Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Flavour 2010.11
Flavour 2010.11
RACHEL ALLEN
At home with the Irish cooking Queen
WIN!
Tickets to the BBC Good Food Winter Show!
F FOR FABULOUS
Beautiful Game
Best of British as youve never seen it before
www.avourmagazine.com
Autumn Menu
Starters
Baked camembert with slow-roasted garlic, oils & baguette (great to share) (V) Bowl of soup of the day with freshly baked baguette Whisky drenched Cornish scallops with creamed spinach & pancetta Pheasant breast with braised baby beetroots & red wine reduction Butter poached tiger prawns on a fondue of leeks with Mrs Kirkhams cheese
Our Classics
West-country beef burger with mozzarella, chips & tomato salsa Pork & Youngs ale bangers with mashed potato, Savoy cabbage & port gravy Beer-battered cod fillet with chips, mushy peas & tartar sauce Gloucester ham, free-range eggs, chips & salad Thai red curry of butternut squash, peppers & beans with jasmine rice (V)
White Hart
Welcome to a picturesque 17th Century farmhouse where the modern British cuisine is matched only by the quality of service. We like to do things were passionate about at The White Hart, so whether its wine, real ales, meat, game or fish, you can be assured that the greatest of care has been taken in selection and preparation. We think youll notice and appreciate the attention to detail, but why not come to find out for yourself this autumn? White Hart | Littleton-on-Severn | Bristol | BS35 1NR tel: 01454 412275 | www.whitehartbristol.com
welcome to the
Main Courses
Salmon & haddock fishcake with chips, salad, poached egg & tartar sauce Free-range Somerset pork belly & tiger prawns with carrot puree, green beans, mashed potato and Madeira sauce Loin of wild Scottish highland venison with fondant potato, curly kale and port & elderberry sauce Butternut squash, wild mushroom & ale pie with mashed potato and Savoy cabbage (V) Gressingham duck cooked 2-ways (confit leg & pan fried breast) with garden thyme mashed potato, braised red cabbage & red wine jus Classic beef Bourguignon with grain mustard mashed potato & braised red cabbage Cornish stargazy pie of prawns, scallops, smoked haddock & cod with Norfolk royal potatoes & seasonal vegetables Breast of free-range chicken wrapped in pancetta with black pudding, pomme anna and creamed Savoy cabbage Slow-braised bath chaps with parsnip mash, fondant potato & curly kale Wild game pie of venison, pheasant & wood pigeon with chips and seasonal vegetables
Side Orders
Chips New Potatoes Side Salad Seasonal Vegetables
Editor: Holly Aurelius-Haddock Email: holly@flavourmagazine.com Deputy Editor: Faye Allen Email: faye@flavourmagazine.com Art Director: Chris Jones Email: design@flavourmagazine.com Advertising: Miranda Coller, Director of Sales Email: miranda@flavourmagazine.com Photography: Misha Gupta, Daniel Hewison, Jeni Meade, James Walker Contributors: Stuart Ash, Martin Blunos, Sin Blunos, Tom Bowles, Nathan Budd, Helen Aurelius-Haddock, Sarah Hurn, Rebecca Gooch, Duncan Shine, Ron Faulkner, Clare Morris and Rebecca Sullivan. Flavour Magazine 151-153 Wick Road, Brislington, Bristol, BS4 4HH Tel: 01179 779188 | Visit: www.flavourmagazine.com Please send any comments or suggestions to the publisher at the above address. For general enquiries: Peter Francomb Email: peter@flavourmagazine.com For competition entries: Email: competitions@flavourmagazine.com Copyright 2010 flavourmagazine.com All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without permission of flavour. While we take care to ensure that reports, reviews and features are accurate, flavourmagazine.com accepts no liability for reader dissatisfaction arising from the content of this publication. The opinions expressed or advice given are the views of the individual authors, and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of flavourmagazine.com
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welcome
Welcome to the November issue of flavour! Someone asked me recently whether we struggle to find new and exciting things to talk about every month. Nothing could be further from the truth! In reality, the South West continues to offer us so much new material we struggle to squeeze it all in. As we celebrate our third birthday this month and sign off another jam-packed issue, we hope our long-standing readers will agree. Weve found a kindred spirit in Better Food Company founder and Bristol food hero Phil Haughton on PAGE 12, who couldnt be a better advocate for the great producers in the region. Inevitably our thoughts turn this month to the C word. If youre in charge of the menu over the festive season then check out the inspired ideas from Anjum Anand on PAGE 15 and Rachel Allen on PAGE 66. We guarantee youll learn a thing or two about easy entertaining! If however, acting the Domestic Goddess (or indeed God) doesnt fill you with much Christmas cheer and youd rather others do all the hard work, then our Festive Food & Drink Guide supplement this month is right up your street. We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as weve enjoyed making it. Happy Eating!
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flavour magazine provides effective communication through design. We specialise in brochures, corporate identity, advertising, direct mail, marketing and design for print. We have a reputation for clear, creative solutions to communication problems for a number of corporate, sports, financial, charity and leisure industry clients. We maintain the highest of standards, throughout each individual project and our client relationship. We pride ourselves on delivering distinctive designs and ideas that will get you noticed. For more information, please contact Peter Francomb Tel: 01179 779188 Email: peter@flavourmagazine.com Visit: www.flavourmagazine.com Competition Terms & Conditions In addition to any specifically stated terms and conditions, the following applies to all competitions. All information forms part of the rules. All entrants are deemed to have accepted the rules and agree to be bound by them. The winner will be the first entry drawn at random from all the entries sent back after the closing date and will be notified by either post, email or telephone. The prizes are as stated; they are non-transferable and no cash alternative will be offered. All entrants must be at least 18 years old. Competitions are open to UK residents only. One entry per person. Proof of postage is not proof of entry. flavour accepts no responsibility for entries lost or damaged in the post. Entrants agree to take part in any publicity material relating to the competition. The name of the winner will be published in the next edition. The judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Prizes do not include unspecified extras (such as travel). All prizes are subject to availability. Please state if you do not wish to receive any further correspondence from flavour or competition organisers. You may be required to collect your prize. Please recycle this product.
contents
6 In Season Tom Bowles and Stuart Ash cook up the best of the season 20 WIN! Tickets to the BBC Good Food Winter Show! 34 Beautiful Game Best of British as youve never seen it before 59 F for fabulous Ramsays visit to Portishead 66 Rachel Allen At home with the Irish cooking Queen
Holly Aurelius-Haddock
If you have any news or events that you would like to share with us here at flavour then email enquiries@ flavourmagazine.com
BIRTHDAY flavour
HAPPY rd
To celebrate, were giving away 10 pairs of tickets to the Good Food Show Winter turn to page 20 to find out more...
this month
the winds of change
The Soil Association has appointed Helen Browning as its new Director. She takes over from Patrick Holden who stood down in September this year following 15 years in the role. Helen Browning runs a tenanted 1,350 acre organic livestock and arable farm in Wiltshire, which supplies organic meat to multiple retailers. She is currently Director of External Affairs at the National Trust and is also Chair of the Food Ethics Council. Helen said:Leading the Soil Association is a compelling, exciting and important challenge. No other role would have drawn me from the National Trust. But it is crucial to reconcile food production with care for the health and vitality of people, wildlife, farm animals and our countryside, and the Soil Association is the best-placed organisation to provide much-needed practical solutions. Helen will take up the post in early spring.
winners
Congratulations to Rachel Brastock from Bradley Stoke who won a selection box from South Devon Chilli Farm!
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Congratulations to Raymond Rose from North Somerset who won a meal for two at Lusty Glaze in Cornwall!
POETRY IN MOTION
Thanks to A.A. Aberhams for sending this poem in which put a smile on everyones face here at flavour HQ!
Some folks like a bistro, some like grand hotels. Others prefer a country pub after a stroll in Wells. So, whether you be a Mendip Man or live in Portishead, there are a few things which I suggest that you keep tucked away in your head. If youre looking for a meal for two, when she can wear that new dress, Really push the boat out with that someone to impress, Theres one thing you should do right now and from this you shouldnt waiver, Before you begin your enterprise read this months copy of flavour.
To sample chocolates served in the countrys top Michelin restaurants, visit www.damianallsop.com
CALORIE CONFUSION
Nutritionists are now saying that the calorie content of items in our shopping baskets could be up to 25 per cent out. This is because the texture of the food, its fibre content, and how it is cooked can all affect the amount of energy the body is able to get from food. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization have looked at the issue in the past however and decided that changing the way calories are calculated would need huge upheaval and lots of money all for what they believe to be a marginal gain.
www.thatcherscider.co.uk
>Swede
Another member of the cabbage family, the swede is more than an adequate replacement to the potato when mashed or roasted. It is very similar to the turnip but often has a round shape with a purple-yellow two-tone skin. The season runs through to February just in time to accompany its most familiar friend, the haggis, on Burns Night in January. Look for swedes with smooth, unblemished skins. Larger swedes can be woody, particularly at the core, so choose smaller ones if possible. When preparing, cut off the root, peel the tougher skin and cut into chunks before deciding their fate. If left in a breathable bag they will keep well in the fridge for a week.
At their best
Beetroot and dill Remoulade Serves 4 Take 2 large, raw beetroots and wash well. Peel, finely grate and place in a sieve to drain. Meanwhile, in a bowl mix together 150g mayonnaise, 1tsp mustard and 1 tbsp anchovy essence, 1oz capers, 1oz of chopped gherkins, 4 chopped anchovies and the beetroot, mix well. When ready to serve fold through 1 small bunch of chopped dill.
Root vegetables and sage soup Serves 6 Peel 2 carrots, 1 small swede and 1 parsnip and chop into 1 cm dices. Place a large saucepan on a high heat adding a splash of olive oil along with 2oz butter. When melted, add in 2 onions (peeled and sliced), 1 garlic clove (peeled and crushed), and 4 large sage leaves (chopped). Cook for a few minutes then stir in the root vegetables, reduce the heat, cover with a lid and allow to continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Now, remove the lid, add 1 bay leaf and 1 litre of vegetable stock and continue to cook the soup until the vegetables soften. Remove the bay leaf, blend the soup and if required add more stock to correct the consistency. Season and serve.
>Beetroot
Beetroot has a sweet, earthy flavour with a beautiful deep red colour. As root veg goes, beetroot is fairly straightforward to grow and is available in lots of different shapes, sizes and colours. Their leaves are also a great source of nutrition but must be used within a day or two. When picking out beets, look for ones that are smooth and firm to the touch. Like parsnips, larger roots maybe a touch woody so try to avoid those. They will keep well in a fridge for couple of weeks but again, watch they dont wither and turn soft. Their rich red colour makes them a welcome addition to any plate. Shred finely with some other seasonal roots to make an earthy, deep red coleslaw.
