MasterChef Junior exclusive: Exit interviews with Solomon, Elisabeth

On this past episode of MasterChef Junior, we saw the first two eliminations of the primary portion of the competition. Solomon and Elisabeth both fought hard and cooked well to make it to that point, but they were both sent home after a challenge where they had to try and replicate a sea bass dish done by Gordon Ramsay.

Throughout the season, we’re going to be bringing you exit interviews featuring the eliminated young cooks. Be sure to check back in the days that follow the episodes! (We’re hoping to have these posted every Tuesday.) Meanwhile, come back tomorrow to this link to see a new exclusive preview for Thursday night’s new episode.

Solomon

CarterMatt – What made you want to be on MasterChef Junior?

Solomon – I started watching MasterChef first. I liked the different challenges and the mystery boxes. When I saw the flyer for actual auditions for kids, I knew that I wanted to give it a shot!

Is there a dish that you made during your time on the show that was your favorite?

My favorite dish was the cheese grits that I made as a side for my rib eye steak. I usually have my grits at home with a little sugar and butter, so I thought it would be fun to make a savory grits dish to go along with my steak.

What was the experience like working with the judges?

Chefs Ramsay and Tosi were very nice and I really wanted to impress them both. Being able to see Chef Ramsay prepare his sea bass right in front of us was an honor. I am still star-struck!

You said during this past episode that you had some experience cooking with fish. Is that some you’re inspired to do more of after the show?

This was my first time working with sea bass. I usually throw a couple of catfish fillets in the deep fryer or bake salmon in the oven. My family loves to fish though, so I am looking forward to warmer weather so that I can hook some fish and get some more practice in.

What was the overall experience like for you?

I will never forget this experience. I met some really fun and talented kids who have become my friends, I cooked for Chefs Ramsay and Tosi and lots of people who I have never met, but saw me on the show have encouraged me to keep cooking!

Elisabeth

What made you want to be on MasterChef Junior?

I knew I could do it and thought I could win so that I could start my own bakery.

Is there a dish that you made during your time on the show that was your favorite?

Yes, the fruit tartlet was my absolute favorite. I had never made a tart like that before. I have made a full tart since being home and it came out beautiful and delicious as well!

Was there a dish you wanted to make this season but didn’t get a chance to?

I was hoping to be in a cupcake challenge or in a really funny challenge with Gordon, but I did not get the chance.

How have your friends and family reacted to seeing you on the show?

They are extremely proud of me. We have had viewing parties at my house and I have made dishes similar for my friends that I made on the show. I get embarrassed, but it is neat at the same time.

What was the overall experience like for you?

Overall it was a good experience. I learned a some and made a few good friends. I especially enjoyed the special time with my Mom and little brother while we were in LA. I also got to go to the beach and see the “Stars”, and ride in an airplane which I had only done once when I was 12 months old. The experience has made the dream of owning my own bakery more of a realty instead of a dream. Even though I did not win, I now fully believe I will have my own bakery. It is not a matter of if, just when! Get ready Sweetwater for the best sweet treats you have ever tasted!

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Thanks again to Elisabeth and Solomon for their time! We’ll have more news on MasterChef Junior soon. (Photo: Fox.)