Who is chef Dan Merriman MasterChef: The Professionals 2024 contestant?

Four more chefs take to our screens in the next heat of MasterChef: The Professionals 2024, on Thursday, November 7 (8pm).

Introducing Dan Merriman, senior sous chef at The Black Bull Inn in Lancashire.

Dan has been a chef for the past 12 years, gaining experience at various high-profile locations, before taking a job at his local pub.

Name

Dan Merriman

Age

29

Where are you from/where do you live?

Originally from Worcestershire, Dan grew up on a council estate as the eldest of five boys. He started working in kitchens as a necessity to earn money but quickly found it to be his destiny. He has worked in award-winning restaurants and now lives in Accrington with his partner Chloe and their baby boy, Ernest.

Current and previous experience

Dan got his first kitchen porter job when he was a teenager and was taken under the wing by his head chef at the time who encouraged him to study catering. Dan did his NVQs whilst working and has worked in the Michelin-starred Plas Bodegroes, The AA 3-Rosette Cottage in the Wood, Fishmore Hall in Ludlow, and most recently Northcote Manor, where he spent over a year working under award winning chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen. He recently moved to be closer to his partner and now works in a local pub, The Black Bull Inn.

Who and what inspired you to become a chef?

“I never thought about food as a career. I grew up with frozen foods and the odd Chinese. My mum was a single mum to five boys so she cooked quick and easy meals that would leave us with full bellies. I had to get a job and start earning money so I started working in a kitchen. I was so lucky to have an amazing mentor who gave me opportunities. I remember the first time I learnt how to bake bread, just something simple, but that was it. I was obsessed and it inspired me to become a chef.”

How would you describe your style of cooking and any influences on it?

“I think my style looks simple, but it’s technically complicated. I want to get the most flavour possible out of ingredients and I love using different techniques. My dishes are a reflection of me, they show where I’ve worked, and what I’ve learnt along the way.”

Why did you want to take part in MasterChef: The Professionals?

“Going on MasterChef has always been a dream of mine, but I only had the confidence to do it when I found out my partner was expecting our first baby. I want to provide for her and my family, I think this will push me and my career. Even though I’m terrified, it’s worth it for the chance to learn and show who I am as a chef.”

Outside of cooking what are your passions?

“My number one priority outside of work is my family, spending time with Ernie as he is growing and changing so quickly. When I am able to have some me time I have always enjoyed music, darts, snooker and BMX.”