Brewing Beer at Home: A Beginner's Guide to Crafting Your Own Brew

In recent years, homebrewing has surged in popularity as enthusiasts embrace the art and science of crafting their own beer. Whether you're drawn to the idea of experimenting with different flavours, saving money, or simply enjoying the satisfaction of creating something from scratch, homebrewing offers a rewarding and fulfilling hobby. 

If you're new to the world of brewing and eager to embark on your own brewing adventure, this beginner's guide will provide you with the essential knowledge and steps to get started on your journey to brewing delicious beer in the comfort of your own home.

Understanding the Basics:

Before diving into the brewing process, it's important to have a basic understanding of the key ingredients and equipment involved in brewing beer.

Ingredients:

Malt: Malted barley is the main source of fermentable sugars in beer. It provides the foundation of flavour, colour, and body.

Hops: Hops add bitterness, flavour, and aroma to beer. They balance the sweetness of the malt and contribute to the beer's overall complexity.

Yeast: Yeast is responsible for fermenting the sugars in the malt into alcohol and carbon dioxide. It also plays a crucial role in shaping the beer's flavour profile.

Water: Water makes up the bulk of beer and affects its taste, mouthfeel, and clarity. Using quality water is essential for brewing great beer.

Equipment:

Brew Kettle: A large pot used for boiling the wort (unfermented beer).

Fermenter: A vessel where the wort is fermented into beer. It can be a plastic bucket or a glass demijohn.

Airlock: This lets CO2 escape during the fermentation process whilst at the same time stopping while outside air from entering.

Thermometer: To monitor the temperature during brewing and fermentation.

Hydrometer: A tool used to measure the specific gravity of the wort and monitor the fermentation process.

The Brewing Process:

Now that you have a fundamental knowledge of the basic ingredients and equipment you will require, let's take you through the whole process.

Mashing: Mashing involves steeping crushed malted grains in hot water to extract fermentable sugars. This process typically takes place in a brew kettle or a dedicated mash tun at a controlled temperature (usually between 145°F to 158°F) for about 60 to 90 minutes.

Boiling: After mashing, the liquid extract known as wort is boiled in the brew kettle. During the boil, hops are added at different times to achieve bitterness, flavor, and aroma. Actually, this is an important stage because boiling sanitises the wort and assists in concentrating the flavours.

Cooling: Once the boil is complete, the wort needs to be rapidly cooled to a temperature suitable for fermentation (usually around 65°F to 75°F). This can be achieved using a wort chiller or by placing the brew kettle in an ice bath.

Fermentation: The now cooled wort is moved to a fermenter, and the necessary yeast is added. The fermenter is then sealed with an airlock, allowing the carbon dioxide produced during fermentation to escape while preventing outside contaminants from entering. Fermentation typically takes place for one to two weeks, depending on the beer style and yeast strain used.

Bottling or Kegging: Once fermentation is complete, the beer is ready to be carbonated and packaged. For bottling, priming sugar is added to the beer before bottling to facilitate carbonation. The beer is then bottled and allowed to carbonate for another one to two weeks. Alternatively, the beer can be transferred to a keg for carbonation and serving.

Homebrewing is a fascinating and rewarding hobby that allows you to explore your creativity while producing high-quality beer to enjoy with friends and family. While this guide covers the basics of brewing beer at home, there is always room for experimentation and refinement as you gain experience and confidence in your brewing skills. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients and equipment, and embark on your own brewing adventure. Cheers to brewing your first batch of homemade beer!

Elevating the Humble Baked Bean: Transforming a Classic into a Culinary Masterpiece

Baked beans, a staple in many households, often conjure images of simple, comforting meals. 

However, this humble dish has the potential to transcend its basic reputation and become a culinary masterpiece with just a few creative touches. 

By infusing flavours, experimenting with textures, and incorporating complementary ingredients, you can elevate baked beans to a whole new level of gastronomic delight.

Start with Quality Ingredients:

The foundation of any culinary masterpiece lies in the quality of its ingredients. Opt for high-quality canned or dried beans, such as navy beans or cannellini beans, and look for varieties with minimal additives or preservatives. Alternatively, you can cook your beans from scratch for an even fresher taste.

