After that point was duly noted by the contestants (Almodovar playfully
high-fived, then hugged Heins), it was time for the games to begin. In a
riff on many Food Network shows, contestants had 20 minutes and $20 to
purchase the ingredients they needed to feed three judges. They also has
a pantry with basics like salt, pepper, oil, and basic seasonings at
their disposal. After the purchase phase, each chef (or cook) had 20
minutes to prepare and plate their dish, which would then be judged for
taste, presentation, and originality.
Once the clock started, Almodovar and Heins dashed out to the floor.
Almodovar made a beeline for the seafood, choosing fresh grouper. Heins
was found at the meat counter, buying ground grass-fed beef and a spicy sausage.
