MASTERCHEF’s semi-finals had a host of familiar faces appear for a very special dinner – with one guest shocking fans.
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the BBC cooking competition, MasterChef‘s remaining competitors were put to the ultimate test by cooking for 70 guests comprised of previous winners, judges and Michelin-star chefs.
Creating a three-course meal inspired by past winner’s dishes, the eight remaining hopefuls felt the heat as they were split into groups of for the starters, two different mains and desserts.
John Torode stepped into the kitchen as executive head chef.
But one guest got fans extremely excited – India Fisher, who has been the long-standing narrator of the show’s goings on.
Speaking to the camera, she joked: “I vowed I wouldn’t do this, but I’ll read the menu out loud.
“Pan-friend scallop, grilled red mullet, smoked cauliflower pureé, straw potatoes with vinegar powder, fennel and gherkin pickle, scallop coral cracker.
“Sounds delicious!”
Fans were delighted to see her, writing on X (formerly Twitter): The voice of #MasterChef has a face!!! #MasterChefUK”
“Indias voice over vs real life is like me on the phone where it’s like Mary Poppins vs Danny Dyer,” joked another.
“Oh Wow!!! Putting a face to the voice,” said a third.
While a fourth added: “Glad the #Masterchef voiceover got invited to the semi final 20th anniversary meal. Odd to see her face. Had to rewind when I heard her reading the menu and was like hold on a minute I know that voice.”
The dinner put immense pressure on the stars, who were desperate to impress their guests as they fight their way to the final.
Thankfully, despite minor hitches including the ice-cream machine breaking down, they were able to serve up an impressive meal that earned them a standing ovation.
“What an extraordinary start to the semi-final,” John said of the event. “I’ve gotta say that I think our eight are absolutely magical.
“It was hot, it was fast, and they coped with the pressure, just.”
Gregg Wallace added: “One of the best events that I can remember, and the ambition of the food from eight amateurs, is just extraordinary.”
Unfortunately, not everyone could make it through to the next round, with two of the stars, Tom and Cliodhna, facing the door.
The semi-finals continues next episode.
