The 20 remaining kiddie cooks will attempt to wow the judges with superb seafood dishes in the upcoming episode of the FOX reality series "MasterChef Junior."
In "One Small Step," TV Guide reports that to avoid elimination, the remaining contestants will battle it out in a seafood test. But before that, they have to face the week's Mystery Box Challenge. Whoever wins in this round will get a huge advantage coming into the next task. What is more, they have to do it in front of NASA astronaut Tracy Caldwell Dyson. Who will bulk under the pressure?
Last week was all about keeping it together, as the cooks had to shuck and cook scallops. Most of them have never done this before, while others cleaned the saltwater clams like experts. Before that, the three winners from the previous elimination challenge took part in a cupcake-frosting contest. Sam and his 29 gorgeously frosted cupcakes won. For his reward, he was exempted from the elimination challenge.
For the scallops challenge, three kiddie cooks impressed the judges with their tasty masterpieces. Tae-Ho prepared seared scallops with risotto and brussels sprouts. Gordon Ramsay was mightily impressed with his technical abilities, especially in making a divine risotto.
The next dish drew the judges in with its stunning presentation. Ian and his pan-seared scallops with zucchini cakes and microgreens were deemed A-Okay.
Lastly, there was Derek, also with pan-seared scallops but paired with Israeli couscous and herb pesto. The dish was almost "perfection," according to Gordon, saying it could use a little more salt.
Ultimately, it was Tae-Ho who was declared the challenge winner. Unfortunately for Chad and Annabelle, it was the end of their stay in the MasterChef kitchen. Chad's spaghetti and meatballs was overpowering the main ingredient, while Annabelle's ceviche was too complicated.
"MasterChef Junior" season 4 airs Fridays at 8 p.m. on FOX.
