Celebrity Masterchef: Vikas Khanna tells Nikki Tamboli ‘I see a true finalist in you’

Nikki Tamboli

In the latest episode of Celebrity MasterChef, Nikki Tamboli and Faisu, who had previously won immunity, were chosen as captains for an upcoming team challenge.

Their task was to select two members each from Tejasswi Prakash, Rajiv Adatia, Archana Gautam, and Gaurav Khanna to form their teams.

The challenge required the contestants to prepare dishes inspired by the rich and diverse flavors of Odisha’s temple cuisine.

Nikki selected Gaurav and Archana for her team, confidently stating, “I am cooking good and Gaurav is also cooking good. Since it is a team challenge, I know Gaurav and I will make fantastic food.” Her selection surprised everyone, including judge Farah Khan, who humorously reacted, “Mujhe koi bachao, mujhe chakkar arahe hai.”

Gaurav, acknowledging Nikki’s calculated approach, responded, “She is playing safe. But since it is a team challenge, I’ll make sure not to let anyone fail.”

As the challenge commenced, Nikki’s team prepared six traditional dishes, with Nikki personally making Aam Khatta and Kanika Bhaat. When it came time for the judges to taste, they were highly impressed by the team's collective efforts, but it was Nikki’s preparations that stole the show.

Celebrity chef and judge Vikas Khanna was particularly amazed by her cooking, telling her, “I am proud of you, Nikki. I see a true finalist in you.” Farah Khan, equally impressed, added, “I can stand in a queue to have this Kanika Bhaat.”

Meanwhile, Faisu’s team also received positive feedback, but minor flaws in their dishes cost them crucial points. In the end, it was Nikki’s team that emerged victorious, securing yet another win in her culinary journey on the show.

With such high praise from the judges, Nikki is proving to be a strong contender for the Celebrity MasterChef title.