Thea for MasterChef 2025 Heat 1 / BBC
Age: 28
Occupation: Marketing Co-ordinator
From: London via Shrewsbury
How would you describe your style of cooking?
“I would describe my style of cooking as intuitive with lots of adding in, dashes of this and pinches of that. That’s how my dad taught me to cook, taste as you go.
“I’m influenced by a lot of cuisines; I like to mash up my styles and add a twist to things. I’m most drawn to Korean, Italian, Chinese (specifically Hunan and Sichuan) and Thai but I am always looking to expand my repertoire. One of my favourite flavours to work with is umami, it’s my go-to.”
What is your favourite ingredient to cook with and why?
“My favourite ingredient to cook with is pork belly. I love the way that you can put any flavour profile with it. Whether it be Asian-inspired, Italian, French or British. Also, the combination of falling apart meat with crispy crackling is super special.”
Why did you enter MasterChef this year?
“I was definitely encouraged to enter MasterChef by a close friend, however as the process went on I really wanted to see whether I could actually make it into the competition. I’ve recently been considering what to do with my life and I host regular dinner parties for my friends, and they tell me it’s great. I get excited about inventing new dishes and flavour profiles and get such a buzz when my friends enjoy my food. I’m keen to learn more in a high quality and pressurised environment.”
MasterChef returns Wednesday at 8pm on BBC One.
