Chopped Episode Recap: Korean Short Ribs, Canned Spaghetti, Pineapple

In this electrifying episode of “Chopped,” four talented chefs faced the ultimate culinary challenge, crafting dishes with unexpected ingredients that tested their creativity and skill. The mystery baskets had a mix of flavors and textures that required the chefs to think fast and cook smart.

Round 1: Appetizer Challenge

The competition began with an exciting selection of ingredients: Korean short ribs, canned spaghetti, purple artichokes, and baby pineapple.

To kick things off, the chefs had to balance the bold, rich flavors of the short ribs with the sweetness of the baby pineapple. Some chefs marinated the short ribs to intensify their flavor, while others took a more avant-garde approach by incorporating the textures of the canned spaghetti in innovative ways. The purple artichokes added a vibrant touch to their plates and were used in various preparations, from a straightforward sauté to a unique artichoke purée.

As the timer ticked down, sparks flew in the kitchen. The combination of sweet and savory proved to be a delightful rollercoaster for both chefs and judges. In the end, only the most inventive dish moved forward to the entrée round.

Round 2: Entrée Challenge

The second round featured a new set of ingredients: tilefish, hot German mustard, pimento cheese, and Cape gooseberries. The chefs had to elevate their game once again.

Tilefish, known for its delicate flavor, became the star of several plates. Chefs paired it with the zesty hot German mustard to create piquant sauces, while the creamy pimento cheese added depth and richness. The Cape gooseberries offered a unique tartness, providing an unexpected twist to their entrees.

As the clock neared expiry, the pressure mounted, with each chef striving for a balance of flavors and plating finesse. Ultimately, only the best dish secured a spot in the final dessert round.

Round 3: Dessert Challenge

In the final showdown, chefs faced a quirky mix of ingredients: honey-flavored cereal, soy sauce, pears, and cocktail franks.

This round truly showcased the chefs’ ingenuity! The sweetness from the honey cereal and pears could have easily complemented each other, but the addition of soy sauce and cocktail franks posed a unique challenge. Some chefs opted to create a savory dessert, harnessing the flavors of the cocktail franks by incorporating them into a sweet-and-salty pancake or fritter.

Textures played an important role, with chefs utilizing the honey cereal for crusts or as a garnish, adding crunch to their inventive plates. The creative presentations were as impressive as the dishes themselves, and the judges had a tough decision to make.

Conclusion: A Thrilling Competition

In this vibrant episode of “Chopped,” creativity was pushed to the limits as each chef transformed unusual ingredients into cohesive dishes. From the earthy flavors of Korean short ribs to the surprising delights of honey cereal and soy sauce, the episode demonstrated the beauty of culinary art under pressure.

Ultimately, only one chef emerged victorious, having expertly navigated each round to impress the judges with their skill, ingenuity, and pallet of flavors. This episode is a testament to the excitement and unpredictability that makes “Chopped” a must-watch for every culinary enthusiast. Be sure to catch the entire episode for a front-row seat to the competition’s exhilarating moments.

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Video “Chopped: Korean Short Ribs, Canned Spaghetti, Pineapple | Full Episode Recap | S12 E9 | Food Network” was uploaded on 11/18/2025 to Youtube Channel Food Network