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>Cavolo Nero
This is a delicious black cabbage originating from Tuscany. This time of year brings us some beautiful brassicas and cavalo nero is no exception. This cabbage does not form a head but grows long, loose leaves with a tough central stalk running through. It is a fairly easy one to grow and matches some warming winter slow cooking recipes and comforting soups perfectly. Like parsnips it is also best picked after the first frost. Look for crisp, unblemished leaves and avoid leaves where the core has dried out or spilt. Remove the core before cooking and discard any damaged leaves. It will keep well in a fridge for a few days but will start to wilt so dont store it for too long.
Cavolo nero with dried cranberries and pancetta. Serves 4 Peel and finely slice 2 banana shallots and 1 cavolo nero cabbage, remembering to remove the veins from the cabbage leaves. In a large frying pan over a hot heat add a large splash of olive oil and 50g butter. When fully melted add the shallots, 150g pancetta lardons and 10g toasted caraway seeds. Cook until the shallots soften, reduce the heat then add the cabbage and cook for approx 3 minutes, stirring regularly. Add 100g dried cranberries and continue cooking until the cabbage is just cooked leaving a little bite. Season and serve.
right now
>Parsnips
A real favourite of mine with the Sunday roast. Historically, parsnips were used to sweeten dishes where sugar was not widely available and so were used a great deal more in cooking. The potato took its place particularly when sugar was imported on a wider scale. It is fairly easy to see the sense in our ancestors as, when roasted, parsnips can be deliciously sweet and a great complement to any Sunday roast. A little tip is to pick parsnips that have already faced a frost as this adds to their sweetness. Try to pick firm, dry parsnips. The bigger they are the more woody the core tends to be particularly later in the season. They can be stored well in a fridge for 2-3 weeks provided they are covered. A parsnip that is no longer at its best will tend to look withered and wrinkled and turns slightly soft. Roasted with a dusting of parmesan, salt and pepper is a simple but delicious way to enjoy them.
We all know that eating with the seasons makes for healthier bodiesand tastier dishes. Each month Tom Bowles from Hartley Farm and Stuart Ash from Woods Restaurant team up to bring you all you need to know about thebest produce of the month.
Seared rare beef fillet with blue cheese and buttered thyme parsnips Serves 4 Wash, peel and cut 2 parsnips into large batons. Cook in salted water until tender and allow to drain. Season and sear 4 x 6oz middle cut beef fillet steaks on both sides and around the edges in a hot oiled frying pan until browned. Place in a hot oven for 2 minutes, remove and rest. Fry the parsnips in 2oz of hot butter and olive oil along with 2 thyme sprigs, turn regularly and cook until golden brown. To serve, divide 6oz of strong Stilton between the 4 steaks, place back in the hot oven until the cheese starts to melt, remove the thyme sprigs from the parsnips and serve with the steaks.
Plus, in December we have a special addition to give you fresh inspiration for your festive fare: Christmas treats 1 Dec 2010 & 8 Dec 2010
Small groups allow tailored and individual tuition, and courses are priced from 100/person. Participants can also take advantage of a preferential rate for luxury b&b of 35 pppn.
email karen@streamcombefarm.co.uk or telephone 01398 323775 Streamcombe Farm, Dulverton, Somerset, TA22 9SA
www.southwestcookery.co.uk
flavour
This months must do, buy & see...
Better Food
The Better Food Company knows you love your food. To celebrate the opening of its new food hall on Whiteladies Road and show its commitment to all things local, theyre offering you the chance to receive a free gourmet chefs bag (worth 4) when you order your first veg box. The produce comes straight from partnering Community Farm, the main grower of local organic veg. Just call 0845 617 1174 and mention flavour during November 2010. T: 01179 466957 W: www.betterfood.co.uk
Loves
Top Table
Jenny Barton Ceramics offer studiomade tableware for the discerning diner in a range of textured, unique designs. Each piece can be designed to your needs, with a colour wash of your choice to complement the ambience of your home or restaurant. Customers include Babington House, Shoreditch House, The Cowsheds at Clarendon Cross and Carnaby Street, London. T: 01373 452079 W: www.enigmapottery.co.uk
A taste of Spain!
Based in North Dorset, edeli specialises in sourcing and selling the highest quality Spanish foods. The latest product to make its way into the online store is a range of flavoured oils from Barcelona. Olives pressed with fresh ingredients, creating natural oils which are vibrant, fresh and bursting with flavour. Choose from lemon, orange, tangerine, coffee, garlic, rosemary, ginger and chilli exciting flavours to bring your cooking alive! Edeli also offer a wide range of hampers and Christmas gifts. Enter flavour when ordering to receive an exclusive 5% discount. T: 0845 003 5483 W: www.edelishop.co.uk
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Frozen Delights
Getting into the festive spirit, Mendip Moments is launching three limited edition flavours for the Christmas season. Try out their damson and sloe gin and Christmas pudding flavours which, in addition to their popular Amaretto, are the perfect alternative to brandy cream!The ice-cream is handmade on the family dairy farm in Somerset, using milk and cream from the pedigree herd of Holstein cows. The finest quality ingredients result in a luxurious, creamy extravaganza of flavour.
Win!
To celebrate the opening of the caf, Troughs are offering one lucky flavour reader lunch for two with a bottle of local organic wine. To win simply email: competitions@ flavourmagazine.com stating your name, address, phone number and where you got your copy of the magazine. Good luck!
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Bristol is alive and buzzing with an entrepreneurial spirit and plenty of get up and go. There are some great people doing great things; that in turn keeps the city on the move, alive and inspirational.
We have a lot to be proud of in the South West. We have a huge range of first class organic producers and fantastic agriculture thanks to the rich land that supports so much meat and dairy. Bristol in particular is alive and buzzing with an entrepreneurial spirit and plenty of get up and go. There are some great people doing great things; that in turn keeps the city on the move, alive and inspirational. People here are looking for something that supports the local economy, which is where The Better Food Company comes in. My sister Liz is very much a part of the Bristol food scene as is my brother Barney the three of us work very closely together. Liz runs the Folk House Caf on Park Street and Barney set up Bordeaux Quay. Our passion for food was instilled in us from childhood thanks to our parents whose backgrounds were both in hospitality. Every meal was eaten around a large table and we always found an excuse to celebrate good food and good wine. It doesnt seem to be a problem to fill my time right now! Ive been elected to sit on the Soil Association board, which I volunteer for. I also volunteer for the Community Farm in Chew Magna and am currently trying to get that off the ground by raising investment and making it a reality for 2011. Its a not-for-profit organisation owned by its members and now supplies the Better Food Company with its produce. It encourages people to participate in all aspects of growing and connects them back to the source of their food watch this space!
Better Food Company 94 Whiteladies Road, Clifton Bristol BS8 2QX 01179 466957 www.betterfood.co.uk www.thecommunityfarm.co.uk
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Facilities will include: A state of the art hydrotherapy pool A thermal suite which includes a sauna & steam room Relaxing foot spas Experience showers Beautiful treatment rooms offering [comfort zone] treatments A tness suite with Technogym equipment A stunning spa terrace overlooking the gardens Changing rooms with lockers and complimentary towels
DAY PACKAGES AMEMBERSHIPS, state of the art hydrotherapy pool A thermal suite which includes a sauna & steam room Relaxing foot spas Experience showers Beautiful treatment rooms offering [comfort zone] treatments A tness suite with Technogym equipment The Mount Somerset A stunning spa terrace overlooking Lower Henlade the gardens Somerset TA3 5NB Changing rooms with lockers and Telephone 01823 442500 complimentary towels
Fax 01823 442900 thespa@themountsomerset.co.uk
GOODFELLOWS
GOODFELLOWS @ HASKINS New Opening
NEW YEARS EVE DINNER 89 Celebrate in style at Goodfellows Enjoy Champagne, canaps, a sumptuous 5 course menu, then continue the party through to the New Year and beyond!
Goodfellows will be opening a new cafe within the Haskins department store in Shepton Mallet. The cafe will open from Monday 22nd November and will offer all the specialities of Goodfellows from breakfast to our famous 10 lunch, award-winning handmade cakes and great coffee.
5 SADLER STREET, WELLS, SOMERSET BA5 2RR TEL: 01749 673866 | EMAIL: GOODFELLOWS@BTCONNECT.COM
www.goodfellowswells.co.uk
The party season might come around every year, but thats no reason to stick to the usual offerings of sausage rolls and vol-au-vents. With these simple recipes from the nations favourite Anjum Anand, why not try something new and inspiring for your guests?
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Entertaining my way...
I have inherited my mothers entertaining style but have adapted it to be a little simpler and more practical for a modern way of life. My parties are smaller and I have less time than my mother did but my menu will still have a wonderful variety of vibrant colours, textures and flavours. There will always be rice and warm breads (some bought in, to achieve a good broad selection) and pickles...if I remember!
For the tandoori marinade 50g plain yogurt 6g fresh root ginger, peeled weight, grated into a paste 2 garlic cloves, grated into a paste 2 tsp gram flour 1 tsp paprika tsp chilli powder 1 tbsp vegetable oil tsp ground cumin tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp light crme frache For the wraps 2 small, skinless salmon fillets 810 even-sized baby gem lettuce leaves, washed and dried 2 tbsp capers A little finely shredded red cabbage (optional) For the topping 30g Greek yogurt 30g light crme frache 10g finely chopped onion 10g finely chopped fresh coriander
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For the marinade 15g fresh root ginger, peeled weight 4 fat garlic cloves 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp ground cumin 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tsp chilli powder tsp garam masala salt, to taste tsp freshly ground black pepper For the rolls 2 chicken breasts (around 160g each), cut into small cubes 400g packet ready-rolled puff pastry plain flour, to dust 2 small eggs, beaten 1 onion, sliced 1 large vine tomato, sliced into strips 1 x jar of chutney, your choice
1 Whizz together all the ingredients for the marinade with 2 tbsp water until smooth. Place the chicken in the marinade and leave for as long as possible (a minimum of one hour, or up to overnight in the fridge). 2 Using a 10cm bowl or saucer as a guide, cut out five circles from the pastry. Take one at a time and roll each out into thinner 15cm circles, using a little flour to help. Heat a non-stick frying pan, place in a pastry round, and cook until golden spots appear on the base (around 20 seconds), then turn over and cook the other side until golden. Meanwhile, spread a good layer of the egg over the upper surface, using a small spoon. Then flip and cook the egg side for 10 seconds. Take out and place on a plate. Repeat with the others. 3 Heat a saucepan, add the chicken and marinade and stir-fry for two or three minutes, or until you can see droplets of oil on the base of the pan. Add a splash of water (to deglaze the base) and the onion and cook for another minute or so until the chicken is done. Add the tomato, stir for 20 seconds, then remove from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning. 4 Taking one bread at a time, egg side up, spoon a line of the chicken mixture down the centre, then add a rounded tablespoon of chutney. Roll into a log and slice in half. 5 You can make these ahead, wrap the finished rolls in foil and reheat in the oven when you are ready to serve, but they will be a little softer.
