Chopped: Sushi Platter, Kohlrabi, Bacon Bits | Full Episode Recap | S13 E11

In this thrilling episode of Chopped, four chefs dive headfirst into a culinary showdown filled with surprise ingredients that test their creativity and skill. Let’s recap the intense competition that unfolds over three challenging rounds, culminating in a stunning sushi platter featuring an unexpected twist.

Appetizer Round: A Creative Start

The challenge begins with the chefs facing off in the appetizer round where they must whip up a dish using pickled watermelon rind, sushi platter essentials, kohlrabi, and bacon bits. The clock starts ticking, and the chefs quickly brainstorm how to harmonize these unusual ingredients into a cohesive dish.

Key Ingredients:

• Pickled Watermelon Rind: Adds a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the sushi.
• Kohlrabi: This crunchy brassica offers a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with other ingredients.
• Bacon Bits: Introduces a savory, smoky element that enhances the dish’s overall profile.

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the sushi rice, cooking it to the perfect sticky consistency.
2. Slice the kohlrabi thinly to create a refreshing salad base.
3. Create sushi rolls using the watermelon rind for a unique twist, incorporating bacon bits for a surprising depth of flavor.
4. Assemble your sushi platter artistically, adding garnishes from any leftover ingredients for visual appeal.

Entrée Round: A Bold Challenge

After the appetizer round, the stakes get higher in the entrée challenge with the introduction of ostrich fan filets, purple asparagus, fish roe in a tube, and blueberry wine. With just 30 minutes to create a standout dish, the chefs must think innovatively to showcase these unique ingredients.

Key Ingredients:

• Ostrich Fan Filets: A lean meat with a rich flavor reminiscent of filet mignon.
• Purple Asparagus: Offers a beautiful color and an earthy taste.
• Fish Roe: A delicate touch that adds brininess and texture to the dish.

Instructions:

1. Sear the ostrich filets to a perfect medium-rare, allowing the natural juices to shine through.
2. Roast or sauté the purple asparagus until tender yet crisp.
3. Create a sauce or glaze using blueberry wine to tie together the flavors on the plate.
4. Plate the dish, adding fish roe for pops of flavor and texture.

Dessert Round: A Sweet Finale

In the final round, the chefs face a dessert challenge that will test their sweet-making prowess. They must craft a dessert using cinnamon chips, baby red grapes, earl grey tea leaves, and pound cake. With time running out, the creativity truly shines through in their sweet finales.

Key Ingredients:

• Cinnamon Chips: Provide a warm, spiced crunch.
• Baby Red Grapes: Add natural sweetness and a juicy burst to the dish.
• Earl Grey Tea Leaves: Infuse a sophisticated floral element.

Instructions:

1. Crumble the pound cake and layer it with a mixture of cinnamon chips and macerated grapes.
2. Infuse some cream or custard with earl grey tea leaves fora delightful flavor base.
3. Create a parfait or a trifle by alternating layers of pound cake, tea-infused cream, and grapes.
4. Garnish the dish with additional cinnamon chips and a sprinkle of crushed earl grey leaves for a refined touch.

Conclusion: The Thrill of Culinary Competition

In this episode of Chopped, the chefs tackled an eclectic mix of ingredients that pushed their culinary boundaries. From the innovative sushi platter in the appetizer round to the bold entrée featuring ostrich and the elegant dessert with earl grey tea, each chef brought their A-game to the kitchen. The competition exemplified not just skill, but the true spirit of creativity and passion for cooking.

Watch as one chef ultimately triumphs over the others, taking home the coveted title. Every episode of Chopped reminds us that cooking is as much about ingenuity and adaptability as it is about technique. What will the next episode bring? You’ll have to tune in to find out!

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Video “Chopped: Sushi Platter, Kohlrabi, Bacon Bits | Full Episode Recap | S13 E11 | Food Network” was uploaded on 12/09/2025 to Youtube Channel Food Network