James Martin talks Hampshire Food Festival
The Hampshire Food Festival brings the opportunity to explore the very best of the county’s food and drink. You’re invited to go behind the scenes of local vineyards and farms, feast on fine Hampshire produce, discover how craft ale and gin are made and learn new skills in the kitchen.
Having lived in Hampshire myself for over twenty years I have become a big advocate of Hampshire produce. In fact, I am so proud of what we have here I featured many of the producers in my BBC Home Comforts series. There is an array of flavour on our doorstep including award-winning cheese, quality meats, wine, fish, vegetables, ale and charcuterie.
Learning to cook seasonally with ingredients available locally can really change the way you plan food. I am passionate about sharing my culinary experience and inspiring people in the kitchen. I’m excited to be returning to Chewton Glen Hotel in the New Forest where I learnt so much in the kitchen. We have recently launched The Kitchen cookery school with a fantastic line up of courses including seasonal dinner parties, seafood, baking as well as private dining with myself and other guest chefs.
The festival organisers, Hampshire Fare, do a fantastic job of supporting the county’s local producers. The festival is a chance to celebrate with them all that is going on in Hampshire’s thriving local food scene. So, my advice is to study the pages of the programme and plan your July around Hampshire’s tasty offering.