Entertaining should be a pleasure. It is about showing love for your friends, having a good time and living life according to your own rules.
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Be in
Veeraswamy is one of the oldest Indian restaurants in The Bart range of Seasoning tins make the per the UK, having first opened its doors in 1926. With essential, ready to spice up your f the added ingredient expertise from Bart Spices, the With over 650 recipes available to do growing range of authentic Indian products promises sure you will find one to suit to be a taste sensation.
www.bartspices.com
www.bartspices.
Reader offer
Readers of flavour magazine can buy Anjum Anands I Love Curry at the special price of 9.99 (normally 17.99), with free p&p. To order, please call direct on 01256 302699 quoting reference 40C and your credit card details.
Puchkas
These are little taste bombs and I dont know anyone who doesnt love them. Small, crisp, hollow balls of semolina pastry are filled with potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, then both a sweet-and-sour and a herb chutney. They are topped with sev, which looks like fine yellow pieces of thread. This looks complicated, but is really easy and indescribably delicious.
Makes 20, enough for 45 people 1 For the tamarind chutney, place the tamarind, sugar and 6 tbsp water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for three minutes. Add the salt, pepper and tsp of roasted cumin powder (reserve the rest) and cook until the chutney is syrupy (another minute or two). You should have around 4 tbsp of chutney. If it becomes hard as it sits, loosen it with 1 tbsp boiling water. 2 Whisk the yogurt with a little salt, the chilli powder and reserved roasted cumin powder until smooth. Set aside. 3 Boil the potato in salted water until tender, then peel and cut into 1cm cubes. 4 Assemble the puchkas when you are ready to eat. You will find that the puris have a thicker, harder side and a thinner side it might not be so obvious at first, but when you tap both convex sides with your fingernail you will easily spot the thinner side. Break a 2.5cm hole in the thinner side with your finger. Fill each puri with a couple of chickpeas and a piece of potato. Spoon 1 tsp yogurt into each and top with tsp each of tamarind chutney and herb chutney. Sprinkle generously with the sev (if using) and serve immediately.
For the sweet-and-sour tamarind chutney 2 good tsp tamarind paste 3540g jaggery, chopped up, or 3 tbsp sugar tsp salt - tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 rounded tsp roasted cumin powder For the puchkas 200g plain yogurt, not too sour Salt, to taste Scant tsp chilli powder 100g potato 20 ready-made puris (sold as pani puris) 50g cooked chickpeas, rinsed Half a jar of herb chutney, your choice
You place the puchkas in your mouth whole and bite into an explosion of tastes and textures
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The BBC Good Food Show Winter has everything you need to create the perfect Christmas this year, so why not enjoy a day packed full of entertainment, inspiration and great shopping in the environment of a Good Food Show? The show is packed full of exhibitors, celebrity chefs and live demonstrations dedicated to the festive season so come along to the Show to enjoy a fabulous day out and pick up some tips to impress your guests this Christmas!
BBC Good Food Show Winter takes place between 24 28 November, NEC Birmingham. Call 0844 581 1360 to book tickets or visit bbcgoodfoodshow.com
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WIN!
To celebrate flavours 3rd birthday, the BBC Good Food Show Winter are giving 10 lucky flavour readers the chance to win a pair of tickets. For your chance to win simply email competitions@ flavourmagazine.com stating your name, address and phone number, or write to us at the usual address!
BIRTHDAY flavour
HAPPY rd
Terms and Conditions: Competition tickets are general admission only. Excluding Saturdays, they are non transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash.
Turn up t a e H e h t
Saucy Stuff
01773 880764 www.ricomexicankitchen.co.uk
Try these four scorching ideas to spice up any cold winters night
Chilli Chocolate
15 years ago saw the birth of James Chocolates, the first company in the UK to produce and sell chilli chocolate. Hot on the shelves this month are hot and spicy ginger and chilli truffles, a chilli pecan praline bar, sweet Thai chilli discs and the new firecracker bar. This Ecuadorian chocolate bar is made from 70% cocoa and is blended with fruity, slightly smokey ancho chillies and popping candy. The combination of bitter dark chocolate with warming chilli and explosive candy has been a real winner at taste tests! T: 01749 831330 W: www.jameschocolates.co.uk
Rico Mexican kitchen offers a delicious range of salsas, beans and cooking sauces perfect for adding fire and flavour to your dishes. Serve the true taste of Mexico with your favourite foods try jazzing up your morning eggs or as a cold dip with crunchy crudits. If you like it hot, try the Chipotle Xtra Hot Salsa or for little less fire, the more traditional Mole sauce. Products are available to order online or from Harrods and Selfridges.
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Chewton Glen
A luxury country house hotel set in 130 acres of Hampshire countryside and just a few minutes walk from the sea all seemed too good to be true, so this monthflavourset out in search of the jewel in the South Coasts crown...
Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa New Milton Hampshire BH25 6QS 01425 275 341 www.chewtonglen.com
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The combination of the hotels antique furnishings and sumptuous fabrics is true testament to English savoir faire
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green cooks
This autumn, sustainable Chilean winery Cono Sur is launching its Green Cooks Search, an online competition to find the UKs most environmentally-friendly home cook.
The competition highlights the affinity between Cono Sur and sustainable cooking by rewarding green cooks, a term coined by Cono Sur to describe those who produce food that not only matches Cono Sur wines in terms of taste, but also its sustainability ethos by using homegrown, organic or ethically sourced ingredients. The Chilean company has signed up top chefs known for their eco-cooking credentials to be on the judging panel, including Barny Haughton, Bristols very own award-winning chef and founder of the Bordeaux Quay restaurant and cookery school, the first restaurant in Europe to apply the principles of sustainable gastronomy throughout every aspect of the business. Barny has prepared his own sustainable recipes to inspire others to try out their eco-cooking skills; this sustainable and seasonal recipe for wild rabbit devised by Barny is delicious, so give it a try and get eco-cooking!
Braised wild rabbit with tagliatelle and an orange and marjoram gremolata
Wild rabbit opens a whole new world of culinary possibilities in terms of taste and value for money and its also a fantastic source of protein. This particular recipe is wonderfully rich, full of interesting and complementary flavours and is perfect for an autumn dinner party when wild rabbit is most widely available.
Serves 6 Ingredients 2 wild rabbits jointed into legs, saddle and shoulders 8 rashers of organic streaky bacon or pancetta, roughly chopped 1 carrot, peeled and chopped 1 celery stick, chopped 1 onion, peeled and chopped 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped 400g tin chopped tomatoes Small bunch thyme 2 bay leaves Half bottle (325ml) of red wine Butter Olive oil Salt and pepper 800g fresh tagliatelle For the gremolata 1 small bunch marjoram Zest of an orange 1 clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped Method 1 Season the rabbit pieces. 2 Heat a little oil in a heavy based casserole on the hob and add the rabbit pieces in batches. Cook on a medium heat, turning until browned. Remove and set aside. 3 Add the chopped vegetables and garlic to the casserole and sweat gently until softened and sweet. 4 Return the rabbit pieces, tomatoes, wine, thyme and bay leaves to the casserole and cook very gently until the meat is almost coming off the bone. 5 Remove from the heat and leave to cool in the liquor. 6 Once cool, remove the meat from the liquor, strain well and discard vegetables. 7 Return the strained liquor to a clean pan and cook gently, skimming as you go, until reduced to approximately half a pint. 8 Take the meat off the bone and discard
the bones. Chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. 9 Make the gremolata by chopping the marjoram and garlic together and mixing with the orange zest. To serve 1 Gently re-heat rabbit in reduced broth. Add a knob of butter. 2 Cook the tagliatelle and toss in a large bowl with a little more butter. Toss the pasta through the sauce and serve in pasta bowls with a sprinkling of gremolata but no Parmesan.
Wine match
Cono Sur Pinot Noir is the perfect wine match; the light gaminess of the rabbit, hints of orange and buttery sweetness in this sauce are beautifully balanced by the soft red fruits and gentle spice of this deliciously elegant wine.
The competition is open from 8th November at www.conosurgreencooks. com and will run for six weeks, with entrants invited to upload recipes, photos and videos of their green cooking exploits. The winner will be treated to a weekend away at The Victoria, an environmentally-friendly gastropub and guesthouse in West London.
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Festive Fizz
Fizz, glorious fizz! Was there ever a better sound than the popping of a Champagne cork? It would seem many agree. Despite the recession, in 2009 over 30 million bottles were imported into the UK Champagnes biggest export market. And whilst this represented a decline on the year before, sales of other sparkling wines continue to grow steadily. Our love affair with the fizzy stuff is far from over. For those who partake in a glass at every opportunity, Christmas is a great excuse to indulge even more. And for others who keep themselves in a tight ration for fear of overindulgence, surely at Christmas we should all toast one anothers good health with a glass of the good stuff? But why does Champagne have the reputation and price tag that it does? There are many reasons for this. For a start, its a marketers dream. Champagne the brand is a worldwide success synonymous with luxury, wealth and unashamed excess. For a (relatively) small price tag, the average consumer gets a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous. So, demand starts to outstrip supply which in turn pushes the price up further. The Champagne region in North East France is one of the most northerly wine growing regions in the world. The harsh winter conditions add to the quality of the wines but also add to the cost of production. To add to this, the grapes in Champagne must be hand harvested which is labour intensive and costly. And to top it all off, the minimum ageing time allowed for Champagne is three years which ties up an enormous amount of cash flow. Its a good job the liquid itself is pretty amazing stuff after all this. Whats more amazing still is the diversity of flavours in different styles of Champagne. Lets go on a whistle-stop tour with a few seriously good examples.
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Wine columnist Clare Morris has over 10 years experience in the drinks industry, consulting with hotels, restaurants, pubs and bars across the UK. She is currently studying for a Diploma at the WSET London Wine and Spirit School.
