Ep 15. Symon vs. Nawab

In Iron Chef America season 7 episode 15, viewers are treated to a culinary battle between two top chefs, Michael Symon and Jehangir Mehta, also known as Nawab. Symon, the Iron Chef who hails from Cleveland, Ohio, is known for his bold flavors, innovative techniques, and strong commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Nawab, who grew up in Mumbai, India, but now calls New York City home, is equally skilled in the kitchen, blending traditional Indian flavors with modern techniques and contemporary ingredients.

The episode begins with host Alton Brown introducing the secret ingredient: quail. Both Symon and Nawab are clearly excited to work with this flavorful and versatile protein, and they waste no time getting to work.

Symon starts by creating a quail dish that pays tribute to his roots in the American Midwest. He dishes up a flavorful quail BLT sandwich with pickled quail eggs and habanero bacon. While this may sound like a simple dish, Symon expertly balances the flavors, making sure that each ingredient shines through. He also showcases his skill with grilling, putting a nice char on the quail that adds a smoky, savory note to the dish.

Nawab, true to his Indian heritage, takes a different approach to his quail dish. He creates a flavorful marinade of tandoori spices and yogurt, then grills the quail until it is tender and smoky. He then creates a street-food-inspired dish, serving the quail with a homemade flatbread, pickled onions, and a cooling yogurt sauce. The judges are impressed with the bold flavors and creative presentation, noting that Nawab's dish is both delicious and playful.

As the competition heats up, both chefs continue to push themselves, taking risks and creating ever-more-complex dishes. Symon cooks up a flavorful quail gumbo with andouille sausage and okra, while Nawab creates a savory quail kulfi, a type of Indian ice cream that is infused with spices and herbs.

Throughout the episode, the judges offer their opinions and observations, giving viewers a glimpse into the thought process behind each dish. They analyze the flavors, textures, and presentation of each dish, noting both the strengths and weaknesses.

In the end, however, only one chef can be crowned the winner. Will it be Symon, with his bold flavors and Midwest roots? Or will Nawab, with his inventive techniques and Indian-inspired cuisine, take home the prize?

To find out, viewers will have to tune in to this exciting episode of Iron Chef America. With its delicious quail creations, high stakes, and intense competition, this episode promises to be a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.