The MasterChef Christmas specials are closing in on the grand final with four finalists ready to compete for the top prize. After four dramatic episodes, Anabel Alonso, Carmina Barrios, Mario Vaquerizo, and La Terremoto de Alcorcón stand on the brink of victory, preparing for the decisive showdown next Monday on La 1, during TVE’s peak broadcast hour.
From the outset, Anabel Alonso and Carmina Barrios earned their places in the finals by delivering standout renditions that paid homage to a signature dish created by renowned chef Toño Pérez from Atrio, a restaurant celebrated for its three Repsol suns. Each finalist was challenged to bring a personal twist to the dish, incorporating a clever kitchen technique and an extra appliance to elevate the presentation and flavor, showcasing their unique culinary voice while staying true to the original concept.
As the competition progressed, Mario Vaquerizo and La Terremoto de Alcorcón emerged as late-breaking contenders by faithfully emulating the holiday-inspired plates crafted by chef Claudio Silva. The dishes reflected the festive spirit of the year, balancing tradition with modern technique, and aligning closely with the celebratory mood of the season. Their performances highlighted creativity under pressure and a knack for interpreting classic holiday flavors in fresh ways, earning them strong showings in the elimination rounds and keeping their names in the running for the title.
The night’s setbacks were clear in the eliminations of Boris Izaguirre and Florentino Fernández, whose attempts to persuade the jury in the final challenge fell short. Their exits underscored the demanding nature of the televised talent competition and the high standards expected of the contestants as they approached the crown. The judges, renowned for their discerning palates and clear expectations, weighed technique, balance, and presentation, reminding viewers that every plate is a statement and every decision a step toward victory.
In what has become a cherished tradition of the series, the Christmas special culminates in a three-part finale. The finalists will first tackle the jacket test in the follow-the-chef challenge, a test that gauges leadership, adaptability, and teamwork under pressure. The second jacket is earned in a special homage to French cuisine staged at Disneyland Paris, a tribute that blends culinary craft with a celebration of cultural flair. The final duel will place the competitors under the scrutiny of Pedro Subijana alongside the three MasterChef judges, with a visit from a guest mentor who brings additional insight to the set. The episode promises dramatic moments, precise technique, and the kind of culinary storytelling that keeps fans tuning in week after week. The competition remains a showcase of skill, heart, and a dash of theatrical flair that has become synonymous with the Christmas specials.”