toasted brioche. The judges are impressed with her creative use of familiar flavors, with Anthony Bourdain noting that the dish reminds him of the "unpredictability and seduction of youth."

As the judges deliberate and tally up their scores, it becomes clear that the competition is still wide open. In the end, one contestant's innovative flavor combinations and seductive presentation will earn them the coveted title of top chef.