In a dramatic semi-final episode of MasterChef Australia, contestants Elise, Justin, and Kishwar battled through a high-stakes fine dining service challenge to secure their spots in the final three. The task required each to create a three-course menu representing their personal brand, serving 23 diners including judges and guests within four hours.
Justin impressed with his lamb backstrap featuring curry spices, earning praise from judge Jock who called it "solid, seamless, delicious piece of lamb" and declared "the big fella's back." However, his cauliflower taco entree disappointed the judges, with Andy remarking it "promised the world, delivered an atlas." His brie ice-cream dessert also faced texture issues but was praised for flavour combinations.
Elise struggled with execution, particularly her parsley and cream anglaise turning to butter and parsley soup, forcing a last-minute change to pistachio semifreddo. Her venison main received faint praise due to inconsistent doneness, and judges found her dessert's flavour combination overthought, with the pistachio not coming through.
Kishwar's ambitious menu, including a goat nihari main inspired by her father's recipe, proved a winner. Her kingfish ceviche in green water was a hit, and the goat dish so impressed the judges that Jock exclaimed "Come on!" in approval.
The tension peaked as diners counted down to service, with Kishwar still prepping her entree as time ran out. Despite the pressure, all three contestants advanced, setting the stage for the finals. The final three will compete in the grand finale, with Clem Bastow liveblogging the finals on Monday and Tuesday.