We start with Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve NV a gorgeous, richly flavoured Champagne. Non vintage Champagnes are made from a blend of two or more vintages and they are deliberately made to be consistent from year to year. The wine makers add a large percentage of older reserve wines, plus four years ageing, to contribute to the flavour. Charles Heidsieck was voted best value Champagne producer in 2008 and I couldnt agree more. Try it at the Hare Restaurant in Lambourn Woodlands near Hungerford a lovely match for scallops or salmon fillet. And check out their Christmas party menu it looks divine. www.theharerestaurant.co.uk Laurent-Perrier Cuve Ros Brut is perhaps the most iconic of Ros Champagnes. This is partly due to the method used in making the wine. LaurentPerrier choose to honour the traditional method of ros production by allowing the skins of the red grapes to come into contact with the wine for a brief period of 3 days (most ros Champagnes are made by adding a little red wine to the finished white wine). This saignee method means the colour changes in each and every batch produced. A great match for poultry, the new season grouse at the Lakeside Park Hotel on the Isle of Wight would be a great choice. Personally though, I would hold out for the strawberry parfait with basil foam and balsamic sorbet. LaurentPerrier Ros is an extraordinary match for red fruit desserts. Enjoy while looking out across the view in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. www.lakesideparkhotel.com Vintage Champagnes are only made in exceptional years, and all of the grapes that go into the Champagne must come from that year. Supply is therefore limited which pushes up prices. Its worth paying extra for though, as you are guaranteed a more intense and diverse taste experience. Piper-Heidsieck Vintage 2000 gets my vote in this category. If you like the biscuity flavours of Champagne youll find them in abundance here. Wonderful with food but for sheer indulgence enjoy it on its own at Prive, a plush new style bar in the centre of Bristol, decorated in an opulent purple and gold. For extra decadence, try the Piper from one of the limited edition Christian Louboutin crystal stilettos part of the Piper Le Ritual a traditional gallant ritual involving drinking Champagne from the shoe of ones favourite courtesan. www.privebristol.com Blanc de Blancs Champagne translates as white from white and refers to a white wine being produced solely from white grapes Chardonnay. This creates a light bodied Champagne, with real finesse. Ruinart describes it as their hardest wine to make due to the austerity of the grape itself. By using exceptional premier cru site vineyards and taking time to capture the essence of chardonnay, its richness and roundness, it is then aged and sold in its traditional 18th century flacon Champenois shaped bottle. At Cadbury House Hotel in Congresbury youll be able to sit back and enjoy a few in the newly refurbished Marco Pierre White restaurant perhaps as a partner to the dressed crab. www.cadburyhotelbristol.co.uk We couldnt have a review of the Champagne category without a peek at the top end of the range. Krug Grand Cuve Brut is from one of the most famous Champagne houses, although you would probably never guess this from its relatively humble offices in the back streets of Reims. A very different style to the Ruinart, this is a Pinot dominated blend, and aged for six years is almost certainly the finest nonvintage sparkling wine in the world. At Guy Ritchies pub The Punchbowl in London, Krug have been running a Thank Krug its Friday promotion throughout the summer, celebrating the exquisite food matching of Krug with fish and chips. Experience the taste sensation for yourself at the Fish House in Chilgrove, or experiment with one of their fantastic creations from the crustacean counter and oyster bar. www.thefishhouse.co.uk
With all the extra cost factors in making Champagne, its not always possible to reach for a prestige cuve on a Tuesday night. Thankfully, there are some great quality alternatives to Champagne from around the world. Probably the most famous of all New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs, Cloudy Bays Pelorus NV (a sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir) is also worth writing home about. With all the biscuity flavours you would associate with Champagne, its a suitably indulgent experience thats good value enough to perhaps tempt you for a second. Try at the Victoria Hotel in Sidmouth, in between a programme of spa treatments as an aperitif either alone or with some wafer-light canaps. www.brend-hotels.co.uk/ thevictoria/luxurydining Our last wine is one thats bang on trend Fantinels Prosecco Extra Dry NV. Strangely the Extra Dry description tells us that the wine is slightly less dry than its Brut counterparts. This is one of my favourite Tuesday night wines enjoy a spot of great value indulgence with some good comfort food. Try it at the Ship & Castle in Congresbury, just down the road from Cadbury House Hotel, with either the Mezze platter or King Prawn Thai Curry. Sit down in a high-backed armchair and relax. www.shipandcastle.com
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* UnDeR new OwneRShip * from the people who brought you The Marlborough Tavern
10 lunch offer - any starter & main from our bar menu for just 10.
The Chequers | 50 Rivers St | Bath | BA1 2QA T 01225 360017 W thechequersbath.com E reservations@thechequersbath.com Open 7 days / week. Lunch: Mon-Sun, Dinner: Mon-Sat Sunday lunch served till 4pm 28
see here!
The new project that I am involved with in Cardiff is well under way and seems to be taking up the bulk of my time. The more I put in now the easier it should be come the re-opening day in January. All a tad hush-hush at the mo but will keep you informed as and when. I managed to squeeze in a week of demonstrations at the NECs recent International Caravan and Motor Home Exhibition, cooking one pot outdoorsy stuff. Ive never seen so many caravans, it was like driving down to Porlock on a Saturday in July! The show saw an amazing turnout of people defying the recession in the first three days alone I heard that three juggernaut like motor homes were sold at a cost of 28,300 each. Closer to home in Bath, I was asked by the lovely people at Specsavers to be part of their birthday celebrations and cut the cake with them. And a jolly good cake it was too. Ive been a customer for a while now as its glasses for work and contacts for TV vanity or what? Before the contacts it was all a blur and I used to try to fumble my way through the gigs. Enough was enough however when after criss-cross scoring some squid with an ultra sharp Japanese knife, I noticed the tips of my fingers change to a rich claret and felt a searing pain. This months recipe is a tasty one pot wonder that can be cooked through and served and reheated the following day to save time and we all know how the caravan needs as long as possible to get from A to B!
He might be a chef with a keen eye for detail, but this month Martin Blunos confesses to a secret kitchen aid...
One of the South Wests most talented chefs, Martin Blunos was born and brought up near Bath, his parents having come to England from Latvia just after the Second World War. He has held two Michelin stars for more than 15 years and appears regularly on television and radio with regular slots as guest chef on BBC1s Saturday Kitchen with James Martin, BBC Market Kitchen, ITV Daily Cooks and ITVs Saturday Cooks.
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N AT URAL I N
100
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DIE NTS
NATURAL I
Quality beer from Sharps Brewery the perfect Christmas gift! Visit our brewery shop in Rock or online at www.sharpsbrewery.co.uk to buy award winning bottled beer, poly boxes, mini kegs, clothing and gifts.
Sharps beers are brewed using just four natural ingredients Cornish water, British malted barley, whole hop flowers and yeast.
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RE D I E NT S
Ask a chef
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Ronnie Faulkner
onnie Faulkner is the owner-chef of Ronnies Restaurant in Thornbury. Ronnie has had a distinguished career working in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the UK and Europe, for celebrated chefs such as Anton Mosimann and Ed Baines. Cooking for national and foreign royalty and dignitaries honed Ronnies skill and further reinforced his lifelong commitment to food. His menus showcase the best local produce, earning the restaurant its title as the Good Food Guides Restaurant of the Year. Ronnies is based in Thornbury and is open Tuesday-Sunday. Lunches and coffees are available from 10am-3pm and evening meals are available from 6.30pm-11pm. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Q. I love chestnuts at this time of year, what can I pair them with? Julie Dixon, Bristol A. Chestnut season starts from late September and goes through to the end of December. I enjoy them freshly roasted from a street vendor with a glass of mulled wine, but they work fantastically well with most of our autumnal meats or baked with chocolate into a gateaux. I have them on the menu with roasted rump of lamb garnished with spiced red cabbage, apples poached in mulled wine and confit shallots.
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Q. Im having a bonfire night party and need to feed a crowd on a budget please help! Nathaniel Brawn, Clevedon A. Bonfire nights are traditionally cold and the fare needs to be warming, comforting and hearty. I would suggest a braised shin of beef with butter beans. Beef shin is a relatively cheaper cut, you should pay no more than 6.25 a kilo. Simply season the meat and colour it in a hot pan. Pop it into a casserole dish with carrots, onions, celery, a splash of red wine, garlic and thyme, cover it with water and bake it for a few hours on a moderate heat until tender. Soak the butter beans over night and add them to the casserole two hours into the cooking. Serve it with crusty bread or mashed potatoes
Q. One pot dinners are myfavouritetype of cooking but my new girlfriend is a vegetarian. What can I make thats just as satisfying to impress her? Charles Randall, Frome A. As well as being in season, butternut squash is one of my favourite vegetables and makes a beautiful risotto. The only drawback is the risotto should be constantly stirred on top of the stove, rather than cooking it in the oven like traditional stews and casserole. Finish the risotto with loads of Parmesan and drizzle a sage butter over the top.
Q. Can you suggest a delicious sauce I can cook mussels with? James Gale, Chipping Sodbury A. Its the classics that have stood the test of time and there is no finer example than the moules marinire. The sauce is made from the essence of the mussel, wine and cream. Add finely diced shallots to a pan with a knob of butter and sweat. Once the shallots are soft, add the mussels, a generous glass of wine and a clove or two of crushed garlic, cover with a lid and steam for about 3-6 minutes. The mussels are cooked when theyve opened. To finish add cup of double cream and some chopped parsley. I recommend cooking with a bottle of Gavi di Tassarolo spare a little for the pan and enjoy the rest!
If you have a culinary query for Ronnie, write to us at the usual address or email info@flavourmagazine.com
AT THE BRASSERIE
www.lucknampark.co.uk
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hartley farm
Hartley Farm Shop will be kicking off Christmas in style once again with its third Christmas Fayre on Saturday 27 November from 10am to 4pm.
The farm shop, based in Winsley just outside of Bath, will be showcasing some of its fantastic local suppliers by inviting them to the farm for the day to show and sample their wares. The Christmas Fayre provides a great opportunity for everyone to come together and meet some of the finest local producers and quiz them on their food as well as hopefully providing some inspiration for all cooks with this years festive season, which is fast approaching. The event promises to be a real treat with lots to eat and drink on offer, activities for the kids and a chance to meet some local food heroes such as Ivy House Farm, local charity Jamies Farm, Quoins Organic Vineyard and Marshfield Ice Cream to name but a few. Christmas order forms will also be available from the shop from midNovember. From the butchery this year will be free-range bronze turkeys from the Cotswolds, free range pork, beef and lamb all sourced from the farm or within a few miles. There will also be a fantastic selection of locally made artisan cheeses as well as a few classics from further afield for a truly indulgent Christmas. The caf serves freshly ground seasonal coffees throughout the day as well as mouth-watering
cakes and treats and a warming winter lunch menu to provide some retreat and help you recharge those batteries. Hartley Farm Winsley Bradford on Avon Wiltshire BA15 2JB 01225 864948 www.hartley-farm.co.uk
Receive
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Food will never become mundane as long as those with a flair for reinvention keep up the good work. Thats why we love Andrew Perns refreshing take on game just as much as the exalted Michel Roux Senior modern British at its best...
