Episode 2

The remaining five chefs return to the kitchen for two demanding challenges that will push their skills, creativity and ambition to the limit as they battle for a place in the quarter-final.

Monica and Marcus are joined by special guest chef and Mexican maestro Santiago Lastra, who sets the chefs one of his most complex dishes to date: honey and chilli char-glazed duck breast, served with mole, a rich, deeply layered Mexican sauce, packed with toasted spices, dried chillies and layers of flavour. But Santiago isn’t looking for a faithful recreation. He wants the chefs to take his dish as inspiration and make it their own. With the chef who impresses most earning a straight passage to the quarter-final, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Some chefs push their creativity in bold new directions, while others struggle to match the precision and depth of flavour Santiago demands.

Then there’s one final chance to secure their place in the quarter-final as they take on the signature dessert challenge. Often overlooked, pastry demands a different kind of precision where technique, timing and attention to detail are everything. With just one place separating success from elimination, Monica and Marcus expect the chefs to showcase their flair and individuality on the plate. With the competition closer than ever, who has done enough to stay in the race?