A Houston native as comfortable with fried chicken as stir fries, Christine Ha won over the Masterchef judges with flavors and techniques—that she happens also to be blind and didn't lose a finger in the process is equally impressive. I met Ha at Eataly, where Joe Bastianich was hosting a viewing party for the finale.
What's your stay-slim secret?
photo from Fox.com
CH: [Laughs] I don't think about it. I'm from the South, so I like fried foods. But in small portions. I also love dark chocolate, but in moderation.
How were you eating during the weeks of Masterchef shooting?
CH: They catered food in for us. [Diplomatic pause.] We cooked way better. We all wished we could eat our own food.
Everything on the show is plated really beautifully for the judges -- what's the quick-and-unfancy dish you most love to make for yourself?
CH: Stir-fried noodles. I'd make that for just myself.