Beautiful Game
The sight of roe deer, pheasants and partridge feeding together on a crisp carpet of virgin snow beside our pond at Bank House instantly grabbed my imagination as a child and has stayed with me ever since. At that moment, my love affair with loose birds and game began. Loose Birds & Game delivers a fresh approach to the often dark and dismal autumnal and winter dishes normally associated with game. Ruddy cheeks and red noses are replaced with the virtues of low traceable fat in venison, the rarity of being able to eat grouse as a stew, salads that will be the envy of every Knightsbridge restaurant, with ladies that lunch, to snacks that the kids will devour and, to keep everyone happy, theres even a tipple for granddad. Ive always wanted to showcase the heritage and versatility of game as part of what defines my idea of British-ness, but in a light and informative way. Its amazing how easy it is to find local game and even some loose birds, if you are prepared to look in the right places; try your local butchers, farmers markets or the ye olde country-type shoppe and take advantage of searching online. Its like anything in life, if you dont ask, you dont get!
Andrew Pern is owner and Head Chef of the remarkable Star Inn at Harome, one of the very first pubs to achieve Michelin Star status and is still one of only ten pubs in the UK ever to receive a Michelin Star. Andrew is pictured here with Michel Roux Senior, who has also written the foreword for his latest book.
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Smoked pheasant, savoy cabbage and beetroot terrine with walnut and quince dressing
For me, the rich colours and textures of this terrine are autumn on a plate. The terrine ingredients are first cooked to perfection, then it is set and pressed in a gelatinous game stock. Its a complex recipe, but well worth all the hassle.
Serves 4 Ingredients For the terrine 6 cold-smoked pheasant breasts 6 large savoy cabbage leaves, blanched 2 large beetroot, cooked and peeled and cut into 1cm discs 2 gelatine leaves 200ml duck fat 250g butter For the dressing 75g walnuts, chopped 1 quince, diced into small pieces 2 tsp grain mustard 50ml walnut oil 10g caster sugar 15ml white wine vinegar seasoning To garnish Fresh garden herbs Method 1 Line a buttered terrine mould with clingfilm. Place cabbage leaves into the mould to create a second lining. Heat the duck fat in a heavy-bottomed pan, keeping at a temperature of 100-130C. Place the pheasant breast into the fat and cook for 1 hour. Slice each breast into 3 and keep warm. 2 Soak the leaf gelatine in cold water. Heat the butter and add the soaked gelatine, whisking until the mixture emulsifies. Dip the pheasant breast pieces into the butter/gelatine mixture and place a layer into the terrine. Repeat the process with the beetroot, then with the pheasant breast again, the beetroot, and so on. Place another layer of clingfilm over the terrine and press overnight.
To make the dressing Mix the white wine vinegar with the sugar, until the sugar dissolves, add the mustard and whisk in the oil. Add the walnuts and chopped quince. When ready to serve, slice the terrine and place a slice in the centre of the plate, drizzle the dressing around and garnish with fresh garden herbs.
Andrew Perns Loose Birds & Game is published by Face Publications. Available from 8 December. RRP 39.99
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kitchen garden
When we took over Combe House, we inherited a wild child garden all flowers, shrubs and lawns (well, long grass and moss really.) Included were some spectacular specimen trees, a couple of very broken greenhouses and a Victorian collection of potting sheds... and gardener Charlie OReilly, a left wing, slightly anarchic man of letters with twinkling eyes and a very ready sense of vicious Scottish humour. The gardens today are a reflection of Combe House as a Hotel and our collective thoughts about life. There are now four of us working in the gardens with Charlie being here 26 out of the 944 years that Combe has been a dwelling. The greenhouses have been rebuilt and are now the crucible for all the seed trays and summer soft herbs and salads. Potting sheds have been restored and are the store for tools, seeds, coats and boots, and the scene of frantic potting and tea making in spring. The walled garden has been cleared of wild cherry, oak, ash and understorey and today the original raised beds and cold frames have been double dug and manured. We dont garden in straight lines or have monogamous beds, rather, we work out what we will need of a particular fruit or vegetable, sow or plant it and surround the plot with marigolds, tagetese, parsley, nicotiniana or dwarf sunflowers. This gives colour, definition, and some pest relief.
This month Ken Hunt, owner of Combe House in Devon offers his seasonal tips for harvesting and growing in November.
We end up with a wonderful patchwork of colour and shades that feeds the soul as well as the body. Everything is in a three year rotation, we use no artificial stuff, only manure, compost and our own natural pesticides. We have good years and not so good years, like everyone. But we have great fun and feel very privileged to be able to work so close to nature. Our aim is to provide the kitchens and our guests with the best possible quality of seasonal fruit and vegetables. We get a little better at it each year, but we dont want to get there too quickly, after all, we are still very young. T: 01404 540400 W: www.combehousedevon.com
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In 2008 Combe House planted orchards and soft fruit gardens and re-introduced the famous Tom Putt apple formerly a staple product of the West Country cider industry.
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Divine Cafe
by Jill Jesshope, Wiltshire
My absolute favourite place to eat during the day is Divine Cafe, a Wiltshire roadside eatery par excellence! Situated on the A4 just west of Avebury, it nestles beneath rolling down land and the White Horse at Cherhill. The cafe is the family run business of Mark and Jane Slingo, whose aim is to provide an alternative to the standard roadside fare by offering home cooked, healthy food with mouthwatering and freshly baked cakes. Jane is a cook with no formal training, just a passion for cooking and sharing food, passed down in the tradition of her family. The sign outside the cafe which reads Probably the best coffee and cakes in Wiltshire should read Definitely for Ive certainly had no better. Just thinking about Janes Lemon Mascarpone Cake with a cup of smooth, freshly ground pure Arabica coffee lifts my spirits! Approaching the cafe, especially at weekends, the various modes of transport outside reflect the eclectic clientele. In the light, cosy interior I can find myself sitting next to cyclists, bikers or walkers, or other locals like myself who have come for the warmth of the welcome, the consistently good service and the deliciousness of the food.
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Reader
Review
The cafe and its menu (which is very flexible) have a distinct Continental flavour. For example Croque Monsieur; a Parisienne-style ham and cheese melt with Dijon mustard, salad and coleslaw. Another personal favourite to get the taste buds tickled is Bruscetta; available with various toppings drizzled with garlic infused oil on sour dough bread. What choices! For the more traditional palete there is a variety of delicious, freshly prepared sandwich platters or a choice of colourfully presented dishes using Wiltshires famous ham with accompanying locally sourced salads. For the sugar lover, there are the cakes often fresh from the oven, or the well crafted desserts. On sunny, warm enough days, there is ample seating outside under the pleasant pergola. On cooler weekends, there can be a wait for inside seating but its certainly worth waiting for. My one dissatisfaction is that this very special cafe is not open seven days a week! However I think Divine Cafe speaks for itself and is one of the very best around. For the discerning traveller, I heartily recommend it.
Divine Cafe The White Horse Cherhill, Wiltshire 01249 817348 07922 661 201 enquiries@divinecafe.biz
Tell us about your favourite place to eat by writing to us at the usual address or emailing faye@flavourmagazine.com Well even give you oneyears free subscription for your troubles!
Mount Somerset
This month Faye Allen takes a trip to Taunton for some relaxation time in a Regency country house thats recently undergone a face-lift
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uilt by an Italian architect in the early 19th century, this Regency country house has secured a reputation for both its elegant touch and country comfort, placing it as Tauntons best-kept secret. For the last 20 years von Essen, one of the most successful independent hotel chains in the world, has been running this country gem with a focus on keeping tradition at its heart. Last year however saw the beginning of a huge internal refurbishment for Mount Somerset with an addition of eight new rooms to their modest collection of 11 and a brand new spa with treatment rooms. The responsibility of the re-design fell to Kerry Chapman, von Essens chief British designer. Her approach was modern elegance with a touch of the majestic, coupled with gentle, calming colour schemes. A midweek stay meant that we practically had the place to ourselves. This was excellent news when it came to exploring the newly built Garden Spa. All well mannered English reserve could be abandoned in order for every button to be pressed and chamber explored. Before I could let my inner child run riot, I laid back to enjoy the Mount Somersets signature treatment collection, a Peaceful Earth Facial and the Peaceful Earth Body Cocoon. Exclusive to the hotel, these treatments promise to deliver one on a peaceful journey to calm the mind and nurture the body. The body cocoon began with a full body exfoliation, followed by an antioxidant warm oil massage. The treatment was a welcomed experience and indeed my skin felt nourished and supple for a couple of days afterwards. The facial was intended for peace of mind and joy of skin. For a shortterm relaxation fix, this is a treatment you may very well enjoy. Afterwards my skin was glowing and any stress from the day had literally been massaged away. An indulgent treat to be enjoyed for what it is but dont expect a weeks worth of skin benefits. All products were taken from the comfort zone, sacred nature range. The spa space itself is intimate, with every neatly designed facility in place. Contained within is a sauna, jacuzzi, foot spa, steam room, plunge bucket and my favourite, the Experience Shower. Here you can
surround yourself with monkeys, parrots or grasshoppers, multiple lights and even a couple of temperatures. The spa opens up to the sun terrace where you can relax with your robes on and enjoy a drink and a moment on the sun loungers. Seeing as my stay fell on a night where the essential ingredient to a sun terrace was missing however, I opted for the room instead. We stayed in the Pitminster Garden Deluxe, a newly built room near the back of the hotel. This would be a perfect choice for a sunnier time as it boasts its own private terrace accompanied with hot tub, sun loungers and table and chairs and is also home to the hotels resident peacock. The room itself can be enjoyed for its autumnal colours, super King Size bed, roll top bath, power shower and thick and soft bathrobes. Combining comfort and practicality, this room offered a very pleasant stay, despite some very confusing light switches! The hotels restaurant boasts two rosettes and Head Chef Stephen Walker has shown a real determination to bring the restaurants
food back to what is local and fresh, making regular seasonal changes almost on a daily basis. The fillet of aged English beef with confit potato, spinach and baby carrots, Dorset Blue Vinney beignet and red wine reduction was the high point of the dining experience. Rich and full of flavour, this fillet was cooked to rare perfection, narrowly pipping my dinner guests sweet and juicy scallops to the post. We left the Mount Somerset feeling reassured that while von Essen is an increasingly influential collection of hotels, Mount Somerset offers a truly unique experience that would make its Italian forbearer proud.
The Mount Somerset Lower Henlade Taunton Somerset TA3 5NB T: 01823 442500 W: www.mountsomersethotel.co.uk
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Barnsley House
Take the winding pathway through the wilderness garden, descend the steps to the Garden Spa, and from your first step inside youll start to unwind. The spa is fully equipped with five treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna, relaxation room and heated outside hydrotherapy pool.
