Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 5: Rematch repeat?

Now that the Round of 16 is set and the upsets have been marked, Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 5 brings a new set of challenges for these chefs. While the randomizer has been both kind and mean to these chefs, the ability to adapt is key to earning the belt. Is there another surprise waiting for these eight chefs?

Looking back at the first round, the unpredictable outcomes seem to be rooted in a common theme. Like any Food Network cooking competition, it is about showcasing creativity within the parameters of the rules. While timeframes and ingredients are finite, it is about providing the culinary judges the best answer on the plate. Just like a test in school, sometimes it is all subjective.

Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 5: Tiffani Faison vs Amanda Freitag

In a rematch from Season 2, this battle of the female chefs has everyone anticipating the potential of an impeccable answer to that culinary riddle. With the randomizer offering whole branzino, pineapple, tortilla press, destination dinner and 45 minutes, the combination was almost a gift.

But, the dreaded pineapple, as Alton Brown has referenced as the culinary competition death fruit, is not easy. Sure, everyone can talk about the pineapple’s enzyme that can leave a bad taste in people’s mouths. In this case the ingredient is unavoidable, and the chefs needed to use it well.

Tiffani chose to use Thailand as her destination. While the plate was vibrant, the flavors were not as punchy as the judges would have wanted. Although she used the required elements well, it might have needed a little bit more.

Amanda took the judges to Mexico via Key West. All the flavors came together well in this dish. From the visual to the bright salsa, it was a smart dish. Even if the fish’s cook was slightly off, it was a successful dish.

In this rematch, the outcome remained unchanged. Tiffani took another victory over Amanda.

Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 5: Elizabath Faulkner vs Jet Tila

In the battle of the culinary veterans, this round proved that knowledge is essential to winning this competition. While Elizabeth and Jet were given a decent randomizer, it was about seeing that chef on the plate. Having to combine mahi mahi, escarole, blowtorch, Sunday supper and 40 minutes into a dish, the chefs took different approaches.

First, the use of the blowtorch was a hard one. While there could be a charred plank, that idea doesn’t influence the food. Although home cooks might have longed for an interesting way to use that kitchen essential, it might not be the next item to add to the shopping list.

The biggest takeaway from this round is Jet’s use of ground mahi mahi. Not only did it add a new texture to his dish, it boosted the flavor tremendously. When a judge was surprised with an ingredient, it was clear that Jet had an advantage.

But, Elizabeth was equally impressive. A well cooked piece of fish earned high praise. Overall, her dish was smartly composed and is one that anyone would be delighted to enjoy.

Unfortunately, Jet proved to be just a hair better than Elizabeth. The number one seed moves onto the next round.

Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 5: Shirley Chung vs Joe Sasto

In another former Top Chef contestant battle, this round was all about culinary creativity. With the randomizer offering scallops, lemongrass, fish poacher, decadent dish, and 40 minutes, it was the ultimate gift to the two chefs.

Anyone who has watched Joe cook appreciates that he will bring something creative and innovative to the plate. While cabbage roll might not sound appetizing, this scallop one would be a welcome addition to any table.

But, Shirley is a master in crafting big, bold flavors. Her decision to make an XO sauce set the bar higher. The layers of flavors, the expert cookery and the creativity easily impressed the judges.

While either of these chefs could have taken down other opponents, only one could prevail. With some of the highest point totals of the season, Shirley took down Joe.

Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 5: Maneet Chauhan vs Eric Adjepong

The reigning champ, Maneet Chauhan, had some stiff competition in the final battle of the episode. Eric Adjepong knows how to bring the heat with his African inspired dishes. In some ways, it could have been the battle of the spices.

But, with the randomizer offering oysters, parsnips, carbonator, soup and sandwich and 40 minutes, the final dishes were less about the flavor bomb and more about the subtle. Given these ingredients, it was difficult for the chefs to add a little personality onto the plate.

When the judges referred to Maneet’s dish as having muted flavors, it might have been a punch in the gut. The “Dancing Spice Queen” is know for those robust curries and creative combinations. Still, the main ingredients came through in each bite.

Eric also struggled. While his soup was stellar, his sandwich was “clunky.” Just from appearances sake, it looked like the bread to filling ratio was off.

In one of the lower scoring battles, Maneet squeaked out a win over Eric. This round might have been a gift to the reigning champion.

The next Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode completed the round of 16. While there were no big upsets in this section, could a favorite be booted from the competition next?

Tournament of Champions Season 3 airs Sunday nights at 8 p.m. on Food Network. It can also be streamed on Discovery+.