Enhance the Flavor Profile:

Transform the flavor profile of your baked beans by adding aromatic ingredients such as onions, garlic, and herbs. Sauté diced onions and garlic in olive oil until golden brown before mixing them into the bean mixture. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can also impart a burst of freshness and complexity to the dish.

Experiment with Sweeteners:

While traditional baked bean recipes often call for brown sugar or molasses, don't be afraid to experiment with alternative sweeteners to add depth and complexity. Try maple syrup, honey, or even balsamic glaze for a unique twist on the classic sweetness.

Incorporate Savory Elements:

Balance the sweetness of the beans with savory elements like smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, or bacon. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while Worcestershire sauce lends a tangy, umami-rich flavour. For meat lovers, crispy bacon crumbles can provide a satisfying contrast in texture and taste.

Add Texture and Crunch:

Elevate the texture of your baked beans by incorporating ingredients that add crunch and contrast. Toasted breadcrumbs, fried onions, or even crushed potato crisps can provide a satisfying crunchiness that takes the dish to new heights.

Experiment with Toppings:

Get creative with toppings to add visual appeal and extra layers of flavor. Garnish your baked beans with fresh herbs, microgreens, grated cheese, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for a finishing touch that's sure to impress.

Serve with Accompaniments:

Elevate your baked beans into a complete meal by serving them with complementary accompaniments. Pair them with fluffy cornbread, crusty bread rolls, or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying feast.

With a little creativity and experimentation, the humble baked bean can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece that tantalises the taste buds and delights the senses. By incorporating quality ingredients, enhancing the flavor profile, and experimenting with textures and toppings, you can elevate this classic dish to new heights of gastronomic delight. 

So next time you're craving comfort food with a gourmet twist, don't underestimate the potential of the humble baked bean to dazzle and delight.

World Baking Day is on Sunday 19th May. Celebrate it with Matthews Cotswold Flour

Matthew Cotswold Flour is going to celebrates World Baking Day on Sunday 19th May 2024 and they are inviting everyone, including That's Food and Drink and our readers to join in the celebrations. 

Here are Matthews Cotswold Flour's premier top tips for celebrating the big day.

First on the list is to just bake! It doesn't matter what you bake, bread, cakes, biscuits or cookies, just bake something! And it doesn't matter if you are a skilled, regular baker or a total neophyte, because their are plenty of recipes in books, magazines or online for lots of stuff you can bake yourself, savoury or sweet. Some recipes are fairly complex, some are basic, so there's inspiration for everyone, no matter what their skill levels might be.

And it will be a nice ideas experienced bakers to encourage non-baking family members or friends to have a bash at a more easy recipe. Sharing our skills can be great fun for everyone.

Why not immerse your whole self in a morning or afternoon of baking? Enjoy the benefits of taking some time to relax and enjoy the benefits of switching off from the strains and stresses of everyday life. Maybe tune in to Classic FM for some musical inspiration?

If you have children, why not get them involved in the baking process? Share your knowledge with them.

Try a new recipe? Here's one for Red Velvet Cookies https://cotswoldflour.com/blogs/cakes/red-velvet-valentines-cookies

If you feel the need for some interaction with other bakers you can participate in an online baking community like the free-to-join Cotswold Flour Baking Club. You'll find yourself inspired, checking out new recipes, taking part in competitions, enjoying useful and comforted by the support you'll receive. https://cotswoldflour.com/pages/baking-club

Got a good cause that you raise money for? This time why not launch a bake sale (perhaps with like-minded people?) and raise money for that good cause.

You've got the baked goods that you have created, so why not get your family members and friends to come round to your home to help you celebrate World Baking Day by helping to eat your baked goods? Perhaps they can supply something suitable to drink, and some charcuterie and selected cheeses and fresh butter to complement your baked goods?

Sophie Carey, Bakery Development Manager for Matthews Cotswold Flour, says: “'Baking is one of our most ancient crafts and it is just as important today as it ever has been!"

