Emotionally you can see Tim Malzer (52) frequently, reverentially rather rarely. At Schlemmer’s duel “Kitchen Impossible” (Vox) challenger René Frank (38) met the TV chef in a very sensitive spot.
Maltsters in Italy – when it comes to the star chef, that alone sounds like a relaxed triumph in a cooking duel. Before he even knew which dish to cook, Mälzer said: “Italy is a sure-fire success for me because I love the country so much.”
So far as a sure-fire success … it was precisely this great love that became a problem for the star chef on Sunday evening. Because his opponent sent him to Maiori – the birthplace of maltster teacher Gennaro Contaldo (74). A super emotional journey for the cocky TV chef.
René Frank (left) challenged Mälzer
Because when Mälzer was about to give up his apron, his passion for cooking reignited through his collaboration with Contaldo. About his culinary foster father he says: “He is the most important person in my gastronomic life as well as in my human life.”
Mälzer visibly moved: “I want Daddy to be proud. If I come here now and want to show how beautiful this corner is and I make a fool of myself, then that can do something to me.”
Mälzer goes the delicatessen nozzle
Rarely has one seen the otherwise confident show chef so insecure! But it wasn’t just the location, it was also a challenge. Because it was all about the eggplant.
In addition to a traditional Parmigiana – an aubergine casserole topped with Parmesan – the dessert became the biggest hurdle: deep-fried aubergine with chocolate. Sounds weird, but it’s a popular dessert in the region.
Although Mälzer even got preparation tips from a saleswoman on site – he didn’t really come close to the original. The jury gave it 5.9 points, just short of their own claim.
Mälzer once again gave everything at the stove
Because before the count, Mälzer hoped: “For my self-esteem and if I ever want to face Genaro again, I would want an average of more than six points.”
After all: Overall, Mälzer was able to win the evening with 11.7 to 10.6 points. And he can certainly continue to face his teacher.
