A vigorous swirl of finely battoned turnip in a generous splash of vinegar, rice is best, and chemistry takes over. The once clear bowl is suddenly vivid purple. Let it rest for a few minutes and then a forkful of this fresh, bright vegetable is irresistible. Taking small bites, you feel energised, fresh and wanting […]
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Excited shouts of ‘Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé’ in dodgy French accents will be ringing out today from bars and restaurants around the world from Lyon in France to Toyko and New York as the annual launch of this miracle of wine marketing hits the streets. Simple, fruity and perhaps tasting of bubblegum and figs […]
Read moreA couple of weeks ago I was kindly invited along with Cook_inc. magazine to a fund raising dinner. Money raised will be used for scholarships young given to young Italians keen to become professional cooks and to train with chef and educator Niko Romito. The dinner took place in Locanda Rocco, a beautiful, boutique restaurant […]
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Chefs have a choice. Run with the new, the unknown and the experimental, or fill their menus with dishes that cemented their early reputation. Yes, the favourites remain on the list – why would you want to disappoint long term fans of the dish seeking out signature dishes – think Riccardo Camanini at Lido 84 […]
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A Tuscan town famous for its health bearing waters and a being luxury spa destination who’s glory days were back in the early part of last century is now becoming a focal point for the modern incarnation of the natural wine phenomenon. Here in Montecantini Terme, about an hours drive from Florence, growers, wine makers, […]
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There are subtle forces at a play when a table is laid, food plated and served, and ultimately enjoyed. Long before the table is prepared, chefs and craftsmen and women skilled in ceramics have been creating backdrops for your meal. Before the table is prepared, there are questions to be asked. How deep should the […]
Read moreEarly morning mist mingled with the smell of dripping trees, damp earth and wet dog as we set out on a September truffle hunt at a secret location. Cup you hands and breath in the air around the truffle, said Andrea, our weather-beaten truffle hunter guide. “And smell. Breathe in the scent, deeply”. This was […]
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Grape Britain may be a catchy quote for a newspaper headline or social media post, but it also suggest an intriguing change in climate, attitude and opportunity for the British, notably English, winegrowers. Longer, warmer summers over the past 20 years have finally seen bottles filled with English, mostly sparkling white wine, winning prizes. English […]
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High above the rooftops of a bustling market town in Piedmont, northern Italy a culinary experiment fusing Japanese textures and flavours with an exotic oil made from legally grown and processed hemp, was taking place in a student kitchen. In the room were Phil, a chef and classmate of mine from the Masters in Food […]
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