BBC MasterChef viewers demand series 'to be shelved' after 'nonsense' episode

MasterChef hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode welcomed acclaimed culinary genius Heston Blumenthal to the latest edition of the BBC cookery contest as six semi-finalists attempted to recreate some of his famous dishes and also to impress him with their own creativity. However, despite his reputation as one of the most creative chefs of his generation, viewers were not impressed by the task.

Taking to X, one raged: "People messing about with food on #Masterchef with c**p like quail jelly and bacon ice cream and smoke billowing round, is utterly gross considering so many in the U.K. have to go to food banks. This series should have been shelved." A second was equally unamused writing: "No sorry..this is just b*******... food should be about enjoyment, relaxation, family and friends, not science..." A third chimed in: "I used to love Heston's TV shows, but I really do not think I'd ever want to try and cook any of his recipes."

"Edible sand.. do behave with this pretentious nonsense..." a fourth fumed. aa fifth agreed sharing: "Pretentiousness will be elevated to a whole new level tonight..."

However, some viewers were enjoying watching the contestants challenge themselves. "Why are people so against experimenting in these comments? That's the beauty of cooking/baking!" One observed.

"Well, I'm enjoying this, it's like the masterclasses they do on the Australian version. A good challenge for them," another agreed.

While Heston had spent years perfecting his recipes the contestants had just over three hours to get a handle on them.

After he judged their take on his creations, he had the opportunity to sample their food. The contenders were briefed to cook a dish filled with theatre and magic and with a story behind it.

They went all out, creating dishes that were more lateral than their usual fare, including one offering that saw custard served in a baby bottle.

However, despite their best efforts, one person had to leave the show, and Henry was deemed to have been the least successful when it came to the tasks.

He admitted he was feeling "really disappointed," but he said the experience had made him a "better cook," and he was proud of how far he had come.