Like so many fans of the show, we’re all getting pretty excited about MasterChef 2012 here at the MasterChef Magazine office. And, because producing a monthly magazine means a bit of forward planning, I’ve already had a sneak preview of the first couple of episodes to help along our May issue, and there’s plenty to get excited about.

This year’s top 100 contenders seem like a really interesting and varied bunch – and they’re all impressive cooks. We’re featuring six of the top 100 and their audition recipes in this issue, just to give you an idea what it takes to even get that far. I wonder if you’ll be able to guess which ones get a MasterChef apron? Occasionally, I imagine facing up to George, Matt and Gary with a signature dish, then give it up immediately! I don’t think my knife skills would cut it somehow...

But we hope our new collection, Master the Basics, will help! Each month, we’re giving you the lowdown on essential ingredients, techniques and equipment so that you, too, could end up wowing Matt, George and Gary skills one day. Part 1 is all about beef, with a few handy hints from Gary to help you on your way. In fact, everything we publish in the magazine is there to help you succeed at home – we love the drama and jeopardy of the show as much as you do, but when we’re looking to feed ourselves and our family quickly, easily and deliciously, we want recipes that work and that can be served up quick smart. That’s what features like our regular Mystery Box and 30-Minute Meals are all about.

For more special occasions, or just for when you have more time, we’ve some inspiring Mother’s Day treats to bake – Sophia, our food director, will tell you all about those – as well as a beautiful, Spanish-inspired menu from Matt Moran. George has also invited us on a tour of his cool new Melbourne restaurant, Mama Baba, and shared some of the delicious Italian and Greek recipes on his menu. Matt Preston dons his critic’s cravat to give us the lowdown on why he loves Perth’s fabulous West End Deli. (I was there a few weeks ago and, you know something? He’s right – again!) We also asked Melbourne star chef, Shannon Bennett, to give us an insider’s take on his hometown. Plus, we visit the beautiful region of Mornington Peninsula for a foodie tour.

All in all, a packed issue – and next month we’ll be back with more, including an exclusive look at what the contestants cook for each other when they’re back at the house after a hard day’s filming. Until then, enjoy the first few weeks of Series 4, and happy cooking!

Sally Feldman is the Managing Editor of MasterChef Magazine.