Signature treatment The Garden Spa Signature Treatment provides a hint of what to expect from The Garden Spa and leading essential oils specials, Aromatherapy Associates, at full tilt together. Designed to reflect the stunning grounds at Barnsley and bring the outside in, the treatment includes a full body polish, aromatherapy massage and facial with scalp massage. This allencompassing therapy works on all aspects of stress within the body and encourages complete relaxation, easing away tension using the power of pure essential oils. The Garden Spa experience gives you the opportunity to enjoy a morning, afternoon or evening in the spa. Details Garden Spa Signature Treatment 115 mins, 140.00. Spa Experience, 110.00 Lunch Lunch at Barnsley House is also a real treat. The Garden menu incorporates fruit and vegetables grown in the kitchen gardens at Barnsley House. Dishes include Cara potato soup with fried porcini mushroom; duck terrine with quince jelly and granary toast; whole roasted partridge, baked russet apple, truffle potato & bacon; pumpkin crme brle with sable biscuits and marmalade.
Bath Priory
The Bath Priorys Garden Spa is befitting of a luxury country house hotel. The indoor heated pool is beautiful and a poolside sauna and elliptical steam pod complete the picture. As the name suggests, French doors open onto the immaculate gardens, allowing the sunlight to wash over this dreamy space.
Signature treatment The Garden Spa offers a diverse range of relaxing therapies, performed in one of four serene treatment rooms, including a dual treatment room, perfect for couples or friends. In October 2010 the Garden Spa became the first hotel spa in the UK to launch glotherapeutics, a new line of facial exfoliation treatments. The signature treatment in this exciting range, developed by the spas experienced Head Therapist, is The Renewal, a treatment dedicated purely to delivering amazing results first time and every time. Experience a tailormade exfoliation for the face and hands, followed by a blend of plant extracts and essential vitamins to nurture the skin. To complete the treatment enjoy an Indian face and scalp massage, accompanied by a mini hand peel and massage. This is an invigorating therapy for those who wish to entirely rejuvenate their skin and wind back the years. Lunch Following the tranquility of the Garden Spa, enjoy superb dining in The Priory Restaurant. The seasonal menus offer dishes including pan-fried fillet of Cornish line cod with saffron noodles and passion fruit souffl with yoghurt sorbet.
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Details 1hr and 20 mins, 100. Lunch is 25.50 for two courses, three courses are 32.00 The Bath Priory Hotel, Restaurant & Spa Weston Road Bath BA1 2XT T: 01225 478395 W: www.thebathpriory.co.uk gardenspa@thebathpriory.co.uk
Lunch If you want to keep things healthy then why not unwind in our restaurant and enjoy steamed fillet of black bream stuffed with ginger, lemon and crispy vegetables with lemon balm beurre blanc and matchstick potatoes, or a pink grapefruit and rocket salad with Granny Smith apple, locally sourced Bath blue cheese and toasted pine nuts.
Thermae Bath Spa Hot Bath Street Bath BA1 1SJ T: 0844 888 0844 W: www.thermaebathspa.com
Charlton House
The Bannatyne Spa at Charlton House is a unique and luxurious place to visit for those who wish to soothe their mind and soul, relax and recuperate and leave feeling rejuvenated. Whether its to relax and unwind, celebrate with friends or simply indulge in some me time, theres a Bannatyne Pamper Spa Day for you.
Signature treatment Our New Dry Flotation Spa Day is something not to be missed. The ultimate in personal pampering an hour in the dry flotation tank will leave you completely relaxed and is the equivalent to three hours deep sleep. This luxurious indulgence consists of dry skin brushing, followed by your own choice of one of four wraps. Choose from the Tahitian Bloom which offers deep cleansing and an invigorating exotic lime and ginger salt glow. With the Tropical Milk Treat you can choose between a nourishing foot or hand treatment.For complete muscle relaxation then choose the seaweed wrap, or to detox the system opt for the Cellutox Aroma Spa Ocean Float. As part of the package you will also have access to the Hydrotherapy Pool, Crystal Steam Room, Experience Showers, Finnish Sauna, Laconium, Ice Fountain and Fitness Studio! Lunch Once having relaxed in the spa, why not take lunch in the conservatory. The newly appointed Executive Head Chef, Duncan McKay and his brigade expertly create menus that change seasonally, prepared with the best locally sourced produce. Enjoy oak smoked salmon, orange and fennel salad, a trio of Bixham market Details Cost 99, Time: 1hr 15 mins 2 courses- 11.95, 3 courses- 15.95
fish with roast vine tomatoes and lemon dressing and finish off with coconut tart and passion fruit syrup.
Bannatynes Charlton House Shepton Mallet nr Glastonbury Somerset BA4 4PR T: 01749 342008 W: www.bannatyne.co.uk
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Whatley Manor
Aquarias the award-winning spa at Whatley Manor offers a tempting and luxurious selection of spa experiences with the aim of restoring both body and mind to new levels of relaxation.The European-style spa is arranged into a series of thermal cabins, treatment rooms and VIP Suite, as well as having a gym, work-out studio complete with a Power Plate and a stylish hydrotherapy pool.
Signature treatment The Iyashi Dme Ritual starts and ends with gentle relaxation in The Tepidarium and the Wave Dream Sensory Room. Following an initial consultation and body composition, lay back and relax cocooned in The Iyashi Dme which begins with a deep cleansing session. Without any aggressive effect on the body, this 30 minute programme eliminates toxins.The Dme purifies and re-balances the body to its natural state of equilibrium, can aid with slimming and is a perfect post work-out treatment. Lunch Light lunch options include a selection of freshly made paninis served with French
Details 55 for an initial consultation and 30 minute session. A recommended course of ten sessions may be booked at 500. fries (10.00), warming soups (8.00) and salads like the salt water prawns bound with mayonnaise scented with tarragon and served with warm blinis and crme fraiche (18.00). Alternatively a Greek salad with green olives, green beans, feta cheese, tomato and romaine lettuce bound with olive oil (10.50). Freshly churned icecreams, cakes and Wiltshire cream teas are available too.
Whatley Manor Easton Grey Malmesbury Wiltshire SN16 0RB T: 01666 822 888 W: www.whatleymanor.com
organic ingredients from local suppliers wherever possible. Healthy Lunch Menu Samples Sprouted chickpea salad, carrot shavings, mint, winter leaves, chilli & garlic dressing 6.25 Warmed smoked mackerel, beetroot, watercress, toasted seeds, lemon & black pepper dressing 7.95 Organic salmon & watercress fishcakes, soft herb crme fraiche, fresh lime 9.50 Winter Fresh Fruit Platter 5.75
includes a healthy selection of exciting salads, sandwiches, freshly cooked hot dishes and homemade desserts. The Malvern sources the highest quality Details Book 5 sessions get the 6th free, or book 10 sessions and get the next two free
The Malvern Grovewood Road Malvern, WR14 1GD T: 01684 898 290 W: www.themalvernspa.com
you may prefer the focus to be on easing injured, tense or aching muscles. If you have any special requirements for your treatment please let us know at the time of booking. Details Cost: 45 Length: 1 hour
Lucknam Park
Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa is one of the UKs leading country house hotels located in a 500 acres estate just 6 miles east of Bath. The Spas contemporary design, wood, marble and glass reflect the stunning setting of Lucknam Park Hotel.
Signature treatment This December, admire the frosty Wiltshire landscape from the warm cocooning haven of The Spa at Lucknam Park. Whether for an escape from Christmas shopping, an early Christmas treat, or a welcome alternative to a Christmas party, the Festive Spa Day package at Lucknam Park is the perfect antidote to the manic month of December. Relax with a coffee and mince pie on arrival, then experience the stunning spa facilities; the 20 metre swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, experience showers, and thermal cabins. The luxurious hour long treatment that follows is your choice of an Anne Semonin Phyto-Aromatic Facial, a Made-to-Measure Massage, a Carita Radiance Facial or a De-Stress Botanical and Herbal Back Therapy. Lunch Your day also includes a two course festive lunch from the seasonal menu created by award-winning Chef Hrishikesh Desai in the contemporary and stylish Brasserie adjoining The Spa. And we give you a glass of wine!
Details 125 per person, available 1-23 Dec, Mon-Fri. Lunch is included in the price
Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa Colerne Chippenham Wiltshire SN14 8AZ T: 01225 740 570 W: www.lucknampark.co.uk
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from the
earth...
Introducing our warming new winter menu at The Living Room Bristol
Our new winter menu perfectly captures the flavours of the season... ...its the quality and value that's preserved
name email
If you'd rather not be the first to hear about other exclusive offers, up and coming events and brand new menus then let us know by ticking the box.
www.thelivingroom.co.uk
Introductory offer, valid until 30th 2010. Valid at Living The Living Room Bristol Valid Sunday - Thursday 12pm - 7pm only. Valid in conjunction with the main a la carte menu Introductory offer, valid until 30thNovember November 2010. Valid at The Room Bristol only. Valid only. Sunday - Thursday from 12pm - 7pmfrom only.Valid in conjunction with the main a la carte menuonly. 46 essential and subject to availability. Maximum booking size of four people.Voucher must be submitted to redeem this offer. 30% off the total food bill only. Booking only. Booking essential and subject to availability. Maximum booking size of four people. Voucher must be submitted to redeem this offer. 30% off the total food bill only. Cannot be used in Cannot be used inconjunction with any other offer. Cannot be used on any special events. Not valid for Christmas Party bookings. Photocopied, damaged or defaced vouchers cannot be accepted. conjunction with any other offer. Cannot be used on any special events. Not valid for Christmas Party bookings. Photocopied, damaged or defaced vouchers cannot be accepted.
The Three Horseshoes is a 400-year-old country pub tucked away in the beautiful Somerset village of Batcombe, with easy access to Bruton, The Royal Bath and West Showground and only 40 minutes from Bath and Bristol. Open to all, we welcome drinkers, foodies, walkers, dogs and children. Whether it be a quick pint and a pork pie in the bar or a three course dinner in our stunning dining room, you can be sure of a friendly welcome. Attentive service and knowledgeable staff will ensure you have the best possible time, regardless of how long you stay.
le M A Z O T
brasserie
at Whatley Manor
Pre-Festive A La Carte Menu Served from 1st 24th December. Starters from 7.50. Mains from 16.50. Desserts from 8.50 Festive Menu for Christmas Parties 36 includes three-course la carte menu with crackers and coffee Christmas Eve Dinner 79 Champagne and canap reception, four-course candlelit dinner with coffee and Florentine Christmas Day Lunch 98 Glass of Champagne with savoury pastries served at the table and followed by a traditional five-course lunch with Christmas crackers and coffee New Years Eve Dinner 140 Champagne and canap reception, six-course gala dinner and live jazz 26th December and 1st January 2011 36 includes three-course table dhote menu and coffee 3rd January 2011 26 includes three-course Bank Holiday lunch menu Call Events on 01666 834 026 or email events@whatleymanor.com to make your Christmas reservations. Early booking is recommended
Le Mazot at Whatley Manor Easton Grey Malmesbury Wiltshire SN16 0RB T 01666 822 888 E lemazot@whatleymanor.com
BathChristmas Market
Its that time of year again. In the heart of Baths main shopping district, 123 traditional wooden chalets full of everything youll need to prepare for the perfect Christmas, will adorn the cobbled streets.
