Territory local Daniel Lamble misses out on spot in MasterChef grand final

The MasterChef semi finals aired on Monday, with Katherine foodie Daniel Lamble throwing everything (including the kitchen sink) into the cook. SEE HOW HE WENT.

IT WAS a valiant effort but the end of the road for Katherine firey Daniel Lamble, who was unable to snatch a spot in the MasterChef grand final.

Lamble, despite his stellar record throughout the competition, stumbled in the semi finals with dishes served late and an off-the-mark dessert.

“Daniel, that dessert was not your finest work and while the flavours were good, the execution was well of the mark,” judge Melissa Leong said.

“The pastry was raw.

“This combined with the fact that two of your dishes were served late, is the reason why I’m so sorry Daniel. You’re going home.”

The judges and eliminated contestants were emotional, particularly Julie Goodwin, as the verdict was handed down.

“Mate, it’s been an honour watching you grow, your progress throughout this competition has been extraordinary. We’ve loved having you in the kitchen,” judge Jock Zonfrillo said.

Lamble held his composure and thanked the judges with a smile.

“I’ve loved every minute of it. I can’t put it into works, like I genuinely never expected even to make it here, let alone make it this far,” he said.

“It’s been so hard … I’m very proud of myself.”

Territory boy makes MasterChef top three

KATHERINE firey Daniel Lamble has scored a prestigious spot in the MasterChef semi finals.

The Territory boy was faced with one of his hardest challenges yet, tasked with simultaneously cooking two of renowned chef Peter Gilmore’s most complex dishes: the savoury ray Abrolhols Island scallop, katsuobushi cream, sea cucumber and dessert “Moo”.

And while budding chef found himself behind against contestants Sarah Todd and Keyma Vasquez Montero, Lamble channelled his Territory resilience to score adoration from the judges.

“That’s unbelievable,” judge Jock Zonfrillo said of the savoury dish.

“It wasn’t as beautifully rounded and composed as yours was, Peter, I got to say. But what it lacked in presentation … it made up for in taste.”

“I can’t fault it. In terms of flavour, it was fantastic.”

Lamble got equal praise for the “Moo” dessert.

His passion and skill earned him a spot in the semi finals with show favourites Billie McKay and Todd.

Lamble and former contestant Minoli De Silva were the only Territorians competing in the Fans & Favourites season.

The MasterChef semi finals air on Monday, 7.30pm ACST on Network 10.