Ep 7. Under the Cuban Sun

Under the Cuban Sun is the seventh episode of the thirty-ninth season of the popular cooking competition show Chopped. In this episode, four chefs from different backgrounds and with different cooking styles compete against each other in three rounds of intense cooking challenges. The contestants are tasked with creating unique and delicious dishes using a basket of mystery ingredients provided by the show's producers, drawing inspiration from Cuban cuisine.

The first round, known as the appetizer round, is 20 minutes long and requires the chefs to create a dish using the four mandated ingredients found in the basket. The basket ingredients are usually unconventional, and the chefs must be creative in their approach. This round determines which three contestants will move on to the next round, while one chef is eliminated. In this episode, the chefs are presented with a basket that includes plantains, ham, mojo sauce, and pickled cabbage.

Round two, also known as the entree round, is 30 minutes long and is the stage for the remaining contestants to flex their culinary muscles. For this round, the chefs are given a new set of mystery ingredients, and must create an entree dish using those ingredients. The judges scrutinize the dishes based on taste, presentation, and creativity, with one chef being eliminated at the end of the round. In Under the Cuban Sun, the chefs are given oxtail, malanga, aji dulce peppers, and garlic as the basket ingredients.

The final round, known as the dessert round, determines the winner of the competition. The two remaining chefs are challenged to create a sweet dish using the ingredients found in the basket, which could include anything from chocolate to fruits to herbs. The chefs are given 30 minutes to complete this round, and the judges evaluate their dishes based on the same criteria as the previous rounds. The winner of this round is crowned the Chopped champion, and takes home a cash prize.

Throughout the episode, the chefs face a variety of obstacles and have to think on their feet in order to create dishes that meet all of the judges' requirements. They must balance flavors, textures, and temperatures, all while trying to incorporate the mystery ingredients into their dishes in a way that is creative and appetizing. In addition, the chefs must also deal with the pressure of cooking against their competitors, the clock, and the judges' expectations.

Under the Cuban Sun also showcases the unique flavors and ingredients used in Cuban cuisine, including plantains, malanga, and aji dulce peppers. The judges provide insight into the history and cultural significance of these ingredients, adding a layer of educational value to the show.

Overall, Under the Cuban Sun is a thrilling episode of Chopped, showcasing the culinary talents of four skilled chefs and celebrating the diverse flavors of Cuban cuisine. The competition is intense, the dishes are creative, and the judges' comments are insightful. Whether you are a longtime fan of Chopped or a newcomer to the show, this episode is sure to entertain and inspire.