What happens when two iconic chefs become your mentors? You say, “Yes, Chef!”
NBC's newest cooking competition show, Yes, Chef!, follows chefs with raw talent, but who also have a few challenges, whether it be a fiery temper or unchecked ego. Guiding them along the way are two legendary mentors: José Andrés (who is behind half a dozen MICHELIN restaurants) and Martha Stewart (whose timeless recipes have touched generations of home cooks).
José Andrés is celebrated for his technique-driven, innovative approach in the kitchen. It’s no wonder our MICHELIN Inspectors awarded his world-famous minibar Two MICHELIN Stars, calling it a “culinary oasis” with dishes like a “perfectly cooked squab.” On top of that, he’s recently been recognized on Chef’s Table: Legends, is the author of books like Change the Recipe, and is a thoughtful humanitarian whose nonprofit has served over 100 million meals.
Martha Stewart is one of the most recognized home cooks, known for her elegant yet accessible recipes. The perfectionist was originally a self-taught chef, but she has decades of experience learning through close friendships with other culinary legends. In the MICHELIN world, she toasted with Daniel Boulud for his restaurant’s 30th anniversary, supported Jean-Georges’ opening at Four Twenty Five, and celebrated Lunar New Year with Angie Mar at Le B, to name a few.
Below, we spoke with Chef José Andrés to learn more about Yes, Chef!.
Yes, Chef! focuses on “hot-tempered” chefs. What’s the best way to cool chefs’ tempers?
All the talented chefs on the show have issues, but they aren't all hot heads. You know, we all have issues. Being a chef means knowing how to lead, and how to be part of a team. That's not easy in the heat of a restaurant kitchen, or on a TV competition show. But you have to channel your energy and ideas into making yourself better, so you -- and your team -- can shine. As my father told me when I was still a boy, trying to cook a giant paella for his friends, you need to master the fire to be a great cook.
What’s your judging style?
I watch the chefs closely as they cook, and as they make their decisions about what not to cook. Yes, of course I judge each dish for its flavors and textures, the composition and plating. But I'm always looking for the chef's story -- what they are trying to achieve, what they add of themselves. A meal is never just a plate of ingredients. Along the way, I try to give some advice about what I'd like to taste more -- or less.
What’s your favorite Martha Stewart dish?
In one episode, the chefs have to cook the perfect appetizer for Martha's perfect brioche-stuffed roast chicken. Oh my god, that chicken is to die for. I had the job of putting it in the oven and I was afraid I would screw it up. Fortunately it came out as perfect as Martha likes everything. So juicy, so tasty.
What do you admire most about Martha Stewart’s approach to food?
Martha knows what she likes and what she doesn't like. She is very clear about the food she loves to eat. That's the kind of person I want to share a meal with. You should have opinions about what makes a meal delicious or not. So we ate together not just on set but after hours, in as many great restaurants as we could find -- as well as my own home where I would cook for her.
What did you learn from Martha Stewart while filming the show?
Martha knows more about food television than I will ever know. She can say everything that needs to be said with a raised eyebrow, a slight smile, or the tone of her voice. I say everything that needs to be said with a lot of talking. We are the salt and pepper of cooking show hosts.
Hero Image: Brendan Meadows / NBC - YES, CHEF -- Season 1 -- Pictured: (l-r) Martha Stewart, José Andrés