For more information visit www.cotswoldflour.com or follow @CotswoldFlour on Instagram or Facebook.

The Dark Side of Vegan Dairy Alternatives: Unveiling the Chemicals and Environmental Impact

As consumers of both dairy and non-dairy products, we make no comment on the contents of this blogpost. However, we are sharing it with our readers to help stimulate an informed debate on the subject of alternatives to dairy produce.

In recent years, the rise of veganism has spurred a massive demand for dairy alternatives. Whilst many embrace these substitutes as a healthier and more environmentally friendly option, the reality might not be as rosy as it seems at first glance,

Contrary to popular belief, many vegan dairy alternatives often come loaded with chemicals, contribute to environmental degradation, and can pose health risks to consumers.

The Chemical Conundrum: What's Hiding in Your Vegan Cheese?

One of the primary concerns with vegan dairy alternatives is the reliance on synthetic additives, stabilisers, and flavourings to mimic the taste and texture of dairy products. Ingredients like carrageenan, xanthan gum, and artificial flavours are commonly used to achieve the desired consistency and flavour, but they often come with a host of health risks.

Carrageenan, extracted from red seaweed, is a common thickening agent found in many plant-based milks and cheeses. However, studies have linked carrageenan consumption to inflammation, digestive issues, and even cancer in some studies. Similarly, artificial flavours and colours used in vegan dairy alternatives may contain chemicals that are potentially harmful to human health.

Environmental Impact: Are Vegan Alternatives Really Eco-Friendly?

While veganism is often touted as a more sustainable lifestyle choice, the environmental impact of dairy alternatives tells a different story. Despite what some campaigners have claimed, the production of ingredients like almond milk and soy milk requires vast amounts of water and land, leading to deforestation, habitat destruction, and depletion of natural resources.

Moreover, the processing and packaging of vegan dairy alternatives contribute to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. From energy-intensive manufacturing processes to the disposal of non-biodegradable packaging materials, the ecological footprint of these products can be substantial.

Health Risks for Consumers: Unintended Consequences of Going Vegan

Despite being marketed as healthier options, vegan dairy alternatives may not always live up to their health claims. Many commercial varieties are high in added sugars, preservatives, and sodium to enhance flavour and shelf life. Excessive consumption of these additives can lead to various health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Furthermore, the nutritional content of vegan dairy alternatives may not necessarily match that of their dairy counterparts. While they may be fortified with vitamins and minerals, they often lack essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein, leading to potential deficiencies in vegan diets.

A Call for Transparency and Conscious Consumption

In light of these concerns, it's crucial for consumers to be informed about the ingredients and production processes behind vegan dairy alternatives. By prioritising transparency and seeking out products made with wholesome, minimally processed ingredients, individuals can make more conscious choices for their health and the environment.

Additionally, supporting local and sustainable producers can help minimise the environmental impact of dairy alternatives whilst promoting healthier, more nutritious options. By advocating for stricter regulations on food labelling and ingredient transparency, consumers can empower themselves to make informed decisions and navigate the complex landscape of vegan food products.

In conclusion, while vegan dairy alternatives offer a cruelty-free and plant-based alternative to traditional dairy products, they are not without their drawbacks. 

From the use of synthetic additives to their environmental footprint and potential health risks, it's essential to approach these alternatives with caution and scrutiny. By promoting transparency, sustainability, and conscious consumption, we can strive towards a more ethical and balanced food system for both people and the planet.

The Looming Crisis: High Energy Costs Threaten Britain's Beloved Pubs and Restaurants

In the heart of every British city, town and village, you'll find a quintessential institution: the pub. These cozy corners of community life have been the backdrop for countless gatherings, celebrations, and heartfelt conversations for many centuries. 

Similarly, restaurants across the nation offer a diverse array of culinary delights, drawing locals and tourists alike to savor their unique flavours. However, beneath the convivial atmosphere and gastronomic delights lies a looming crisis that threatens to dim the lights of these cherished establishments: the soaring cost of energy and the crushing weight of the cost of living crisis.

