MasterChef, 25 April 2024, BBC One, “Episode 11”

MasterChef continues its culinary journey with the eleventh episode of its twentieth series, airing on BBC One on Thursday 25 April.

In this instalment, six new amateur cooks enter the MasterChef arena, each hoping to secure a coveted apron and continue their quest for the coveted MasterChef title.

The episode begins with the “Basic to Brilliant” challenge, where contestants must elevate everyday ingredients and put them on a pedestal. The creations reflect a range of cultural influences, from Italy to China and South Africa. John Torode and Gregg Wallace, the longstanding judges, will select the two best dishes, granting their creators the MasterChef apron and a ticket to the next round.

The remaining four contestants are not out of the competition, however. They have one more chance to impress the judges with their creativity and skill in a 45-minute challenge. Each contestant must create a tasty dish using butternut squash as the star ingredient, showcasing their ability to think on their feet.

The pressure intensifies as the four apron wearers return to the kitchen for their ultimate two-course menu challenge. They will be cooking for three special diners: former MasterChef champions Natalie Coleman (2013), Kenny Tutt (2018), and Tom Rhodes (2021). With only 75 minutes on the clock, the amateurs must craft exquisite dishes to impress these seasoned palates.

The judges, armed with insights from the diners, will deliver their verdict, selecting three contestants to continue their pursuit of the MasterChef champion title.

MasterChef airs on BBC One at 9.00 pm on Thursday 25 April 2024.