Talking with Some of MasterChef’s Top 18 – Interview Highlights

BNP had a chance to talk with some of the Top 18 Home Cooks on this season of Fox’s MasterChef. The following are our interview highlights. Due to Independence Day, MasterChef aired a repeat on 7/4. Instead, join us this Wednesday (7/11), for the wedding of Shaun O’Neale (MasterChef Season 7 Winner) officiated by Gordon Ramsey. It’s an event you won’t want to miss! Shanika Patterson This Miami event promoter won her apron in her ‘bloody-shoes!’ She promised, ‘I cook how I look: bold, tough, daring.’ She is ready to take down her competition as a part of Joe Bastianich’s team!

When asked if she’s watched any of the previous seasons of MasterChef, Shanika cheerfully replies “ever since Season 2!” She loves cooking shows in general, citing Chopped (also a personal favorite among the BNP staff) and the work of Anthony Bourdain. “Anything that combines cooking and traveling” is very much in this event promoter’s wheelhouse. Her occupational experience taught her how to act on her toes and manage different personalities. Both are crucial aspects when cooking individually or during the team challenges. One of the remaining chefs representing Joe Bastianich, Shanika calls Joe “the best mentor” before adding that Chef Ramsey and Chef Sanchez have helped her on cooking dreams; stating “everyone helps.” Although there were some challenges where it was entirely up to her. “The crab challenge was the most difficult. I’m allergic to crab, lobster, all of it; but I couldn’t let that stop m…