MasterChef 2019 Chefs – Yui Miles

This year, Yui Miles takes on MasterChef cooking and competing through a variety of heats, quarter finals and knockouts until the ultimate winner is crowned. Gregg Wallace and John Torode judge the dishes being served – with all the action, tantrums, successes and burning disasters caught on camera. The winner goes away with a trophy and the prestige of being The MasterChef of the series.

Yui comes from a strong Thai family where cooking and eating have always been a focal point of her family life. Yui’s parents had always cooked traditional Thai and Chinese dishes throughout her childhood which she always helped to prepare and cook from a young age.

We spoke to Chef Yui to find out more about her experience on the BBC1 show…

What was the reason in taking part in Masterchef?

Originally I was going to move to Australia with my family but things didn’t work out so I decided to stay in the UK, my son is older now and he is currently completing his A-Levels – I want to follow my dream and show people how good of a cook I am and that was the reason why I applied for Masterchef. Cooking is love made visible, cooking is my passions and I want to show everyone how beautiful and delicious my Thai and Chinese food are. Especially when you cook from the heart.

Is there a way to handle the criticism from the judges?

You learn from mistakes, I take all the criticism on board and will create the better dish next time.

What is the atmosphere like in the kitchen cooking alongside other chefs?

It was very intense and with lots of pressure to have to finish the dish on time and with different kitchen equipment from home etc. You just need to focus on your dishes and try to control your nerves.

What is your approach to the imagination and creation of your dishes?

I believe I am a very creative person. You eat with your eyes first and I love to plate up my dish beautifully. I believe I can create some great and tasty dishes too. Pinterest is a great place to get some inspiration ideas too.

What is your cooking style and what can people expect from your food?

My cooking style would be authentic Asian dishes and flavours especially Thai, Chinese and Japanese. I believe food that cooked with love and care will always be special.

What was your greatest accomplishment during your time on Masterchef?

The dishes that I cooked on the first say received so many great comments. Even people who watched the show have asked me for the recipes, and of cause to meet Gregg and John!

Has there been any downsides?

The only downside was when I was voted out too early on that critics round. It was my unlucky round. I have a lot more to give but you just have to pick yourself up and move on.

Would there be anything you would change and would you recommend to a friend?

Just to have control of my nerves a bit more and don’t be panicked so easily. I believe things happen for a reason as I am so gutted to went so early, I love cooking more than I hated failing at cooking, so I have to push myself through it. One door closes but another one will open and I am very grateful for this amazing experience and so proud to be part of the Masterchef family. I would recommend everyone to give it a go!