POP UP SUPPER CLUB WITH KATHER’S KITCHEN (AT HUMBLE BY NATURE) | FOOD REVIEW
Upper Meend Farm, near Penallt, Monmouth. www.humblebynature.com / www.katherskitchen.co.uk
We all know and love the happy Springwatch presenter and all-round cheery animal-loving Kate Humble, the plucky ex-Londoner who has given up dinner parties to take on and rescue a Monmouthshire farm, with her husband Ludo. Kate has created a working farm, which hosts courses from rural skills to animal husbandry, holiday accommodation, masterclasses and, most recently, a host of monthly supper clubs held in one of their purpose-built barns.
We went along to one of the farm’s regular supper club hosts, Katherine of Kather’s Kitchen, who uses organic, seasonal ingredients in all her dishes. When Katherine devised this evening’s menu it was during a spate of very hot weather; unfortunately, by the time the evening had arrived, it was belting down. However, the two courses on offer were fabulous. Chilled spring soup with mint, goats’ cheese and lemon mint and smoked salmon and asparagus terrine started us off.
Beautifully fresh mains consisted of spring chicken stuffed with feta, olive and tomato, with tomato and basil salsa, Jersey Royals and seasonal vegetables and an asparagus and leek risotto. What’s not to love about asparagus?
Dessert arrived in the form of elderflower and lemon tart, plus a white chocolate and earl grey tea crème brulee. All dishes were as delightful as they sound. The crème brulee recipe is one I’m waiting to arrive (Katherine promised to send it!), given it was one of the best I’ve ever tried.
The location and the quality of the food is excellent, and there are many clubs coming up over the following months: go to www.humblebynature.com for further details. All supper club evenings are £29.50 per person; BYO wine or there is a small selection available.
words ANTONIA LEVAY