Britain's pub and restaurant sector has long been an integral part of our cultural fabric, but recent challenges have pushed many establishments to the brink. Among the most pressing issues is the relentless rise in energy costs. From heating to lighting and kitchen appliances, energy is a vital component of daily operations for pubs and restaurants. However, the sharp increase in energy prices in recent years has placed an unprecedented strain on businesses already grappling with thin profit margins.

The cost of living crisis further compounds these challenges. As the prices of essentials such as food, fuel, and housing continue to escalate, consumers are left with less disposable income to spend on dining out or enjoying a pint at their local pub. This has led to a decline in footfall and a reduction in consumer spending, further squeezing the already tight margins of pubs and restaurants.

One of the most visible impacts of these challenges is the closure of beloved establishments. According to recent reports, hundreds of pubs and restaurants have closed their doors for good in the past year alone, unable to withstand the financial pressures exacerbated by high energy costs and the cost of living crisis. Each closure represents not only the loss of a business but also the loss of local jobs and the erosion of community spaces that play an essential role in bringing people together.

Moreover, the ripple effects of these closures extend far beyond the doors of individual establishments. The hospitality sector is a significant contributor to the British economy, providing employment opportunities for millions of people across the country. The closure of pubs and restaurants not only results in job losses but also disrupts supply chains and affects ancillary businesses that rely on the patronage of these establishments.

So, what can be done to support Britain's struggling pubs and restaurants in the face of these challenges? First and foremost, urgent action is needed to address the root causes of the crisis. Government intervention to mitigate the impact of soaring energy costs through targeted subsidies or tax relief measures would provide much-needed relief to struggling businesses. 

Similarly, measures to alleviate the burden of the cost of living crisis, such as increasing wages or reducing VAT on hospitality services, could help stimulate consumer confidence and spending and bolster the resilience of the sector.

Furthermore, collaboration between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and energy providers is essential to develop sustainable solutions that ensure the long-term viability of Britain's pub and restaurant sector. This may involve investment in energy-efficient technologies, promoting renewable energy sources, and exploring alternative business models that prioritise sustainability and resilience.

Ultimately, the fate of Britain's pubs and restaurants hangs in the balance. As cherished symbols of community and tradition, they deserve our support and protection in the face of mounting challenges. By addressing the underlying issues of high energy costs and the cost of living crisis, we can ensure that these vital institutions continue to thrive for generations to come. The time to act is now, before it's too late to save the heart and soul of Britain's culinary landscape.

The Art of Plating: Elevating Your Home Cooking to Restaurant-Worthy Presentation

The saying goes, "we eat with our eyes first," and there's perhaps no realm where this rings truer than in the world of culinary artistry. 

The art of plating, often overlooked by amateur chefs, is a crucial aspect of presenting food in a visually appealing and appetising manner. 

Whilst it's tempting to focus solely on taste and flavour, mastering the art of plating can elevate your home cooking to restaurant-worthy presentation, turning a simple meal into a feast for the senses.

Understanding the Importance of Plating:

Plating is more than merely arranging food on a plate; it's a creative process that involves balance, symmetry, and attention to detail. A well-plated dish not only looks beautiful but also enhances the dining experience by stimulating the appetite and creating anticipation for what's to come. Whether you're serving a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, thoughtful plating can take your culinary creations to the next level.

Key Principles of Plating:

Balance: Achieving balance on the plate involves a harmonious combination of colours, textures, and flavors. Aim for a variety of elements that complement each other, such as pairing creamy mashed potatoes with crispy vegetables or tender protein with a tangy sauce.

Proportion: Pay attention to the proportion of each component on the plate. Avoid overcrowding or leaving large empty spaces. Instead, aim for a visually pleasing distribution of food that allows each element to shine forth.

Contrast: Contrast is essential for creating visual interest. Play with different shapes, sizes, and colours to make your dish pop. For example, pair vibrant green vegetables with a rich, dark sauce or garnish a light-colored protein with a bright, colourful salsa.

Focus Point: Every plate should have a focal point that draws the eye and serves as the centerpiece of the dish. This could be the main protein, a vibrant sauce, or a carefully placed garnish. Use plating techniques such as stacking, drizzling, or layering to highlight the focal point and create depth.

