LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In the May 31 episode of 'MasterChef' Season 13, the competition intensifies with the return of Graham Elliot as a guest judge. Episode 2 showcases the auditions in full swing, as talented chefs from the Midwest engage in a fierce culinary battle to secure a coveted spot among the Top 20 contestants. With just 45 minutes on the clock, each participant must skillfully prepare a signature dish that not only showcases their unique culinary style but also impresses the discerning palates of the esteemed panel of judges, including Gordon Ramsay, Aaron Sanchez and Joe Bastianich. This all-new episode, titled 'Regional Auditions – The Midwest', promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats as aspiring chefs strive to make their mark and advance further in the competition.
However, in a surprising turn of events, fans of the show have taken to social media to express their discontent with Joe Bastianich's judging decisions. Many have called him out for consistently rejecting the majority of auditions and favoring what they perceive as the worst dishes. One particular incident involved Sarah Fry, a 32-year-old social media manager from Springfield, Missouri, who presented her creation called Springfield Cashew Chicken with Fried Rice and Brown Gravy to the judges. Despite her efforts, Joe's controversial choice to label her fish dish as one of the best has sparked a wave of criticism from fans, questioning his judgment and leaving viewers eagerly anticipating how the competition will unfold in the upcoming episodes.
Joe Bastianich says 'Yes' to Sarah
Meet Sarah Fry, a passionate 32-year-old social media manager from Springfield, Missouri, who finds unwavering support and constructive criticism from her son and husband, acting as her biggest encouragers and dedicated food critics. Eager to impress the judges, she confidently presents her culinary creation, the Springfield Cashew Chicken with Fried Rice and Brown Gravy. As the judges evaluate her dish, Graham commends the "nice" color of the chicken, although he feels it lacks a touch of visual excitement. However, he is quick to acknowledge the "awesome" flavor of the fried rice, leading him to give a resounding "yes" to Sarah's audition. Aaron, on the other hand, finds himself intrigued by the unique sauce, attempting to unravel its complexities. Despite his initial uncertainty, he joins Graham in giving Sarah a "yes." In a surprising twist, Gordon expresses his disappointment, deeming the sauce "so bland" and delivering a "no" to Sarah's dish. However, Joe astounds everyone by delivering Sarah her third and final "yes," further solidifying the Midwest's successful streak in the auditions.
'He’s always that annoying'
Fans of 'MasterChef' did not like Sarah's dish where she used butter in her fried rice. But they were most disappointed with Joe's reaction to the dish. He liked the dish despite all other judges being skeptical about it and Gordon straightaway saying "no" to it. One said, "He’s always that annoying. If he joined Gordon on Hell’s Kitchen, Joe would make Gordon look calm and rational on that show" Another added, "Joe definitely has ate a lot of mall chicken fried rice. mf was eating that like it was the antidote! " Another noted, "JOe said no to Gordon and gave Sarah the apron!"
A Redditor commented on the fried rice saying, "I wonder how Uncle Roger will feel about this rice." Another observed, "Joe said yes to something Gordon hated." Another said, "Joe said yes to something Asian that wasn’t Indian?" to which one replied, "It is very unlike Joe for sure."
Indulge your culinary senses every Wednesday at 8 pm ET/PT with the sizzling culinary showdown of 'MasterChef' Season 13. The show will premiere on Fox and Hulu the following day.
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