To celebrate its tenth anniversary, the market will be held for an extra week ensuring you have a bit more time to find the perfect gift for your loved ones. And, what a choice you will have. If you are looking for something extra special to make your Christmas perfect, Bath Christmas Market is the place youll find it. All of the retailers sell unique, handcrafted items, many of which are made in the local area. The sound of choirs singing carols drifting through the market, colourful decorations brightening the streets and aromas of mulled wine and cinnamon in the air all create a magical atmosphere and will help to get you in the festive spirit! If youre a firm believer that food always tastes better outdoors and never more so than on a crisp winters day, then you will be able to satisfy your taste buds and give yourself an extra boost of shopping energy with the delicious fare on offer. Pick up a hot dog made from British pork and speciality sausages all wrapped up in a freshly made bread roll at Supreme Sausages or perhaps a freshly cooked
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crepe from Suzettes Pancakes will satisfy your sweet or your savoury tooth. Fairtrade coffees and teas, mulled cider and flavoured coffees can be sampled as well as a mouth-watering selection of cheeses, chocolates and much, much more. A full programme of entertainment will be taking place including carol singers, childrens entertainers and musicians. To accommodate the high demand, there will be three performance areas where you can take a break from the bustling crowds to soak up the atmosphere. Fast becoming known as the Christmas city, let Baths well-loved market do all of the hard work, making your Christmas the best and most effortless yet.
Bath Christmas Market takes place between 25 November 12 December, visit www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk for more information.
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For the last two months, Jennie Clark has been anticipating the opening of The Swallow Bakery in Cheltenham. With pale pink signs and floor-to-ceiling windows all round, it looks like the perfect destination for a mid-morning stop or afternoon tea
Cupcake specialities include Red Velvet with deep burgundy ice-cream and summertime strawberries and cream. The chefs also create huge meringues with fruit and chocolate, whoopie pies and special seasonal items
too long! Once wed flagged up the error, the second round was perfect, but it was a little disappointing, with so much magical detail on display. As it was marginally early in the day for cake (I hear your objection) we each chose one to take home. For me, blueberry for him, sticky toffee. My mum a seasoned Christmas fte baker was recently horrified by the price of a cupcake in a trendy Cardiff caf. I assured her these days, 1.50 for anything is a bargain! The Swallow Bakery ones start at 1.80, which I still think is more than fair my blueberry one was no less than magnificent, with gooey fruit at the bottom, the lightest sponge and a swirl of dreamy icing. Good news for us, Andrew says he is looking to expand into the West Country but he doesnt want to get carried away: Im trying to make sure it doesnt become a big chain I want to keep the personal relationship with my staff and my customers. It wouldnt take much for The Swallow Bakery to become a country-wide phenomenon, but were definitely happy to keep it our delicious secret! Swallow Bakery 81 North Street Chichester West Sussex PO19 1LQ 01243 533008 www.swallowbakery.com
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chef profile
Name: Laurent Couvreur Head chef and owner of: Casanis Originally from: Nice, South of France Casanis is really down to my wife Jill. She ended up having to do all the hard work to make the business happen and I just turned up to do the cooking! When we moved from London to Bath, we wanted to have a more relaxed family life and I was happy to chef locally for a while until a fire where I worked made us bring forward our plans to open our own place. Since I was a teenager at culinary school in Nice, I have always dreamed of having my own restaurant. Being able to recreate dishes from my childhood and early experiences in the South of France is what Casanis is all about. Working with Michelin Chef Jacques Chibois in Cannes helped me refine the Provenal style I learned from my mother who cooked wonderful fresh, regional dishes for us. After many years experience working along the Cte dAzur at haute cuisine restaurants like La Mre Germaine and Rampoldi, I moved to New York, the place where a chef has to go to understand the importance of being customer focused! I try to modernise traditional Provenale recipes by taking the best local ingredients then mixing and matching them with new ideas and customer favourites. When people think of Casanis, I want people to think of honest, hearty food with a touch of quality and finesse and a friendly ambience of unobtrusive efficiency. I miss daily visits to wonderful fresh product markets in France; nibbling on warm fresh Pissaladire on the way home from artisan bakers and enjoying their delicious pan bagnat (Nioise salad in a bap) on the beach in Nice. Having said all that, I love living in Bath. We are privileged to have such an abundance of wonderful produce in the South West and the spring lamb I get from Terrys family butchers in Bath would definitely give the Sisteron lamb from Provence a run for its money! My fridge at home contains des choses picorer (nibbles) as thats all I have time for! Theres a selection of cheeses from Comt to Roquefort, along with saucisson, salad and olives all of which complement a lovely glass of red wine to help wind down. Id be lying though if I didnt own up to enjoying the occasional baked beans on toast between shifts! The kitchen is a unique environment. I still remember trying to hold up a collapsed shelf containing six heavy pans with my left hand, whilst cooking four medium rare steaks with the other. I still dont know why the kitchen team found it so funny! Ive cooked for film stars, musicians and even royalty but I always treat the food the same way and do my very best to make people really enjoy their meals. I love being a chef and believe you have to have an absolute passion and respect for food to be successful. We have students from a Parisian culinary school in our kitchens every year and I always say that if you love working with food its a wonderful career, but if you think youre working long hours in a restaurant now, then think long and hard before opening your own place. My future is one that is still very much centred on food, but the vision also involves sunshine, blue skies, motorbikes and relaxation
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The right staff ensure the success of any event, so for the times when you need a helping hand, Plush Staff is at your service. We offer a fresh approach to our clients staffing requirements and customer satisfaction is paramount to us. Its that simple. General Enquiries: 0845 5678 980 Damian: 07505807326 Naomi : 07505734313
www.plushstaff.co.uk info@plushstaff.co.uk
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How did Chef For All Seasons come about? I spent some time working the relief circuit finding out what customers were paying for the chefs compared to what the high street agencies were paying; I concluded that there had to be a fairer system where the chef got a better deal and the client didnt have to pay through the nose. Do you ever miss being in the kitchen? Honestly, no! I love doing what I do and I dont really get much time to think about the kitchen. I do the odd shift here and there so I have the best of both worlds I can pick up my knives as and when I want to. What makes you different from other catering agencies? We dont really see ourselves as an agency we prefer to call ourselves freelance chef specialists. Our philosophy is to take a small piece of the cake and ensure we get the best deal for the client and the chef. The fact we only deal with chefs means that we can concentrate fully on both parties needs.
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Christmas Parties Sunday Lunch Mince Pies & Mulled Wine Christmas Day Seasonal Lunches All you can eat buffets
Also, special festive accommodation rates Following your festive celebration, why not leave the car and stay the night.
The Avenue, Stanton Fitzwarren, Swindon SN6 7SD Tel: 0870 084 1388 Fax: 01793 861857 email: restaurant@stantonhouse.co.uk
www.stantonhouse.co.uk
Since 1851 the Dike family in Stalbridge have played a huge part in the community by providing green groceries and bakery goods to one and all. Five generations later, the baton has been passed on to Andrew Dike, whose father William founded the plans for the superstore. William was such an inspirational figure. His hard work and passion for bringing an independent supermarket to the area was contagious, says store manager Adam Vincent. It took five years of sorting out the legal stuff before we could start work in August 2006. The family then took a blow with the news that he had terminal cancer and wouldnt see his dream become a reality. Sadly he died August 2007. Losing William made the Dike family and their loyal team all the more determined to see his dream become a reality. Today, a bench sits in the entrance of the supermarket commemorating the man behind the vision and celebrating his success. A bottle of ale has also been brewed in his memory and can be bought from the store. Its not only the Dorset community who appreciate the work of this independent supermarket but the industry itself; awarding Dikes with Best Independent Retailer and Best Independent Alcohol Retailer in the UK. A caf serving hot delicious food and fresh coffee often means locals dropping in for a pint of milk have seen whole afternoons disappear in a cloud of cake and chatter. All of the produce is sourced within a 45-mile radius from local producers and those that arent mobile any longer to shop at the store can have their shopping delivered free of charge. Dike and Son have maintained their success with consistently high service, a recipe they wouldnt want to replicate. The success of this store is down to the community and the team that work in it, Andrew concludes, Thats not something you can find just anywhere. Dike & Son Ring Street Stalbridge Dorset DT10 2NB 01963 362204 www.dikes-direct.co.uk
drops by...
flavour
www.nestonparkfarmshop.com
f for fabulous
This monthflavour speaks to theLockhouse on the Portishead Marina who are still reeling from some rather special praise...
When so much of todays food industry can seem mass produced and dull, never before has it been so crucial to support those who champion good food and fight with determination and pride to protect our dining experiences away from low quality convenience. The Lockhouse in Portishead, owned by husband and wife team Martin and Deborah Barnett, is one such venture worthy of recognition. The Lockhouse began two years ago when Martin and Deborah grew tired of being unable to source consistently good restaurants outside of the city centre. When a picturesque venue became available on the emerging Portishead Marina, the duo decided to put Deborahs front of house experience at Anthony Worrall Thompsons Kew Grill, to good practice. Martin says: Deborah really is the figurehead of the business, she works hard and is dedicated to making this place stand out from the competition. Fortunately, her magic touch seems to be working. The restaurants 22-year-old Head Chef Peter Yarrow is a credit to his age. The awarded rosette with another one on its way before the year is out plus the loyal customer base and mouthwatering modern Anglo French menu, is testament enough to this young mans achievements. And, it seems as if we arent the only ones who think so. Gordon Ramsay and the production team behind Gordons Best Restaurant have also agreed that Lockhouse is one of the regions leading lights by choosing to feature them on the show in September. Martin enthuses: Gordons visit made for an exceptional day. The boys in the kitchen were starstruck by him, he is like a god to them so it was a really inspirational experience. Mr Ramsay was so taken by Lockhouses achievements to date that he promised to return on a personal visit with his family and without the cameras in the next couple of months. Everyone felt excited and privileged, Martin continues, It was a boost at a time when the effects of the recession can be felt, and proves that we really are on to something special here.
