Celebrity MasterChef: Episode 4

It’s the second week of heats, and five more up-for-it celebrities have traded in their glad rags for a pinny to show they’re worth their salt (and pepper) in the kitchen. The quarter-final looms at the end of the week, but not all of them will make it. Their fate is down to judges Grace Dent and John Torode.

This week’s wannabe superstar cooks are author and broadcaster Dawn O’Porter, TV personality Chris Hughes, soul legend Jaki Graham, actor Jamie Lomas and pop star Michelle Heaton.

Cloches at the ready, as first up are some secret ingredients. Each celebrity reveals which must sit proudly on their first dish. Amongst today’s offerings are butter beans, pineapple and smoked haddock. The larder has had its shelves replenished too, so there’s no excuse for a lack of inspiration. That said, some of the celebrity cooks might find the choice overwhelming. First impressions count, and John and Grace will be hoping to taste a bit of potential.

Failed miserably? Fear not, celebrities, as there are two more chances to impress the judges, starting with a blindfolded palate test. Can the famous five identify carved cubes of meat, fish, veg or fruit by touch and taste alone? The winner is rewarded with an extra ten minutes of cooking time in the next round, which might be enough for some final flourishes – or at least help them get everything cooked in time. It’s all to play for.

The fearless five then all head into tonight’s final round, where the Celebrity MasterChef street food market is set up ready for another day of trading. Each of the celebs needs to prepare the next street food success story – a dish they’d be happy to serve up to the paying public. The judges are sampling their wares, and with burgers, croquettes and tacos on today’s menu, they are in for a real treat.

There’s no elimination today, but every winning dish served up helps the celebrities’ chances of making it into this group's quarter-final.