The ovens are still warm, but Dustine Tobler’s journey on The Taste Master SA has come to an early end.
At 55, this self-taught cook and food stylist from Cape Town became the first contestant to leave the new season.
DUSTIN ON ‘THE TASTE MASTER SA’
Dustine entered the competition with a mission: to prove that passion for food knows no age limit. She quickly became a fan favourite, thanks to her warmth, creativity, and infectious enthusiasm.
“Being part of Season Six of The Taste Master SA was truly a highlight of my life,” Dustine says. “I never expected to make so many new friends or learn so much about myself.”
The first elimination challenge was no easy task, with contestantshaving to deliver a complete bread course, putting their skills and nerves to the test.
With guidance from renowned chef Zola Nene, the pressure was on, as Dustine chose to create a Mediterranean-inspired olive sourdough.
MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE
She poured her heart into the bake, aiming to capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in every bite.
“Incorporating olives wasn’t just about flavour,” she explains. “It was about storytelling—bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to the table.”
Despite her best efforts, Dustine’s bread didn’t rise to the occasion, and she became the first to bid farewell to the competition, according to Blazon Magazine.
‘THE TASTE MASTER SA’ EXPERIENCE
The experience was humbling but invaluable, “this challenge pushed me to confront my weaknesses and reflect on my techniques,” Dustine admits.
“Bread making is a dance with patience, creativity, and intuition.” She leaves the show with a renewed commitment to growth, both in and out of the kitchen.
At 55, Dustine isn’t slowing down, as she’s on a mission to learn something new every six weeks. “Growth knows no age,” she insists. “The scariest challenges can lead to the most fulfilling adventures.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR DUSTINE?
Now, Dustine is focusing on her catering business, ‘Let Dustine Do It,’ and sharpening her food styling skills. “I wish I’d started this years ago,” she laughs,“but I’m more inspired than ever.”
Catch new episodes of The Taste Master SAevery Tuesday at 19:30 on SABC 2, with repeats on Wednesdays and Sundays.
For more information, visit www.thetastemaster.co.za. Follow the show on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes moments.
WHICH DISH OR CUISINE INSPIRES YOU THE MOST IN YOUR COOKING?
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