Ep 9. Cook Your Butt Off

In this episode of Chopped, titled "Cook Your Butt Off," four chefs are challenged to create dishes using ingredients chosen by the judges. The first round requires the chefs to use "zombie-zombie" ingredients, which are ingredients that have passed their prime but can still be used creatively. The chefs must create a dish that not only tastes good but also looks good on the plate. The judges are looking for creativity and innovation in this round, as well as a dish that is visually appealing.

In the second round, the chefs are given a choice of proteins to work with, including beef brisket, lamb shanks, salmon fillets, and duck breasts. The chefs must also use a surprise ingredient, which turns out to be potatoes. The judges are looking for a dish that is both flavorful and well-balanced, with the potatoes adding an interesting twist to the dish. The chefs must also show off their knife skills by using a mandoline to slice the potatoes thinly. One chef struggles to keep up with the others, leading to a disappointing dish that fails to impress the judges.

The final round challenges the chefs to create a dessert using Brazilian ingredients, including acai berries, mangos, and passion fruit. The chefs must also use a surprise ingredient, which turns out to be beets. The judges are looking for a dessert that is both creative and delicious, with the beets adding an unexpected twist to the dish. One chef takes a risk by using the beets in a savory dish, while another chef takes a more traditional approach by using the beets in a dessert. Ultimately, the judges must choose a winner based on the overall performance of each chef throughout the competition.

Throughout the episode, tensions run high as the chefs race against the clock to create their dishes. Some chefs are able to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions to the challenges they face, while others struggle to keep up with the competition. At the end of the day, only one chef will be crowned the winner and move on to the next round of the competition.