H from Steps Wows Judges and Viewers on Celebrity MasterChef
Welsh singer Ian ‘H’ Watkins, best known for his role in the iconic British pop band Steps, made a lasting impression on judges and viewers alike during the premiere episode of this year’s Celebrity MasterChef. With a career spanning 25 years in the music industry, H took on the challenge of the MasterChef kitchen with nervous excitement, showcasing his culinary skills and winning the hearts of many.
In the opening episode of the 19th series, which aired on Tuesday, August 13, H expressed his apprehension at the prospect of cooking on national television. Admitting to a reliance on a microwave and an air fryer in his daily cooking routine, the singer joked, “I’m nervous because all I’ve ever known – please don’t judge me – is a microwave and an air fryer. That’s what I live by. I’m sorry!” Despite his nerves, H approached the cooking challenge with determination and a touch of humor.
Facing off against fellow celebrities including Irish TV and radio presenter Craig Doyle, reality star Charlotte Crosby, Scottish radio DJ Edith Bowman, and Radio 1Xtra DJ Snoochie Shy, H embraced the competition with gusto. In the initial round, titled Under The Cloche, contestants were tasked with selecting an ingredient hidden under one of five cloches and creating a dish where that ingredient was the star. While others received baby aubergines, sweetbread, pigeon, and apples, H found himself with big prawns, a culinary item he had never cooked before.
With a mix of surprise and determination, H shared his strategy with judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace, aiming to keep his dish “very basic” due to his limited cooking experience. Reflecting on his motivation for participating in the show, H revealed, “I would like my kids to be proud of me. There are things I can do that they’re super-proud of. But I want this next chapter in my family’s life to be about family, about being together.”
Despite his initial reservations, H rose to the challenge and pan-fried the prawns in butter, garlic, and chili, serving them on a bed of rice with a tangy crème fraiche dipping sauce. Judges John and Gregg were impressed with his efforts, praising the flavors and execution of the dish. H received positive feedback, with John commending his cooking technique and Gregg applauding his bravery in trying something new.
As the competition progressed to the second round, H’s confidence grew as he prepared a spatchcocked poussin marinated with chili and paprika, served with crushed potatoes, bacon-wrapped asparagus, and a poussin sauce for the main course. For dessert, he presented a margarita cheesecake, showcasing his creativity and culinary skills to the judges.
Tasting H’s main course, Gregg praised the well-cooked poussin, while John noted a minor flaw with the asparagus but overall found the dish impressive. H’s dessert also received positive reviews, with Gregg appreciating the fun and delicious flavors of the margarita cheesecake. The judges’ feedback left H feeling proud and accomplished, reflecting on his journey from microwave meals to creating restaurant-worthy dishes on Celebrity MasterChef.
Ultimately, H’s hard work paid off as he secured a spot in the next round alongside Charlotte, Edith, and Craig, while sadly saying goodbye to Snoochie. Overwhelmed with emotion, H expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his cooking skills and make his family proud. As viewers tuned in to watch the premiere episode, social media buzzed with excitement and support for H and his fellow contestants, with many praising the singer’s progress and potential to excel in the competition.
As the season progresses, fans can expect to see more culinary creations from H and the other celebrity contestants as they compete for the coveted title of Celebrity MasterChef champion. With each episode bringing new challenges and surprises, H’s journey on the show promises to be a thrilling and inspiring experience for viewers and fans alike. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from Celebrity MasterChef as the competition heats up and the contestants showcase their skills in the kitchen.
