MasterChef cooking wars!

This season’s Italian specialists battle it out in the kitchen for Woman’s Day

In one corner, there’s a seafood king whose modern take on Italian cuisine has lit up the 10th season of Masterchef Australia. In the other, a super-skilled nonna who delivers years of experience. Aldo Ortado, 31, and Gina Ottaway, 54, bring their A-games in a chat with Woman’s Day, agreeing that the special part about Masterchef for them is finding each other.

You have a great chemistry as the resident Italian experts! Describe your relationship.

Gina We’re close, and cooking with him is like cooking with one of my family members – lots of fun. Aldo Having Gina in the competition is special for me. I’m a long way from my own mum, so to have someone I can speak with in my mother tongue means I can say

things in a way that feels real.

How do your styles compare?

Gina Our styles differ because I’m more of a home cook who likes to put up delicious family meals, and Aldo, working in a restaurant, is more restaurant dining. Aldo Gina moved to Australia when she was very young, so I think her style has evolved with Australian influences. I moved to Australia just five years ago, so I have a very traditional, rustic style.

If neither of you win, who do you think should?

Gina I’ve said from the start that Sashi will win. He has an understanding of flavours and combinations but, most of all, he’s such a beautiful soul. Aldo I would love to see Samira win. She is calm, polite and always there for everyone. She has great skills, is a really good cook and also has a great voice. I love her singing!