aussie masterchef

Currently, I am hooked on season 2 of MasterChef Australia. ..and am watching them over on YouTube.. :)

After following a couple of reality cooking shows from the US, I've noticed some slight differences that I really liked about MCAU..

A. More Supportive
Unlike some of the shows in the US, the judges here are more supportive, giving positive affirmation and encouragement. The judges, Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris and Matt Preston don't use sarcasm, intimidation or give harsh criticism. They always find something good and positive in the dishes to praise and commend. They give constructive suggestions and informative pointers on how to make the dishes better. It is nice to see a reality show that doesn't try to break people down just to get some ratings.

B. More Passionate
MCAU contestants are not trained chefs, they are ordinary people who love to cook. It is really heartening to see people who are so passionate about cooking that they are willing to give up their career (some are lawyers, auditors, engineers or other professionals) to pursue their culinary dream. Some are in their early twenties while some are already in their forties. The love for food knows no boundary and one is never too old to pursue one's dream. :)

C. More Camaraderie
Contestants in MCAU were much more friendlier with one another. There were almost no instances of backstabbing, bitching or badmouthing, among or between them. Everyone is genuinely supportive and helpful. They give compliments freely and encouragement sincerely. They take responsibility, instead of blaming others when things go wrong in a team challenge. They want to succeed but not at the expense of their fellow contestants which I think is very admirable and rare when compared to US reality shows...

D. Nicely Paced
At first glance, MCAU seemed way too lengthy with 84 episodes for Season 2 in 2010. However, this lengthiness actually provides viewers with an opportunity to follow the culinary growth of these contestants - a "front-row seat" in witnessing their transformation from amateur cooks to good chefs.. It is hard not to get emotionally invested and have favorite contestant(s) to root for.

E. More Educational
Every week, both George and Gary would conduct cooking classes for the contestants, showing them what they did wrong in previous cooking challenges and how certain dishes can/should be cooked. We were shown how to fillet a tuna/salmon, shuck oysters and julienning vegetables, among many other useful techniques. And every week, they will invite renown chefs to come and give a tip or two to the contestants. Dishes showcased here appear less intimidating and more achievable by home viewers, unlike those from Top Chef.

Again, all these could be due to the way the show was being edited by the show producers.. but I do believe that Aussies are generally friendlier and more down-to-earth..   :)

All in all, I am really enjoying MCAU.. once I am done with season 2, I will start on Junior MasterChef Australia.. I might not be aspiring to be a great chef, but I do love cooking.. and I definitely love to learn a few cooking tips and some great recipes.. :)