Bombes Away!

Masterchef Recap 16 May 2011

This elimination challenge is announced as a pressure test.  The cloche is lifted and it’s to be a Cherry and Coconut Bombe Alaska.  After back story’s for all, Ellie observes that “it’s going to be a tricky challenge” Alex concurs “it’s definitely going to be a challenge.”  We are left wondering what Billy thinks.  

As we await the time clock starting its 2 hour countdown Matt observes “it’s the day every contestant dreads when the future hangs by a thread.”  We just know someone is about to have their “dreams shattered.”

As the cooking gets underway, the other contestants offer support and advice from the mezannine gallery.  Alex scrambles the eggs in his ice-cream and Billy forgets the flour for his sponge.  Meanwhile Ellie is so under control she has time to lick the meringue off the beaters. 

As Alex battles against the odds to put up his dish, Dive Shop Owner Adam watching from the gallery announces he’s “going to need a heart transplant” obviously after missing a soundbite yesterday despite his impressive work station inferno he’s feeling the need to “lift it to another level.”

First up to the judges table is Ellie.  George thinks it "looks too good to eat", with “every element being spot on.”

Alex approaches “carrying his fate on a plate.”  Having failed to remember that “time management is everything” he is now “paying the price.”  The judges astutely observe that he has failed to achieve sponge / sorbet separation, however the silky smooth glossy meringue could yet save the day.

Billy arrives after “expressing himself with some quirky twists” (also known as failing to follow the recipe).  George doesn’t like the sponge and disturbingly sponge can be sighted through Billy’s off recipe expressive meringue twirls.  All judges are impressed by his smooth ice-cream. 

As we build up to the finale, our expectations are confirmed.  Ellie is safe!  Leaving the Masterchef kitchen today will be either Alex or Billy.  Gary drops a bombshell announcing “it all comes down to the dish you cooked today.”   Will Alex’s silky meringue with the beautiful sheen see him through or will Billy’s smooth ice-cream prevail?  All too soon the suspense is over.  Being an ice-cream desert Billy prevails and Alex is out!

As he departs we are reassured (despite the fact he has consistently demonstrated an inability to cook) that “he’s not going to let it stand in the way of his dreams.”

Off screen the production crew dash for the chopper to ensure we don’t miss that final ariel shot of Alex crossing the harbour bridge in the sponsors black SUV. Cut to the Masterchef house where we find the remaining contestants expectantly awaiting the return of the elimination survivors. Hang on a minute, didn’t we just see them up in the gallery watching the elimination?  I guess they must have been in the chopper!