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Chef Brad Farmerie: Exclusive interview with The Next Iron Chef's booted contestant
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This week's episode of The Next Iron Chef, the Chairman decided to test the contestants' "Innovation." They were to take Asian recipes and recreate them into American classics. Unfortunately, Chef Brad Farmerie fell short of the task. This much-accomplished, and very funny chef, I might add, was gracious enough to take some time to talk with me about being on the show, and what he thought he did wrong!
Last week you were also in the bottom two. Were you surprised to be there this week as well?
No, I was not really surprised, although I thought my dish last week was very good, it was obvious that the judges were not meshing with my food, and that happens. I cook with particular flavors, and the dumplings I served this week definitely fell a bit short--not my greatest dish.
How long do the judges actually deliberate before making a decision?
I can't really give specifics, but it is quite a while! Especially for the chefs....
Alton Brown said that "All good chefs have a bad day in the kitchen." You said yourself that you should not have tried the pierogis or a dumpling. What would you have done differently given the chance?
I think everyone sees challenges differently. My mistake was that I tried to stay to close to the restaurant version. Thinking back, I wish I would have made fried chicken, wings, some sort of crowd pleasers that is an American staple. The dough for my dumplings took 25 minutes to make, and I could have used that time in a better way. I definitely needed something more dramatic to get the judges attention. But when you are in the moment, it is just crazy--you don't have much time to think at all. I just wish I would have thought it through a bit more. In the end, it is a race to the finish line.... a game plan is not a plan at all, it is a prayer.
The chefs in this competition seem to have a great time, you in particular. Anybody in particular you bonded with? You rooting for anyone?
I am rooting for all of them, really. They are a great crowd with amazing talent. I email, text and call some of them at least once a week. I made some great friends. Chef Trevino is just hilarious! We have even talked of being guest chefs at one another's restaurants!
Are you eager to get back to work at your two restaurants, Public and Double Crown?
Yes, I am indeed. I mean, don't get me wrong, as much as I really hated leaving the competition so early, I can't complain. We are like one big family!
Any advice for future contestants of The Next Iron Chef?
Wow, that is a deep one! I would say stick with your strengths, go above and beyond what you think you can do... that is where I went wrong. And most importantly, call me to go out for a beer when you get booted off!
Brad's Bio
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