He may not have walked away with the coveted apron. But MasterChef contestant Samuel Whitehead has made some friends for life during his time in the competition.
“For 24 strangers it was amazing how well we did all get along, we were very lucky,” the market stall owner tells TV WEEK after being eliminated tonight.
“A few people in the house that I got along especially well with were Arum, Pete, Sam, Eloise and Benjamin. But I would happily catch up with any of the top 24 for a cold one and some good food.”
Of his time in the kitchen, Samuel admits while at times he felt the pressure, he wouldn’t change a thing.
“Overall an amazing experience. I had my highs and lows like anyone but I left a much better cook and made many great mates in the process,” Samuel says.
So just who was his favourite judge? Read on to find out.
Favourite moment from your time on the show?
Probably the relief of getting a sugar balloon to stay in the air after the 4 hour cook to keep my place in the competition.
Most embarrassing moment?
Missing the mark in dessert week with my ‘borage’ dish, putting me in the bottom three.
What dish are you most proud of?
Not one individual dish but our collective effort for the Yotam team challenge. As captain I had a sense of pride serving a table of devoted meat eaters such a beautiful feast.
Who was your biggest competition and why?
Diana. She just always seemed so under control, like a chef that had been cooking for the last 10 years in a commercial kitchen. She cooks with purpose and precision.
Did you have a favourite judge?
Tough question. I think all three at different times in the competition. I think I would have to say Gary became my favourite towards the end. I admire his talent in the kitchen.
Which judge did you find most intimidating and why?
Matt seemed to love a good sucker punch during some of my tastings, I never knew what to expect from him. Plus… He’s a man mountain.
Who do you want to win and why?
Diana, because she deserves to.
What did you miss most while in the competition?
My partner Lauren and all my family members.
What’s next for you?
I have gone straight back into running my small business on the Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia. I plan to grow naturally and intend to run more workshops teaching people the wonderful art of vegetable fermentation.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
I don’t think so. I cooked as honestly as possible, things that I love to eat. It may not have been the best strategy but I wouldn’t change it if I was given another shot.
