In Episode 17, there was a Dessert Mystery Box Challenge. Deena’s dish, chocolate fondant with crème anglaise and grilled pear, impressed the panel of Guest Judges and was voted the winning pudding!

When Deena opened the Mystery Box which contained things like sweet potato, oranges, pear, risotto, coconut milk and cocoa powder he knew immediately he wanted to make something with chocolate. “I know chocolate is a winner! I have decided to do a chocolate fondant with a crème anglaise, but the problem is – there is no solid chocolate!” Luckily for him, he won a bell in the Michel Roux Challenge, so he could call any one of the Judges for advice.

He called on Chef Andrew for guidance on making a chocolate fondant with only cocoa powder at his disposal. Andrew shared a few measurements for a recipe and Deena felt more assured: “I know whatever chef Andrew tells me is definitely safe!”

Watch Deena call on Chef Andrew:


Seems the advice was spot on because the fondant came out perfectly – with the necessary flawless gooey center!

At the end of the Challenge, Deena emerged victorious and was rewarded with a picnic for him and his wife, Kathy. She handed over some inspiration: “You have the opportunity to live your dream, Deena. Give it your utmost, because I know that you are our MasterChef, no matter what. You deserve to be here, because you’ve earned it. Stay motivated and do what you do best – cooking!”

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