#45.09 Tendon Loving Care

[writer-at-the-table]

'Why do you want to win Chopped' is such a dumb question to ask a contestant.

'Why did you audition/want to be on Chopped' is fine. 'What do you want to do with the prize money if you win' is fine.

But 'why do you want to win'? Because the other option at this point is losing. You're essentially asking them 'Why don't you want to lose this competition today?'. Which is a dumb question.

[writer-at-the-table]

Apple tarte tatin: sounds and looks delicious, not sure if I’ve ever had it.

Mangoes: yum

Preserved Yogurt: never heard of it, and wow does that look disgusting.

Graham crackers: I prefer the chocolate ones.

[writer-at-the-table]

"I loved this. I didn't taste it, I finished it" is incredibly high praise, especially considering how much the judges have to eat in one episode.

Assuming each episode is filmed in a single session/day, I imagine the judges try not to eat too much of any dish so they don't get uncomfortably full with more rounds to go. So finishing a plate, in the entree round...that's a compliment stronger than any words.

[writer-at-the-table]

Okay, now two of them have cut themselves and there's a line for the one medic. That's a first for me. Though since Chopped apparently has 45 completed seasons, it's probably not a first for the show.

[writer-at-the-table]

Ooh, I hate it when someone cuts themselves. It's gross, and even though I know they bandage properly. I still squick at the idea of eating their food after.

[writer-at-the-table]

I have tried to use a mandolin to cut veggies many times, but alas, I cannot make it work. And ever since that time my sister accidentally cut off a bit of her finger with one, I've honestly stopped trying.

[writer-at-the-table]

Lomo iberico: never heard of it

Chinese okra: I've heard of Okra, but I don't think I've ever eaten any type

King Oyster Mushrooms: never heard of these specific mushrooms, but I've had mushrooms before

Pinto beans and cheese: never heard of it, looks kind of gross, but I'd try it once to be sure

[writer-at-the-table]

"Pea milk, despite its bizarre name, is actually quite delicious" is not a sentence I ever thought I'd hear.