Garnishes: Garnishes are the finishing touch that adds flavour, texture, and visual appeal to a dish. Fresh herbs, edible flowers, citrus zest, or microgreens can all elevate the presentation and make your food look more polished.

Practical Tips for Home Cooks:

Plan Ahead: Before plating, visualise how you want the finished dish to look and plan your components accordingly. Preparing and organising your ingredients in advance will make the plating process smoother and more efficient.

Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality, fresh ingredients that are visually appealing on their own. Vibrant vegetables, colourful fruits, and perfectly cooked proteins will make your plated dishes stand out.

Experiment with Plate Shapes and Sizes: Don't be afraid to get creative with your choice of plates and serving dishes. Different shapes, sizes, and textures can complement the food and enhance the overall presentation.

Practice Precision: Pay attention to the small details, such as wiping the rim of the plate clean or arranging ingredients with precision. A little extra effort in presentation can make a big difference in the overall appearance of the dish.

Seek Inspiration: Draw inspiration from professional chefs, cookbooks, and food photography for ideas and techniques to incorporate into your plating style. Experiment with different presentations until you find what works best for you.

Mastering the art of plating takes practice, patience, and a keen eye for detail, but the results are well worth the effort. By applying key principles of balance, proportion, contrast, and focus, home cooks can transform their everyday meals into culinary masterpieces that rival those served in restaurants. So next time you step into the kitchen, don't just focus on the flavours; consider the presentation too, and let your creativity shine on the plate. Happy plating!

(Image courtesy of celeste onofre from Pixabay)

Mastering the Art of Baking: Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pastries and Breads

Whilst we were enjoying a loaf of bread my wife made, I thought: "We really do need to write about making bread." Here is the result.

Baking is more than just following a recipe; it's a delicate dance between ingredients, techniques, and timing. 

Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out on your culinary journey, mastering the art of baking is a rewarding endeavour. In this blog post, we'll explore some invaluable tips and tricks to help you achieve perfection in your pastries and bread-making adventures.

Start with Quality Ingredients:

The foundation of any great baked good lies in the ingredients you use. Opt for high-quality flour, fresh eggs, real butter (or top quality plant-based alternatives if baking for vegans) and top-notch spices and flavourings. Using fresh ingredients will elevate the taste and texture of your creations, making them truly memorable.

Precision in Measurements:

Although there's a good deal of artistry and a certain amount of magic involved, we must remember that baking is a science, and precision is key. 

Invest in a good set of scales, measuring items and spoons, and follow recipes closely, especially when it comes to ingredients like flour, sugar, and leavening agents. Even slight deviations can significantly impact the final result.

Understand Your Oven:

Every oven has its quirks, so take the time to get to know yours. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature readings, and be mindful of hot spots and uneven heat distribution. Adjust baking times and temperatures accordingly to achieve consistent results.

Master the Techniques:

From folding and creaming to kneading and proofing, mastering fundamental baking techniques is essential for success. Take the time to practice and hone your skills, whether it's achieving the perfect pie crust or mastering the art of the flaky croissant.

Don't Overmix:

Overmixing can lead to tough, dense baked goods, particularly with recipes that involve flour. Mix ingredients until just combined to avoid overdeveloping gluten, which can result in a less-than-ideal texture.

Embrace the Resting Period:

Many recipes call for resting or chilling the dough before baking. This allows flavours to meld and develop, while also giving the dough time to relax, resulting in better texture and structure. Don't rush this step, it's often the secret to bakery-quality results.

Experiment with Flavours and Textures:

Baking is as much about creativity as it is about technique. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavours, fillings, and textures to put your own unique spin on classic recipes. Whether it's adding a hint of citrus zest to your scones or incorporating nuts and seeds into your bread, let your imagination run wild.

Practice Patience:

Good things come to those who wait, especially in the world of baking. Whether it's waiting for dough to rise or allowing a cake to cool before frosting, patience is essential. Rushing the process can lead to disappointment, so take your time and savour the journey.

