Queensland mother and daughter Krysten and Lucy were eliminated from My Kitchen Rules after NSW mates Harrison and Oliver edged them out by just two points in the first Kitchen HQ elimination cook-off.
The two highest-scoring teams from the second Instant Restaurant round faced a two-course banquet challenge, cooking mains and desserts for judges Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge and the five safe teams.
With both teams averaging eight out of 10, dessert proved decisive: Harrison and Oliver scored 38 out of 50 to Krysten and Lucy’s 36.
Krysten and Lucy went big with chicken Madras curry, vegetable pakora, dahl, raita, garlic naan, rice and pineapple chutney. The ambitious spread impressed, despite slightly overcooked chicken and naan that lacked its signature puff.
“It looked amazing. I was like, I would eat in this restaurant,” Colin said.
Harrison and Oliver served a steak feast, but a salt mishap, inconsistent fries and plain beans threatened their chances. Their perfectly cooked beef kept them in contention.
“That beef was cooked to perfection,” Manu said.
Krysten and Lucy’s cardamom buns with orange cream, pistachio-stuffed dates and shortbread showcased their technique, but the buns were heavy and tight, leaving the cream unable to reach the centre.
“My bun had no cream. It was dry,” Colin said, suggesting they should have focused on the buns rather than the extra elements.
Harrison and Oliver’s nonno’s fritole with coffee cream delivered the comeback they needed.
“The doughnut was ugly, but the inside was full of flavour,” Manu said, praising its moist centre and crisp exterior.
As the safe teams debated the food, Angus suggested some contestants wanted Krysten and Lucy eliminated because they were strong competition.
“I just have felt that there is dishonesty when it comes to some critiques, and that might be unfounded, but that’s just how I feel about some people’s critiques,” he said.
Mary hit back: “Well, I’m upset being called dishonest because that’s just not right. Just because we have different opinions doesn’t mean that I’m dishonest.”
Manu challenged Angus: “If I personally go against everything you said today when I give my critique, will I be a liar?”
“No,” Angus replied.
After Harrison and Oliver secured their place in the competition, Oliver admitted the victory was bittersweet.
“We fully were prepared to see them in the grand final, and if there was anyone we were worried to go up against, it was definitely going to be you two,” he told Krysten and Lucy.
Colin paid tribute to the departing pair: “You’re everything that embodies this competition. You loved it, you lived it. The food you cook is the food I want to eat.”
Lucy said: “The best part’s spending this time with mum. I’m really proud of us, and I feel like we will remember this for the rest of our lives.”
