Abayomi Susan
The pressure was intense, the flavours were bold, and the stakes were high as the Top 5 home cooks on MasterChef Nigeria were challenged to reinterpret beloved Buka classics in a task that required them to bring authentic “street flavour” with finesse.
Joining the judging panel was celebrated chef Bukie Akinmade, whose expertise, warmth, and deep appreciation for Nigerian culinary heritage added depth to the evaluation process.
For the challenge, contestants were required to prepare two dishes inspired by the rich energy, taste, and culture of Nigerian street food and Buka-style cuisine. However, the assignment went beyond replication, as they were expected to elevate familiar local dishes into refined, fine-dining presentations while preserving their originality, authenticity, and cultural essence.
For Derry, the challenge carried personal significance as she aimed to showcase tradition and heritage through her cooking. Unfortunately, her execution fell short of expectations, and the judges felt her dishes did not meet the required standard at this stage of the competition. As a result, she became the latest contestant to exit the MasterChef Nigeria kitchen.
Derry was joined in the bottom three by Favy and Fads.
Favy, who still held the immunity pin, opted not to use it, confident in her dish. However, her undercooked Dubai Pistachio Puff Puff ultimately worked against her, placing her in the danger zone.
Fads also faced a challenging moment in the kitchen after preparing two starter-style dishes under severe time pressure. During service, she accidentally came into contact with hot oil, a moment that shocked both her and the judges. Despite the setback, she persevered and ensured her dish was completed. The judges were ultimately impressed with her well-cooked chicken, and she was declared safe.
While some contestants struggled, David and Isabella delivered standout performances.
Isabella impressed the judges with a simple yet well-executed dish that clearly demonstrated her understanding of the brief. She successfully captured the essence of street food while elevating it to a refined level, earning strong praise from the panel.
David, however, delivered both creativity and confidence on the plate. The judges commended his presentation, as well as the balance and depth of flavour in his reimagined street food dishes. His ability to elevate familiar favourites while remaining true to their roots made him one of the standout cooks of the day, earning him the coveted Dish of the Day title.
MasterChef Nigeria continues next week as the Top 4 contestants battle for a place in the grand finale.
The remaining chefs will be tasked with creating two Afro-Italian dishes, with a major prize awaiting the winner of the challenge. As the competition approaches its climax, every dish, every decision, and every second becomes critical.
The show airs every Sunday at 7 pm on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family, with rebroadcasts on Wednesdays at 6 pm and Thursdays at 12 pm respectively.
Produced by Primedia Group, MasterChef Nigeria is supported by leading brands including headline sponsor Power Oil, alongside Indomie, Dano Milk, Malta Guinness, Sonia Tomato, Kiara Rice, Golden Penny Flour, Golden Penny Sugar, Golden Penny Garri, Golden Penny Semolina, Golden Penny Chocolate Spread, and Golden Penny Wheat.