Baking is a timeless art form that rewards patience, precision, and passion. By incorporating these tips and tricks into your baking routine, you'll be well on your way to creating picture-perfect pastries and breads that will impress friends and family alike. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked treats fill your kitchen, it's time to unleash your inner baker!

(Image courtesy of congerdesign from Pixabay)

Fusion Cuisine: Mixing and Matching Culinary Traditions for Bold Flavours

In the realm of culinary exploration, fusion cuisine stands as a beacon of creativity, offering a playground where diverse culinary traditions converge to create entirely new flavor experiences. 

This innovative approach to cooking transcends borders, blending ingredients, techniques, and cultural influences to produce dishes that tantalise the taste buds and challenge traditional notions of cuisine. 

With its ability to marry the familiar with the exotic, fusion cuisine opens up a whole world of possibilities for adventurous food enthusiasts seeking bold and unforgettable dining experiences.

The Art of Fusion:

At its core, fusion cuisine is a celebration of diversity, embracing the myriad flavors and ingredients found across different cultures. It draws inspiration from a rich tapestry of culinary traditions, including Asian, Mediterranean, Latin American, and beyond, weaving them together to form harmonious and unexpected combinations. Whether it's a Japanese-inspired taco, a Thai-infused pizza, or a Mexican-Indian curry, fusion cuisine knows no bounds, constantly pushing the boundaries of taste and innovation.

One of the hallmarks of fusion cuisine is its emphasis on balance. By carefully blending contrasting flavors, textures, and spices, chefs can create dishes that are greater than the sum of their parts. For example, the heat of a traditional Mexican salsa can be tempered by the creaminess of Greek tzatziki, resulting in a harmonious fusion of flavours that dance on the palate. Similarly, the umami richness of Japanese miso can lend depth to Italian pasta dishes, while the brightness of citrus can elevate the richness of Indian curries.

Embracing Fusion:

Embracing fusion cuisine opens up a world of culinary possibilities, inviting both home cooks and professional chefs alike to experiment with new ingredients and techniques. For those looking to embark on their own fusion culinary adventures, the key lies in understanding the flavor profiles and cooking styles of different cuisines, and fearlessly mixing and matching them to create something uniquely delicious.

However, while fusion cuisine encourages creativity and experimentation, it's important to approach it with respect for the cultural traditions from which it draws inspiration. By honoring the origins of the ingredients and techniques used, chefs can ensure that their fusion creations are both innovative and respectful of the culinary heritage they represent.

The Future of Fusion:

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, fusion cuisine is poised to continue its ascent, evolving and adapting to reflect the ever-changing tastes and preferences of global food enthusiasts. With access to a vast array of ingredients from around the world and a growing appetite for culinary exploration, the possibilities for fusion cuisine are truly limitless.

In conclusion, fusion cuisine represents a thrilling convergence of culinary traditions, offering a canvas upon which chefs can paint bold and vibrant flavor combinations. By embracing diversity and pushing the boundaries of traditional cooking, fusion cuisine invites us to embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the richness and complexity of global food culture. So, whether you're a seasoned chef or an adventurous home cook, why not step into the world of fusion cuisine and discover the endless possibilities that await? After all, in the kitchen, the only limit is your imagination.

Award-Winning Chef Jamie Rogers Named Executive Head Chef at the Millbrook Inn

There's good news for diners and lovers of good food in Devon in the Westcountry, because South Pool's Millbrook Inn has just announced the appointment of Jamie Rogers as its new executive chef.

Jamie, the celebrated owner of Kingsbridge's award-winning Twenty Seven restaurant, brings with him a whole wealth of experience and numerous accolades.

Recognised and acclaimed for his outstanding food, Jamie, who grew up in Wales, began his chef's career in Devon, beginning as a salad prep worker and cooking pot washer in the Cricket Inn in Beesands. 

Since that start to his career he's worked in some of the area's leading kitchens, including Tanners and the Barbican Kitchen, the Barbican's Glassblowing House, South Sands Hotel, plus the Langdon Court Hotel. He has also participated in Masterchef: The Professionals and was South West Chef of the Year.

