In the latest installment of Top Chef, season 22, episode 5 aired on April 9, captivating viewers with its Destination Canada theme that celebrates the rich tapestry of global cuisines represented in Canada. This episode marked a significant shift as the traditional Quick Fire challenge was replaced, enabling contestants to showcase their culinary skills in authentic Toronto restaurants.
Notably, Bailey, who had previously faced elimination, made a dramatic return in the Last Chance Kitchen segment. Partnered with Tristen, she took on the challenge of preparing Greek dishes at Soulas Modern Greek, pushing their creative boundaries to deliver authentic flavors that represent Greek gastronomy.
Following a tasting by the judges, their efforts were rewarded, as they emerged victorious. Renowned judge Tom Colicchio praised their innovative twist with a dish component known as Kalamata caramel:
“I thought it was really clever making that caramel. It helped with the char, but it still gave us that briny flavor as well.”
Judging the Flavor Mastery of Bailey and Tristen’s Dish
When the judges identified Bailey and Tristen, along with fellow contestants Katianna and Caesar, as their top choices, guest judge Sara prompted the pair to elaborate on their unique Kalamata caramel. Tristen explained their technique, revealing that they combined Kalamata olives with garlic, caramelized sugar, and a hint of Greek honey using a robot coupe.
Colicchio highlighted the simplicity and authenticity of their approach, which resonated with the essence of Greek culinary traditions. Tristen expressed gratitude for the feedback, emphasizing the significance of not overcomplicating dishes. Gail echoed this sentiment, acknowledging how their dish mirrored the lessons learned throughout the competition.
Before officially crowning them as the episode’s winners, Sara imparted invaluable advice:
“Do not cook for anyone else, right? You will go much farther being true to yourself than trying to manipulate it to make someone else happy.”
As the announcement of their immunity sunk in, host Kristen reminded Tristen and Bailey that they were safe from the next elimination round. The duo celebrated their victory enthusiastically, with Bailey reflecting on Sara’s impactful words:
“I thought your words were great, and I don’t think that is how I was cooking before Last Chance Kitchen, and being pushed into that made me refocus and recenter and just be cooking food that I love,”she stated.
The Culinary Journey of Creating Their Winning Dish
In the kitchen, Bailey voiced her concerns about time management, particularly when cooking the octopus, which Tristen described as pure muscle requiring lengthy preparation. While Tristen skillfully tended to the octopus, Bailey prepped the Kalamata olives for their tapenade.
Once the octopus was perfectly cooked, Tristen confidently declared it “delicious,”highlighting its tender texture:
“The octopus is nice and briny. It tastes like it just came from the sea,”he added.
With this critical component successfully handled, Tristen’s main concern was alleviated as they focused their attention on the remaining aspects of their dish.
Catch new episodes of Top Chef season 22 every Thursday at 9 PM ET on Bravo for more culinary excitement and competition!