Episode 2

In the second heat of the week, four new determined chefs set out to prove to the judges that they have the ability, commitment and style to push them to the top. First, they must control their every move in the daunting Skills Test before serving up two dishes of their own design in the Signature Menu round. With only two quarter-final places up for grabs, the battle is on.

The first two chefs face a Skills Test set by Marcus, who asks them to prepare and cook spiced monkfish and serve it with polenta and a chili butter sauce. Who will have the fish preparation skills and a palate refined enough to meet the exacting standards of all three judges?

The last two chefs have 20 minutes to complete Monica's task, a test of their pastry skills with a twist on a banana sundae. They must include caramelised bananas, a coconut cream, a chocolate sauce and a quick banana ice cream. Who will be able to draw on their experience in pastry to put together the well-executed and tasty dessert the judges are looking for?

The four chefs then have a final chance to impress in the Signature Menu round, in which they have one hour and 30 minutes to serve up a sublime main course and dessert of their own choosing.

Only the two best chefs will go through to the quarter-final and continue their pursuit of the coveted MasterChef: The Professionals title.