Controversy Over 'Brown Veal Stock' After Chef Praised on Netflix's Black & White Chefs 2
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
On Netflix's Black & White Chefs: Culinary Class War 2, a contestant nicknamed 'Cooking Monster' drew praise from judges Baek Jong-won and Ahn Seong-jae — and controversy — for using a concentrated ingredient called brown veal stock (Fond de Veau Brun). In a comeback round where contestants could use only 10 secondary ingredients besides the chosen main item, some viewers questioned whether a long-reduced, multi-ingredient stock should count as a single ingredient. Brown veal stock is a classic French brown stock made by roasting veal bones and vegetables (onion, carrot, celery, tomato) to a deep brown and simmering for hours, effectively concentrating many components into one liquid. Critics pointed to another contestant who listed multiple dried mushrooms and vegetables individually, arguing the rules were applied inconsistently. Supporters noted the Cooking Monster may have cleverly exploited the rule and highlighted his top-tier résumé at Michelin-starred kitchens in California and New York, fueling debate over fairness as he emerges as a strong contender. The next episode will be released on Jan 6.