MasterChef Junior interview: Emily Chavez talks risotto, breakfast, show experience

Emily Chavez

Emily Chavez was one of many contestants taking part in MasterChef Junior this season and, from start to finish, she worked hard to deliver a lot of great cuisine. She made it very far this season (think in terms of the top 14), but it was ultimately a breakfast challenge alongside risotto that was her undoing.

So what did she have to say about her overall experience being a part of this season? In a new interview Emily tells CarterMatt about why she wanted to be in the competition, her take on her final challenges, and what she wants to do in the world of food next.

CarterMatt – What made you want to be a part of MasterChef Junior this season?

Emily – I wanted to be part of MasterChef Junior because I absolutely love to cook and to try new things. I also wanted to give it my best for a chance to be the best chef I can be and possibly win MasterChef Junior. My parents always want me to experiment and try new things so this was PERFECT.

What was your proudest moment this season?

My proudest moment of the season was when we won the donut challenge! If you ask anyone, they will tell you that donuts are my absolute favorite food group :). I wanted to eat them all. I even have clothes that have little donuts all over them.

What was the experience like making breakfast for the room service challenge?

It was both very fun but mostly stressful for me in the professional kitchen because there was a LOT going on all at once and it was sooo hot in the kitchen. It was like my LIFE was on the line or something. Everything in the kitchen was happening so fast but at the end, everyone got their food and I learned a lot.

Are you impressed that you were able to make the risotto? That’s one of the hardest dishes out there!

YES, I was very impressed and proud of myself because a lot of restaurants don’t even make that dish. I have tried to cook it after the elimination for my family and they said its the best, My dad is my official taste tester and he wanted more. So I definitely learned from that experience.

What was the best piece of advice you got from the judges?

I learned so much from my experience and from the judges but the one that stays in my head the most is the “Lay Away” rule. I had always got splashed from the butter or oil from how I did it before but now I’m a pro! That flying butter really stings when it splashes on you. :(

What do you want to do in food now that your time this season is over?

Now that the season is over for me on MCJ, I want to continue to learn new techniques and practice all I can so I can follow my dream of opening a restaurant with my cousin Andrew. I also want to bake and try new things in the restaurant. One of the ideas that my restaurant will have is a place to go play and hang out while people wait for food. So basically it will be fun and yummy!

Related Check out our other recent exit interview with Pierce!

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