The Lockhouse Lockside Portishead North Somerset BS20 7AF 01275 397272 www.thelockhouseportishead.co.uk
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Take one for the team: Luke Narroway demonstrates hes a man of many talents
The art of
Known for being a super healthy and delicious meal option, sushi has a long and impressive heritage. Its been eaten for centuries by the Japanese and began to filter through the western channels in the mid 19th century as a form of elegant and healthy fast food. Its also a delicate cuisine that demands dedication and specialist skills; a fully trained sushi chef can take anywhere up to 12 years to master the art of this increasingly popular food. Consequently, sushi making courses have sprung up across the country to accommodate those with a desire to tap into their expertise.
Blurring the boundaries between food and an art form, sushi is a food phenomenon that has spread well beyond its native Japan across the globe, building up a following of even the most unlikely enthusiasts along the way...
The heart of the Cotswolds might be a far cry from the bright lights of Tokyo, but Foodworks Cookery School is proud to champion the art of sushi with regular courses for the inquisitive and health conscious. The latest students to put their sushi skills to the test was in fact the English rugby team, a band of men who know all too well about the importance of a healthy diet. The team promoted the benefits of preparing sushi from scratch with sushi master Mitsuhiro Karino, Executive Head Chef of Stanton House Hotel in Swindon, offering an evening of entertainment for all those involved.
sushi
Born in Japan, Mitsuhiro spent 12 years training at a Kaiseki restaurant in Tokyo before moving on to prepare meals for VIP guests at the Honda head offices. Now at Stanton House he shares his expertise with other UK based chefs as well as any enthusiastic rugby player. Having to explain how delicate you must be with the rice to a burly group of players made me smile, Karino says, Making sushi is fun, its great to see new people enjoying it, especially the team. Keeping the nutritionist happy is a staple part of the teams job, though guilty pleasures of burgers and beers were admitted to after the season finishes. England Saxons player Luke Narraway was quick to get stuck in and revel in his efforts: Sushi is a great food for us to eat, its full of protein, omega-3 and vitamins which improve energy levels. It also looks great on the plate! The healthy eating concept of Japanese cuisine has always been intriguing to the west, but with a wide selection of sushi bars and restaurants to chose from, diners often encounter westernised versions of the real thing. For those with a taste for the truly authentic, Karinos efforts can be sampled at Stantons Mt Fuji restaurant.
When serving sushi make sure that you display them in pairs: this represents peace
A helping hand
Sushi courses will start again at Foodworks Cookery School in the New Year, the perfect way to kick start a healthy 2011. In the meantime, book a course with internationally renowned master baker Maurice Chaplais or brush up your Christmas gourmet skills with a wide selection of courses to help prepare you for the festive season. T: 01242 870538 www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk
Stanton House Hotel The Avenue Stanton Fitzwarren Swindon SN6 7SD T: 08700 841388 W: www.stantonhouse.co.uk
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Lovejoys Wholesale
papas
fish restaurant
a n D t a K e aW aY
Independently voted by Daily Mirror readers as the Best Fish & Chips in the South West! Recent winners of The Regeneration Partners hip and Weston Mercury and Star FMs Business of the Year Award
Fruit Dairy
Vegetables Bread
Quality ingredients for restaurant kitchens in the West Wilts and Bath area. Local produce grown exclusively for us including specialist crops.
If you are passionate about your food wed like to talk to you
Papas Fish Restaurant and Takeaway ~ 20 Waterloo Street ~ Weston-Super-Mare ~ BS23 1LN Telephone: 01934 626565 ~ Visit: www.papasukltd.com
01225 708838
www.lovejoyswholesale.com
ris r Ch
tma
s!
Chef, food writer, author and mother Sin Blunos is passionate about childrens health and their eating habits, and believes that expanding your knowledge of food can only help benefit your child.
An apple a day will keep the doctor away. Whilst it will certainly take more than a daily apple to keep you healthy, apples are delicious, easy to carry for snacking, low in calories, a natural mouth freshener and are still very inexpensive.There are hundreds of varieties of apples on the market today in all shapes and sizes. They can be sweet, tart, soft and smooth or crisp and crunchy, catering for almost every taste bud out there. Its a good idea to eat apples with their skin as almost half of the vitamin C content is just underneath the surface of the skin. Most of an apples fragrance cells are also concentrated in the skin and as they ripen, the skin cells develop more aroma and flavour.
fruit FRUIT
The insoluble fibres hold water in the intestinal tract so cleanse and move the food faster through the digestive tract whilst the phytonutrients in apples can help regulate your blood sugar, making apples an ideal energy booster for your little ones on the go! remove from the heat. Remove the cinnamon stick. 2 Pure the apple mixture in a food processor or with a hand held blender. Leave to cool, then divide into portions and serve or freeze. For the Puffs: Makes 8-10 puffs 225g Puff pastry, homemade or bought 225g apple, sultana and cinnamon puree 1 medium egg, beaten A little caster sugar 1 On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to a thickness of about 3mm. Then using a 10cm round cutter, cut out as many discs as you can (you should get about 8-10). 2 Place a heaped teaspoon of apple pure in the centre of each pastry dish. Brush
know your
Apples are a source of soluble and insoluble fibre that helps improve bowel function. The pectin and other acids present in apples also aids in digestion.
To order a personally signed copy of Cooking for Coco for only 8.50 (including postage), RRP9.99, email sian@blunos.com
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The Black Horse Clevedon Lane Clapton-in-Gordano Avon BS20 7RH 01275 842 105
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methods and hygiene standards mean that real ale served through a hand pump is usually perfectly good, there is a genuinely intoxicating purity about a beer that is served straight from the barrel in which it has been fermenting. You really do get the beer, the whole beer and nothing but the beer, and consequently a much more natural flavour. Beyond the main bar area is a snug, with ornate high-back seating and, on one window, a set of bars that bear testament to the rooms previous use as the village lock-up for drunks and other miscreants.
History does not relate whether the bar and gaol operated at the same time, but it would seem a very efficient system if they did. Food is kept very simple, but very well prepared and presented. Expect a variety of baguettes, baps and soups, a ploughmans lunch or perhaps simple chicken or vegetarian meals. This is restricted to lunchtimes so evening visitors should eat first or be prepared to fight off that Labrador for the leftovers!
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This month we talk to the woman affectionately known as the Irish cooking Queen about her hometown, easy entertaining and making baking sexy
Why did you choose to attend the Ballymaloe Cookery School at the age if 18? One summer holiday I helped out a friend with some outside catering and I loved it. I concluded that even if I went on to do something else, I should know how to cook. Ballymaloe has always been very well known in Ireland so I applied there. I didnt know very much about their ethos at the time, other than it was an organic farm, but the little I did know I intrigued me.
10 questions with...
Rachel Allen
What style of cooking did it instil in you? When you go to do a course at Ballymaloe you go right back to basics and you learn all the techniques from scratch. I thought we would be making quite elaborate dishes but instead we learned to make things like a simple potato and fresh herb soup, bread, pastries I loved every minute. How has Irish cuisine developed do you think? Compared to a lot of countries we dont have a cuisine as such, though Irish food tends to be more about the produce now, its what chefs seem to rave about as well as our long-standing use of offal which has become more popular again. What kind of local produce do you enjoy from County Cork where you live? Weve got fantastic seafood so I love cooking with our fish and shellfish. We also have some great salami makers, beef farmers, vegetables growers and a huge choice of amazing cheeses. The regions dairy and the seafood are the definitely some of the best around.
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Where would you recommend to tourists on the hunt for good food? I am a little biased but I would definitely say to visit the restaurant at Ballymaloe House followed by a stroll around their lovely gardens where a lot of the produce comes from. Theres a great farmers market in Middleton on Saturday mornings and another fabulous new one in Douglas on the same day. The old English market in Cork is supposed to be one of the largest covered markets in Europe, and thats quite an experience too. Finally, theres a great vegetarian restaurant in Cork called Caf Parisien, its a great stopoff once youve been round the market. Youre portrayed as a home cook, have you spent time in a restaurant environment? I did years ago after I first trained, but then I moved into teaching and now I consider myself to be more of a cookery teacher, which is really my calling I think. When Im teaching I always try to remember how I felt when I was enrolled there, so if Im talking about an ingredient, Ill try to put it in context by talking about the great places Ive eaten it in and what flavours you can combine it with a big part of it is inspiring people. Your new book, Entertaining at Home seems to be about taking the pressure out of being a good host; is that a problem a lot of people suffer with? Definitely our lives are just so hectic now arent they? The thought of coming home to children who havent done their homework, a house that needs tidying, a meal that needs cooking then guests that need entertaining can be a bit daunting and terrifying. The mistake a lot of people make is thinking they have to cook a restaurant worthy meal, when if you invite friends round for a casual supper, then expectations are readjusted from all sides. Try cooking something like a lamb tagine or a warming chicken casserole and the evening can be just cosy and lovely. What store cupboard ingredients couldnt you live without? Extra virgin olive oil, Maldon sea salt, various types of tinned beans, chorizo and garlic, am I allowed more? Baking is enjoying a real renaissance at the moment, why do think that is? Id put it down to a few things actually. I think Nigella Lawson is a person who can take a lot of the credit for making baking sexy. The economic downturn has also
Tiramisu
This classic Italian dessert is very straightforward to prepare yet looks impressive layered up in individual glasses.
Serves 6 Vegetarian Ingredients 1 egg yolk 1 tbsp caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 x 250g tub of mascarpone 200ml (7fl oz) double or regular cream 200ml (7fl oz) strong black coffee, such as espresso 2 tbsp brandy 1012 boudoir biscuits (sponge fingers), each broken into 3 pieces 12 tbsp cocoa powder, for dusting Six medium glasses Method 1 Place the egg, sugar and vanilla extract in a large bowl and whisk to a creamy consistency. Add the mascarpone and cream and continue to whisk until smooth and creamy. 2 In a separate bowl, mix together the coffee and brandy. Dip 23 pieces of the boudoir biscuits into the coffee and brandy (just long enough to absorb the liquid, but not so long that they fall apart) and put into the bottom of one of the six glasses. Repeat for the remaining glasses. 3 Add 1 tablespoon of the mascarpone and cream mixture to cover the biscuits in each glass. Follow this with another layer of 23 biscuit pieces, dipped again in the coffee and brandy, finishing with another layer of mascarpone and cream. 4 Dust each glass with cocoa powder and place in the fridge to chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours). Take out of the fridge 10 minutes or so before serving (so they arent too chilled) and dust with a little more cocoa powder to serve.
played its part because its comforting, cheap and makes a great gift. I often meet people who say that they have a Baking Friday in work where everyone brings in their favourite cake I love that! Whats the easiest show stopper in the book? Theres a recipe for duck legs with a white bean and rosemary pure and wilted
greens with garlic and anchovy crumbs thats so seasonal and trust me, so simple too!
Catch Rachel Allen at this years BBC Good Food Winter Show, packed full of exhibitors, celebrity chefs and live demonstrations dedicated to the festive season. The show takes place at NEC Birmingham, 24-28 November.
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