Dishing up MasterChef experience

In 2012’s season four, Amina finished in the top 12, endearing herself to all who saw her with her skill, warmth and generosity.
Growing up on Croydon Park and very proud of her Korean (from her mum) and Egyptian (from her dad) heritage, Amina and sister Eman were born in Saudi Arabia but the family moved to Australia when Amina was four.
Growing up in a household of two different cultures, she has always enjoyed cooking and eating both Korean and Middle Eastern dishes.
After winning hearts in season four, Amina wasted no time embracing the food world. She published her first cookbook, ‘Amina’s Home Cooking’, which is available online, travelled to different countries promoting food destinations and hosting food events, and hosted pop-ups and food demonstrations around Australia.
“MasterChef was so much harder this time around,” Amina told the Torch.
“Since everyone now has professional experience; the calibre and the expectations from the judges were so high.
“It was sad to be eliminated but I feel that I put up a good fight.
“It just wasn’t my day on the day.”
Amina’s challenge with a twist saw her recreate a mango pavlova dish, with the twist being the removal of the recipe before the end.
“It was challenging and disappointing but I had such fun; it’s always a thrill to be in the MasterChef kitchen,” she said.
“And yes, everyone was very emotional which reflects the bond that you make and the fact that we’re all so passionate – everyone just loves to cook.
“I am open to doing more cooking shows and would love to teach cooking classes.
“At the moment, I am working in recipe development and planning to return part-time to my work as a paediatric nurse which I love.”
And Amina’s tip about who will take out the top prize with the Grand Final looming?
“I think it is a toss up between Reynold and Poh; they are both such fantastic cooks,” she added.