MasterChef Star Reveals Past Financial Struggles

Eyalav Kinzan Sasson, a contestant remembered from the fifth season of "MasterChef Israel," has spoken candidly about the severe financial hardships his family faced in the past. Ahead of the latest "MasterChef - Dream Team" episode, Sasson shared his deep appreciation for food, stemming from his family's humble origins where every bite was valued. He described periods of extreme scarcity, stating, "I know firsthand what it's like to have nothing. I went through many periods of austerity, many periods of difficulty in my life. And I appreciate every penny, I appreciate every meatball. It was me, my mother, and my sister against the world, living on a shekel to survive another month."

Sasson recalled his mother's efforts to shield him from their poverty, though he, as a perceptive child, was always aware of their struggles. He credits these difficult childhood experiences with fueling his drive for success, emphasizing that he had no time for self-pity. Instead, he worked multiple jobs from a young age, choosing to live frugally to overcome their circumstances.