Chopped: Volume 1

About Chopped: Volume 1

Chopped: Volume 1, released in 2009, is the first season of the popular American reality-based cooking television show produced by Food Network. Each episode sees four chefs battle it out through appetizer, main course and dessert stages using mystery ingredients. The series is hosted by Ted Allen. This is a platform where culinary skills meet creativity and speed, as participants have to impress a panel of professional chef judges to avoid being "Chopped".

Making / Production

The show's production takes place in New York City. It is produced by Notional, an IAC company, and created by Michael Krupat and Dave Noll.

Actors

• Ted Allen: Being the host, Allen effectively manages the tension, excitement, and flow of the show with his dynamic presenting skills.
• Alex Guarnaschelli: As one of the regular judges, Alex plays her role perfectly, giving insightful and often critical feedback to the contestants.
• Amanda Freitag: Another of the mainstay judges, Amanda brings her own unique style and expertise to the judging table.
• Marc Murphy: Marc is also a regular judge and offers his professional opinions and advice to contestants.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The episodes were shot over two days, with the appetizer and entree rounds filmed on day one, and the dessert round shot on day two.
• The mystery ingredients used in the show are actually selected by a team of culinary producers.
• The show applies a real-time rule; the chefs must complete their dishes in the given time or they will be disqualified.

Awards

The series has won multiple awards. Chopped: Volume 1 won a James Beard Foundation Award for best Television Program, Studio or Fixed Location in 2012.

Quotes

• Ted Allen: "The clock is ticking!"
• Alex Guarnaschelli: "I know how hard it is to make good food under these circumstances. It’s not lost on me."
• Amanda Freitag: "You have to take these ingredients; honor them and make something delicious."

Music, Soundtrack

• The show features a suspenseful orchestral score that adds intensity to the competition.
• The opening theme of the show is written by Scott Schreer.