Chopped

I love TV shows. Everything from The Office to more nerdy shows like Fringe and Stargate Universe (RIP). But I absolutely hate reality/competition shows. Except for one: Chopped.

Never heard of it? It’s absolute brilliance. Four chefs compete each week to impress the judges with their creativity. For each course, they are given four different mystery ingredients and told to create a gourmet meal.

For a desert course they might get celery, soy sauce, chocolate covered raisins and bacon. They have 30 minutes to transform those into an amazing dessert. What makes this show so amazing is that they do! These chefs are brilliant artists!

These chefs’ creations are so intriguing. And they wouldn’t have hit on these if they hadn’t been forced to work with impossible ingredients.

When was the last time you worked with difficult ingredients? Who knows what masterpieces you’re missing out on by working only with what’s comfortable to you.

Are you a musician? Use a difficult, foreign mode or key to compose your next piece.
Are you a graphic designer? Use paint.
Are you a photographer? Use a cheap disposable camera.

In working with difficult ingredients and tools you hone your skills. You force your brain to come up with creative solutions.

What will you try?