MasterChef: The Professionals 2018 Chefs – Wali Ulislam

This year, Wali Ulislam 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.

Wali Ulislam moved to the UK around 12 years ago an Indian chef from Bangladesh. He currently works in a four star gold hotel where they have multiple outlets including a two-rosette grill restaurant at St Sous.

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

What was the reason in taking part on Masterchef?

I wanted to test my skills and knowledge so I applied to Masterchef UK.

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

Take the comments on board from the judges and apply them in your future life because those are world class judges.

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

Its a great and friendly environment at the Masterchef kitchen, because you get to work with all these talented chefs across the country.

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

I have cooked for some great chefs in the UK, in which I have had good and bad comments, so thats a great learning curve.

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

I have worked in so many different kitchens, so I know a lot of different flavours. So its my way to mix a variety of ingredients together on a plate.

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

I can’t think of a downside to my time on the show.

Were there any down sides during your time on Masterchef?

The downsides would be having a full time job on top of doing the competition is the most stressful thing I have ever done. I feel like I haven’t slept for 2 months!

Would there be anything you would change?

I still believe if I could of kept myself calm, I maybe would have done better, but I would take part again and control my nerves.