It's been quite a week. I was behind the scenes on Tuesday when The Duchess of Cornwall visited Denman college the national teaching centre of the Women's Institute where I am now a tutor. I was assisting the Master Chef winner 2010 Dhruv Baker who was demonstrating and teaching on the day. To my great surprise his menu was entirely gluten free. What a treat and I can say, it was amazing. Dhruv showed us how to make a ballotine of chicken with a spiced chicken mouselline filling, This was served with a pickled carrot puree, saffron new potatoes and buttered spinach with fenugreek. For dessert he made a fantastic dark chocolate almond torte with amaretto cream and fresh raspberries. I only had a tiny taste but can say it was fantastic. I really enjoyed the mix of spices and flavours. Even though I had done a 9 hour day in the WI kitchen, I came home and felt compelled to make the vegetables for the family. I served them alongside a crispy roast chicken. What a fabulous combination.
These recipes are not entirely child friendly, as the flavours are quite bold and may not suit young children. But I do think older children and grownups will really enjoy them.
With Dhruv's kind permission I will be posting the recipes in the recipe section of the website. Please try them. They are spectacular. A big thanks to Dhruv for showcasing gluten free food in such a creative and inspiring way.