Jamie said: “I'm thrilled to be joining the Millbrook Inn as their executive chef. It's a pub I've been an admirer for several years. Its reputation for serving some of the area's best food is well-deserved. I'm obviously looking forward to contributing to its continued success."

Jamie isn't abandoning his foodies haven, Twenty Seven which he opened back in 2018 and quickly established it as a destination for foodies across Devon and beyond, which he will continue to operate. The Millbrook Inn, also justifiably famed for its culinary offerings will provide Jamie with a new outlet for his skills. 

This will include using a Josper, an indoor oven that allows cooking over living flames. Jamie said: “The Josper will enable me to be really creative with my cooking."

Owners of The Millbrook Inn the Owens family, source most of the ingredients Jamie will cook with from Fowlescombe Farm, their family farm, with organic native and rare breed meats, plus home grown vegetables and fruit from the market garden.

“That much of the food is sourced from Fowlescombe Farm is an added bonus as I've always been committed to using top quality, local ingredients whenever possible," added Jamie.

The Owens family, who also own some holiday cottages near the pub, are pleased that delighted with the appointment of Jamie hss been appointed, saying: and said: “We are really excited that Jamie has joined us.”

Celebrate Holi At Mandira's Kitchen

4th April, 6.30-10pm

Venue:  Mandira's Kitchen, Silent Pool, Shere Road, Albury, Guildford, Surrey. GU5 9BW

Email: enquiries@mandiraskitchen.com

Telephone 01483 940789

Join them for a Holi Extravaganza as they paint the town red, blue, green, and every colour of the rainbow as they celebrate spring, love, and new life at this special pop-up dining experience at Mandira's Kitchen. 

This culinary 3-course Holi feast embraces all the rich traditions and spices of this absolutely joyous occasion, includes savoury Chaats, decadent desserts plus a delicious Holi Special Pulao and tasty Chicken/Mushroom Rezala.

Holi is known as the festival of colours or the festival of love. It marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. 

During Holi, people come together and they have play with colours, have fun, dance, and enjoy delicious food.

It's a vibrant and joyous celebration that promotes unity and happiness among people who participate.

Paper suits are included for the colour celebrations on the field or please wear dark clothing  that you don't mind getting messy. And practice your throwing!

Tickets are £55 per person and there are only 40 places available, so don't miss your opportunity to be a part of this unique experience. Book your tickets now and let the festivities begin!

Celebrate Holi at Mandira's Kitchen (mandiraskitchen.com)

Menu

Tikka Chole Chaat

(Crispy potato patties topped with spiced chickpeas, tangy chutneys, and crunchy sev, evoking the lively streets of Holi festivities. (Dairy)

Bhel Puri

(Crispy puffed rice, tangy tamarind chutney, and zesty spices, reminiscent of colourful street-side celebrations. (Nuts, Gluten)

Kachori Chaat

(Flaky pastry shells filled with aromatic spiced lentils, yogurt, and chutneys, capturing the essence of Holi's vibrant flavours. (Dairy, Gluten)

Sandwich Dhokla

(Fluffy steamed lentil cakes sandwiched together with vibrant chutneys, offering a delightful fusion of textures and tastes, perfect for festive gatherings. )

Holi Special Pulao

(Fragrant basmati rice prepared with spices, symbolising the vibrant colours of Holi. Rajma Creamy kidney beans cooked in a rich tomato gravy, embodying the warmth and abundance of the season.)

Chicken Rezala

(Succulent chicken simmered in a fragrant yogurt-based gravy, infused with delicate spices, reminiscent of festive feasts)

Or Mushroom Rezala

(Tender mushrooms cooked in a luscious yogurt and cream sauce, delicately spiced and bursting with flavour)

Poppadums, Chutney, Raita, Puri (Puffed Bread)

Jalebi with Rabri

(Crispy golden spirals soaked in fragrant sugar syrup, served with creamy reduced milk, a quintessential treat to sweeten the festivities.)

Gujiya

(Golden-fried pastries filled with a rich mixture of khoya, nuts, and spices, capturing the essence of traditional Holi sweets.)

Served with Masala Chai or upgrade to Bubbles (extra £6 secures this)