Ep 4. Gyro We Go Again

In the fourth episode of Chopped's sixteenth season, titled "Gyro We Go Again," four chefs are selected to compete in a culinary challenge in which they must create original and delicious gyro dishes within a limited timeframe. The program is hosted by Ted Allen, who guides viewers through the various rounds of competition.

The chefs are given a basket of ingredients at the start of the program, and they must use all of the required items in their dishes. Throughout the show, judges critique their work and eliminate one contestant after each round based on the quality and creativity of their cuisine. The last chef standing is declared the winner and takes home a cash prize.

In the first round, the chefs are given 20 minutes to use lamb shanks, caramelized onions, cotija cheese, and pistachios to create their own unique take on a classic Greek salad. The contestants must also incorporate lavash, a traditional Middle Eastern flatbread, into their creations. Contestants will be judged on the taste, presentation, and innovation of their dishes.

After the first round, the remaining three chefs advance to the next phase, where they must prepare a dish in just 30 minutes using pork belly, pickled turnips, pomegranate molasses, and feta cheese. A surprise ingredient, grape leaves, must also be used. Judges are looking for dishes that highlight the pork belly's smokiness and feature the pickled turnips on the plate.

In the final round, the two remaining chefs must create a decadent gyro sandwich in only 30 minutes using a basket of mystery items that could include anything from vegetables to fruits, grains, or meat. The contestants must also use tzatziki sauce and harissa paste in their sandwiches. The judges are looking for creative combinations of traditional gyro ingredients, including tender, flavorful meat, tangy sauces, and bold flavor profiles.

Each chef puts their own spin on the traditional gyro, showcasing their personal style and culinary expertise with inspired dishes. The competition is fierce, and the judges are serious about picking a winner. Only one of the four contestants can emerge from the competition victorious, but all of them will have shown off their innovative ideas and top-notch cooking skills during this episode of Chopped.

"Gyro We Go Again" is sure to be a crowd-pleasing episode, filled with exciting twists and turns as the chefs strive to impress the judges and stay in the game. With only one winner and three talented chefs eager to claim the prize, this episode promises to be an intense and exciting competition for viewers of all ages and backgrounds.