Ep 12. Oktoberfest!

In Chopped season 25 episode 12, titled "Oktoberfest!," four chefs compete to create Oktoberfest-themed dishes using a variety of surprise ingredients. The episode begins with each chef introducing themselves and explaining their background and cooking style.

The first round, the appetizer round, begins and the chefs are given 20 minutes to create a dish using ingredients such as pretzels, sauerkraut, and beer. The chefs quickly get to work, some opting to make a traditional appetizer while others try to get creative. One contestant has trouble with the timing, burning their dish and resorting to throwing something together at the last minute.

The judges taste each dish and discuss their thoughts before eliminating one chef from the competition. The three remaining chefs move onto the entrée round, where they must incorporate pork chops, rutabaga, and German mustard into their dishes. The contestants become more competitive and the judges are impressed with the creativity and execution of the dishes.

After the entrée round, the judges eliminate another chef and the two remaining chefs move onto the dessert round. This round proves to be the most difficult as the chefs must create a dessert using a German chocolate cake mix, mascarpone cheese, and apple strudel. One chef struggles with the time constraint and has to rush their dish, while the other is able to create a visually stunning and delicious dessert.

The judges take time to deliberate before announcing the winner of the competition. The winning chef is awarded a prize and the episode ends with all contestants thanking the judges and reflecting on their experience on the show.