Holby star Lisa Faulkner cooks up a storm to win Celebrity MasterChef

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4yWqLFJIT8endofvid
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By Liz Thomas

'Fantastic palate': Actress Lisa Faulkner is crowned Celebrity MasterChef 2010


She was crippled by nerves and self-doubt and was certain she would be knocked out of the contest on the first day.

But actress Lisa Faulkner has been named Celebrity MasterChef - and hailed as the best winner yet.

The 38-year-old, best known for her roles in Holby City and Spooks, impressed judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace with her palate and creativity.


In the kitchen: The Spooks and Holby star demonstrates the absolute concentration needed to win the prestigious prize


Wallace said: 'You can't want for anything else from food other than to put it in your mouth and go "Oh my word".

'Lisa elevates humble food into something beautiful. She's possibly the best celebrity MasterChef winner we have ever had.'

Viewers watched Miss Faulkner struggle with her confidence in the kitchen during the course of the series, often leading to tears.


Finalist: Dick Strawbridge is watched by judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace


Fell at last hurdle: Christine Hamilton won through to the final of Celebrity MasterChef


She said: 'Before I did the show the most difficult dish I'd made was a Christmas cake. I'd never cooked lobster and my knowledge of seafood went about as far as cooking salmon.

'I'm really proud of myself. I've loved learning so much.'

Miss Faulkner beat author Christine Hamilton and Coast presenter Dick Strawbridge to the title.


What a dish: The star presents her food to judges on show


The best: Lisa Faulkner with her trophy after cooking up a storm


The trio had to complete a series of challenges over the past week which included cooking a three-course meal at the Michelin-starred L'Autre Pied in London for chefs including Angela Hartnett and Michel Roux Jr.

The final task was to prepare a three-course meal for the show's judges.

Lisa's winning menu included pan-fried monkfish with a butternut squash fondant and a dessert of almond panna cotta with poached tamarillos and berries.

source :dailymail

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