Andrew Benjamin crowned MasterChef South Africa Season 6 winner

Andrew Benjamin, a 40-year-old home cook from Kimberley, has made history by becoming the winner of MasterChef South Africa Season 6. Hailing from the Northern Cape, Benjamin is the first ever winner from this region. The grand prize includes the esteemed MasterChef South Africa title and a substantial R1 million in winnings. Cheerfully called "Benjie Baby" by the judges, contestants, and fans, Benjamin edged out 39-year-old Durban finalist Candice Meth in the season finale.

His culinary journey commenced alongside 19 other home cooks vying for the title, and he quickly established himself as a formidable contender, clinching "Dish of the Day" as early as the second episode and securing seven challenge victories prior to the finale. One of his standout dishes, "Crêpes Suzette Benjette," garnered praise from judge Chef Katlego Mlambo.

Another favorite was his lamb pie, which received accolades from London-based guest judge Chef Nokx Majozi and netted him R100,000 during the season's celebration of South African food heritage. In the final round, given 120 minutes to prepare a three-course meal reflecting his competition journey, Benjamin crafted a pan-fried salmon starter, pork belly main course, and a delectable dessert composed of meringue, vanilla sponge cake, raspberry coulis, chocolate crème pâtissière, and vanilla ice cream.

Despite the dish's complexity and the pressure of his limited time due to the intense cooking process, Benjamin triumphed, and his victory was particularly significant for the Northern Cape, as he aims to inspire fellow home cooks to showcase the region's culinary prowess.