MasterChef: The Professionals 2018 Chefs – Ian Samuels

This year, Ian Samuels takes on Masterchef: The Professionals, cooking and competing through a variety of heats, quarter finals and knockouts until the ultimate winner is crowned. Greg Wallace, Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti 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 Professional Masterchef of the series.

Ian has been chef for over 29 years in the catering industry. He has explored all aspects of the catering work, from working in different cuisine restaurants to teaching in colleagues and secondary school, being a private chef, cookery classes in groups and private households for adults and children’s homes.

We spoke to Chef Ian to find out more about his experience on the BBC2 show…

What was the reason in taking part on Masterchef?

I wanted a chance to see if I could challenge myself against some of the up and coming next generations of chefs and also this was my fist time doing a competition so why not do the hardest one.

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

Yes, take on board and use it to your advantage and don’t take it personal.

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

Very intense, surreal something I have never experienced before, and mind blowing but fun.

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

My dish was classic seasonal, simple with no gadgets the way I cook just keep it simple but with flavours and textures.

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

My style is a mixture of many different things like texture, flavours, seasonal, making classical dishes modern, and keeping it simple but packed with flavour.

What was your greatest accomplishment during your time on Masterchef so far?

Being a part of the show and also achieving dish of the day …I was shocked

Were there any down sides during your time on Masterchef?

No, it was a great experience and I loved every moment and got a chance to see some fantastic chefs and work with them.

Would there be anything you would change?

For me it was a great opportunity and wonderful experience which I loved and I wouldn’t change anything, would I do master chef again……no.