Flash Fiction: Chopped

A skilled chef uses three essential tools: a pan, a knife, and a spoon.

The competition is simple. Four special ingredients. Thirty minutes on the clock. Make a dish the judges love, and you’re through to the next round. A proverbial piece of cake.

The pan holds sizzling meat. The knife juliennes potatoes. The spoon stirs a savory hollandaise.

Poach the egg. Serve with bread.

Perfection.

The judges salivate. Bring their forks to their lips, hands trembling in anticipation. They take the bite then frown.

Failure.

It doesn’t matter what tools you use. Without salt, the whole dish falls flat.