Amateur cook, Ammara Noman won the first-ever MasterChef Pakistan – a reality TV show based on the popular global TV franchise – after a tough competition between the three finalists on Sunday night.

Gulnaz and Madiha Khalid were the other finalists.

Ammara was awarded a number of prizes including chef training from leading professional chefs, the title of MasterChef, the chance to have her own cookbook published, and Rs5,000,000 in cash. Second prize won by Gulnaz was Rs1,000,000 while Madiha received Rs500,000.

The hashtag #masterchefpakistan became one of the top trends in Pakistan as local Twitter users gave a blow-by-blow of the episode.

Masterchef Pakistan is the third global TV franchise to come to local screens after Survivor and Pakistan Idol.

The show took amateur chefs – many of whom simply cook as a hobby – and attempted to turn one of them into culinary masters. Contestants had the opportunity to develop their cooking skills while being encouraged, mentored and celebrated by some of the local industry's best.

The judges’ panel comprised of Chef Mehboob, Chef Zakir and debuting Executive Assistant Manager of Movenpick Hotel Karachi, Khurram Awan.

Out of initial 50 contestants, 20 had managed to progress to the main stage of the show, who were then whittled down through a number of individual and team-based cooking challenges and weekly elimination rounds.

The final three

Ammara Noman

Ammara is a 33 year old house wife and a mother of four. She was married at a very young age and did not get a chance to complete her education. She has always been interested in cooking and has been learning different cuisines over the years.

Gulnaz

Gulnaz is a 31 year old mother of three boys from Chitral. She has done her Intermediate from Chitral. Her husband was her inspiration to pursue her dream to be a Chef. Her knowledge of Chitrali cuisine was her strength in the competition. At the risk of earning her in-laws disapproval Gulnaz has decided to pursue a career in the food industry by participating in MasterChef Pakistan.

Madiha Khalid

Madiha is a 22 year old house wife. She has done her BSC Honors in Economics and Management from Roots International College and University. Her family and friends encouraged her to pursue her passion in cooking.