The last four chefs taking part in this year's competition hit the stoves. Awaiting them are two challenges that would have any professional chef quivering in the wings. They will need to outperform their rivals if they want a coveted place in the quarter-final.

It's a nerve-wracking start as they each take on the skills test. Marcus asks the first two chefs to dish up a beef fillet, with mushrooms on toast and a red wine sauce. Cooking the meat is one thing, but packing flavour into a rich, deep, red wine sauce, in just 20 minutes, will truly test their professional prowess.

The next two contenders will be hoping their dessert skills are up to scratch, as they attempt Monica's recipe for a scrumptious tiramisu. To triumph in this task, the judges will be expecting just the right blend of coffee-soaked sponge, cream and sweet mascarpone – all layered to perfection.

The four will then get a chance to size up the competition as they deliver their signature menu. One main course and one dessert that fully showcase their talents. Taking a risk might just pay off for the professionals, or it could signal their downfall. There's only one way to find out.

It's then time for the verdict. Which chefs have shown themselves in the best light and are deserving of a place in the last quarter-final?

It's knockout week, and the 12 best chefs from the heats are back to compete against each other for the first time. They will need to raise the bar, as the pressure is ramped up. This week is all about getting a place in the semi-finals, and these fearless competitors will need to outshine the competition to get there.

The terrifying invention test returns. Marcus, Monica and Gregg want each of the 12 to create a dish that sings on every front. Only stunning presentation matched with exceptional flavours will have the judges sit up and take notice. Standing out in this strong group of chefs won't be easy.

The judges will pick their favourites who then go straight through to the next round. Those that aren't quite up to scratch will go another round in the kitchen to earn the right to stay in the competition. If they cooked savoury last round, they will cook sweet - and vice versa. They will have whatever is left of the ingredients to play with, but they'll need to pull it out the bag to get through, as there will not be any third chances.

Two will be given their marching orders, and those who have impressed will step up to the next challenge, as the race for this year's title hots up like never before.