Molly for MasterChef 2025 / BBC
Age: 30
Occupation: Assistant Psychologist
From: Edinburgh via Bristol
How would you describe your style of cooking?
“My style of cooking is one that is influenced by many corners of the globe. But it’s important to me that it’s the best British produce that takes centre stage in everything I cook. I focus on creating delicious dishes that are nutrient dense and beneficial for optimal gut health. This has led me down a rabbit hole of fascinating techniques; fermentation and pickling and using as many plants as possible. I think carefully about creating dishes for pure enjoyment and health, without restriction. I always use whole ingredients, try to minimise waste and if I cook with fish or meat, I do my best to source it as ethically and sustainably as possible.
“I love the work of Tim Spector and Dr Kimberly Wilson. Their work on understanding the importance of feeding your gut and the impact that this has on your physical and mental health is inspiring, and proves how essential a diverse diet, rich in nutrients, plays a huge part in our wellbeing and longevity. I also love the food of Yotam Ottolenghi. His sharing style, middle eastern dishes provide such great centrepieces to a social gathering.”
What is your favourite ingredient to cook with and why?
“Miso paste is super versatile. I use it to add depth to stews and soups, in salad dressings and in desserts.”
Why did you enter MasterChef this year?
“Since losing my dad suddenly a few years ago, I have been living life as fully as possible and applying for MasterChef was something that I had always thought about doing. I feel as though this experience, the trauma and the grief, has changed the way I live my life. It is deeply sad, and I still have days that I find very challenging, but I also seize more opportunities, experience so much joy in the small things in life and am incredibly grateful for each day I spend in this beautiful world.”
MasterChef continues Wednesday and Thursday at 8pm and Friday at 8.30pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
