Fusion foray fails to rule in kitchen
IT was a rollercoaster ride for Victor Aeberli as he and partner G felt the heat on My Kitchen Rules.
Drawing on oriental flavours and quite a bit of experimentation for their first foray into the kitchen, the pair took a hit for their entree, bounced back with their main, and then produced a confusing finale.
Mr Aeberli, a former Cairns resident, said they wanted to create a fusion menu, but fol- lowing their score of 71 (of a possible 130), a classic course may have been a safer option.
“We wanted to take a risk and be a little bit creative,” he said. “We tried a fusion menu, but fusion takes time and knowledge and a deep understanding of food and culture, and we can’t really shortcut that. So that was probably a little bit ambitious.”
The meal did not start well with Pete Evans describing their entree – an Indian fondue with idli dippers and red pep- per mole – as “a mouthful”.
“I said it’s a mouthful because it is a very interesting and unique, and quite confusing dish,” Mr Evans said.
But the Melbourne bartending buddies bounced back in grand style, with their main – Bak kut teh with wild rice and youtiao – earning 9/10 scores from both judges.
Judge Manu Feildel said the flavours took him back to a small store in Malaysia.
“Victor and G, I have had this dish many, many times … The expectation was so high I was really praying for it.
“And hallelujah you guys have done an amazing job on this bak kut teh.”
However, their dessert – an Indian cheese souffle with quince sorbet – was described as delicious, although it’s description was confusing.
“Did I enjoy the dessert? Somewhat yes,” Mr Feildel said. “Did I get what I’ve ordered? No.” My Kitchen Rules, Sunday-Wednesday 7pm on Channel 7.