UK (Commonwealth Union)_ Following eight weeks of progressively demanding challenges, the winner of MasterChef 2024 has been finally declared. Accordingly, Brin Pirathapan, a British Sri Lankan veterinary surgeon, has secured the esteemed title of ‘MasterChef Champion 2024’ in the United Kingdom. This victory culminated at the conclusion of the 20th installment of the nation’s foremost culinary competition. Notably, Pirathapan, a veterinary surgeon, clinched the 20th series with his culinary creations featuring ingredients such as octopus and venison.
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Having spent his formative years in Chelmsford, Essex, and presently residing in Bristol, Pirathapan outshone fellow finalists at the revered French fine dining establishment Le Gavroche, which ceased operations earlier this year. The 29-year-old triumphed over 44-year-old farmer Louise Lyons Macleod, hailing from Exmoor National Park, and 44-year-old circus performer Chris Willoughby, from Oxfordshire. Accordingly, Judge John Torode commended the finalists, remarking “Twenty years we’ve been doing MasterChef. That is the best final we’ve ever done.”
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Upon being announced as the victor, Pirathapan expressed profound astonishment, stating, “I am absolutely chuffed to bits. The experience itself has been incredible, but to top it off with this has just been the best thing ever.” Pirathapan’s culinary collection included a starter featuring octopus with honey and orange, a main course comprising venison alongside a short rib tart, beetroot, and celeriac, and a dessert comprising white chocolate and cardamom served with mango, lime, and chilli sorbet. Additionally, his competitor Chris, drawing inspiration from his background as a circus performer, presented a starter titled “The Tightrope Walker” comprising Japanese custard, raw sea urchin, and flying fish roe. His main course, dubbed “The Acrobat,” showcased red mullet, frogs’ legs, and squid ink tuille, while his dessert, titled “The Clown,” featured a berry sugar sphere accompanied by green apple candy floss and liquorice ice cream.
Reflecting on his MasterChef journey, Pirathapan noted, “My personal highlight of the competition was the 20th anniversary dinner. Receiving a huge standing ovation from a room full of culinary royalty was one of the greatest feelings I’ve ever had.” Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to cook for judges John and Gregg, Pirathapan acknowledged the nerve-wracking anticipation of their feedback during tastings. He described the experience as both stressful and fantastic, emphasizing its significance in his life and his commitment to integrating cooking into his future endeavors.
Discussing his winning menu infused with the flavors of his Sri Lankan heritage, Pirathapan remarked, “I’m a big mix of my background and my culture and all the opportunities my parents have given me. They’ve been incredible, I’ve done it for them.” Since embarking on his televised MasterChef journey in April 2024, viewers and judges alike have consistently marveled at Pirathapan’s culinary prowess. His evolution and proficiency in the kitchen have captivated audiences across the UK, estimated to number in the millions.
