Team Morocco 

Outside, three brand new Volkswagen Tiguans were waiting for us. Feeling confident that I had a game plan, I settled in for the car ride. Finally thinking I would get a solo mission to show off my cooking chops. But wait... Yes, there’s always a but! En route to our destination, Giada De Laurentiis and Bobby Flay called us in the car to reveal a twist – we would be working in teams again, with our fellow passengers. The challenge? Pull together an international-themed party and do a team demo for the crowd, which included Bobby, Giada, and special guest judge Tyler Florence. When we arrived at a mystery location, we discovered our event theme, ingredients, and decor in the trunk of our vehicle.

I was beyond delighted to learn we were team Morocco! I’ve not only traveled to Morocco, but I also learned to cook their traditional cuisine from a local woman in Marrakech, with my sister. I felt a sigh of relief because I know these flavors very well.  Opening the mystery basket, I eyed the package of lamb and immediately planned to make a lamb burger with spices like coriander and cumin. Bring it on! In my original basket, I had tri-colored cauliflower and decided to make couscous with it as a side. The texture of cauliflower is very similar to the small grains of couscous and, when flavored with saffron, almonds and preserved lemons, it’s a winning combo. The hour flew by so fast that at the ten-minute mark, I was still grilling my lamb burgers. This is the part where I started praying. Nailing the presenting at the Bites Bash was my goal. To be honest, it was my only goal. With two minutes per person, it doesn’t leave a lot of time to tell your story, do a demo, and interact with the audience. But that’s what I came here to do.

Adam and Amy have a distinct advantage in this competition, as this is their second time around! I loved our team dynamic. They are both so supportive and I felt we really shined together as a team. The highlight of the Bites Bash was opening with a heartfelt story about my trip to Morocco with my siblings. Once I started to engage the room, I was on a high and remembered why I came on the show in the first place.

Now for Amy’s demo to blindfold someone on stage… Well, we win as a team and go down as a team. In hindsight, I probably should have said something, but these types of situations you have to roll with the punches. In the end, her dish saved her.

By the time elimination came around, I was confident about my dish, but Giada thought the harissa overpowered the lamb burger. Personally, I didn’t agree with her assessment and always enjoy a little kick to my food. Note to self – don’t serve Giada spicy food.

Our team was safe. Unfortunately, Rebekah’s dish and the demo did not make the cut and she was eliminated. She’s incredibly vivacious, sassy and really funny. She’s some kind of good, ya’ll.

Love hearing from you all; please keep the comments coming. Thank you so much for following my journey.