Doncaster lad who taught himself to cook wows MasterChef judges

Doncaster born Max Davies is in the running to become the 2020 winner of MasterChef after breezing into the quarter finals.

The 27-year-old wowed the judges after serving his starter, scallops with lemon, sage and crispy pancetta dressed with pea shoots and garlic butter sauce and main course, duck breast with celeriac puree, baby carrots, fondant potato, caramelised plums and pears and a port, red wine and five spice jus.

And, although it was a “banger” and he “nailed it” according to the guest judges, Max said being on set was the first time he had ever been “anxious”.

He said: “It was nerve racking, I have never had anxiety but I got it there. But when the guest judges praised me I thought – I can do this. Then I was more excited than nervous. Everyone on set makes you feel at ease even when you aren’t filming.”

Max was the first contestant to be put through to the next round on an episode which aired last week, with co-host Gregg Wallace saying “this lad may have something”.

Max explained how he was adjusting to his new found fame and said: “I knew I was the favourite in that round, but, I was so nervous to find out what they said – you don’t know. It is mad hearing yourself back on the TV – I was scared to see how I came across.”

The salesman at Certex UK in Harworth, said he hadn’t always been a whizz in the kitchen and was actually a picky eater when he was younger.

He said that he was inspired to learn to cook to a high standard after watching MasterChef Australia and YouTube videos while he was looking for work.

He said: “I couldn’t find a job so I just started practicing, watching videos and getting cooking books, then I applied for the show. I thought just go for it.

“My cooking has improved so much from being on the show – it gave me the kick to push myself.”

Max is now hoping to pursue his dream of one day opening his own place in Doncaster.

He said: “I have started doing private dining – I am not really earning anything from it but, I enjoy cooking for people. I have been doing tasting menus, they are eight courses. It is my favourite thing to eat when I go out.

“I know I can do it. I just want to see what happens and try to push myself. It’s my passion – I love eating, cooking and eating out.”

This week, MasterChef Heats continue Wednesday at 9pm, and the Quarter Final is on Thursday at 8pm, on BBC One.

Or take a look at his latest creations on his Instagram @maxdaviesfood