Written by Charlie Branwhite, guest to our Field to Fork dinner and Sandy Paws Stay
As a couple whose passions and hobbies encompass all traditional aspects of country life, we advocate eating and swapping to game at every opportunity. So when we got invited to a Game Dinner at The Feathers celebrating all things “field to fork”, we couldn’t have been more excited!
We arrived at picturesque Holt on a chilly November night, with our mouths already watering in anticipation of the delights that awaited us. And wow, The Feathers didn’t disappoint.
With its cosy country interiors and pretty twinkling lights, we were seated in a beautiful conservatory, on a table with other like minded, game loving, souls.
The 5-course tasting menu by renowned game chef Ant Brown showcased game from the local Houghton Hall Estate and Deer Park, complemented with seasonal and foraged produce from the region and further afield. All accompanied by an incredible hand selected wine flight!
The courses really highlighted Houghton’s commitment to supporting their native ecosystems and Ant Brown's modern take on game cookery - as you will see from the courses listed below;
Thyme Tartlet, Fallow Deer Heart Tartare, Crispy Shallot / Roast Chinese Water Deer, Basa Gede, Coriander Dressing / Skewer of Grilled Sika Deer, Slow Baked Mushroom, Shallot
Duck Liver Parfait, Hazelnuts, Citrus Cured Mallard, Pickled Radish, Watercress Mallard
Grouse Den Miso, Kohlrabi and Apple Salad, Yuzu Dressing, Sesame Grouse
Roast & Poached Partridge, Yeasted Cauliflower Puree, Cabbage Chestnut Ballotine, Bacon, Game Sauce
Classic Baked Cheesecake, Mulled Hedgerow, Mirin, Anise Hedgerow Berries
Wherever possible we try to swap to game in our cooking at home, and will always choose the game option on a menu when we’re out. But the quality of the meat & how it had been interpreted in this menu at The Feathers was just exquisite! Our favourite course was the grouse - what would yours be?
There are so many benefits of swapping to game meat that not many people are aware of. Game meat has a far lower fat content than traditional farmed meats, and a much higher protein content. It is also higher in Omega-3 fatty acids, and has a low saturated fat content meaning it’s lower in cholesterol. Game meat has a low carbon footprint, and of course is truly organic! You can be guaranteed that the animal has lived a life that is wild and free - it really doesn’t get more free range than this. Lastly, it’s versatile & just extremely yummy!!!
Game meat has a low carbon footprint, and of course is truly organic!
After devouring the most wonderful meal and wine flight we, somehow, made it upstairs to our beautiful room overlooking Holt high street. Our cocker spaniel was extremely happy to find a cosy basket, toy and treats waiting for him - a lovely touch!
Our room was utterly stunning and very much to our taste, just like the rest of the The Feathers. It combines traditional country interiors with a modern twist, whilst still keeping that cosy and homely feel.
After a wonderful nights sleep and relaxing morning, we headed back downstairs for a lovely breakfast. Jamie opted for the full English whilst I couldn’t resist the salmon and poached eggs! We checked out, (always a sad moment!) and headed off to explore the charming streets and independent shops in Holt.
We’ve been such huge fans of Chestnut for a long time now, and The Feathers is a real jewel in their crown. If you’re a fan of cosy country interiors, a warm reception and mouth watering food then you must give them a visit!
Charlie Branwhite, @charliebarley
Thank you to Charlie for this lovely response to her recent stay and experience.
To book a stay or meal at The Feathers, click here.
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