Rose Kentish Kitchen: July 2011

Wednesday, 20 July 2011

A Wedding in Rye

Last weekend my team and I travelled down to East Sussex to cater for a wedding. The wedding was held in a beautiful outdoor location, Chitcombe Farm Organics run by Emma Howitt (check it out here at www.eastsussexweddingvenues.co.uk).

Set within the farm grounds in a large marquee, it was such a beautiful place to work with spectacular views and a wonderfully organised yet relaxed atmosphere. Just off the main marquee we had our own kitchen tent in which to prep the food for the day.

We were to serve two starters followed by a selection of salads to accompany a delicious hog roast which was prepared and cooked on site by the lovely Eric. It was a really lovely occasion to cater for and we all enjoyed ourselves immensely.

Starter

Chilled Spanish Gazpacho Soup

Mackerel Pate with Fresh Mint & Beetroot Remoulade

Vegetarian Main

Peppers Stuffed with Goats Cheese & Pesto

Couscous with Caramelised Onions, Fresh Herbs & Apricots

Creamy Potato Salad with Fresh Tarragon

Seasonal Remoulade

Mixed Green Salad with Parmesan, Walnuts, Pear & Pomegranite

How It Began

I started out cooking at a very early age. My parents are both very accomplished in the kitchen; my mother is master of pastries, cakes and desserts and my father (although he could ruin even a simple trifle) is a real savory gourmet. At every possible opportunity I shadowed them in the kitchen, helping stir mixtures, taste sauces and plan menues. It was a real moment of achievement when, at the age of 9 my dad let me make and season the gravy for the Sunday lunch.
My very first job was at a French restaurant in my local town. Every saturday I peeled the langoustines and helped prep salads before being pot-wash for the evening. The close environment, the heat, the freshly prepared dishes so beautifully presented, and the colourful language used by Fabrice, (owner and head chef now running this restaurant and hotel in the south of france), was both exciting and intense. I loved being a part of that machine.
Since then I have worked in many restaurants both front and back of house, from chef to barmaid. Having completed my degree in opera and vocal studies I moved to Florence for a month to continue my singing and stayed two years. Working in local Italian kitchens and bars I immersed myself in the Italian passion for food. Their appetite for fresh, local, seasonal produce and simple, uncomplicated dishes really inspired me and forms a huge part of the way I cook today.

The Catering

It had long been my desire to start catering privately for people in their own homes so two years ago I set up my own catering company.

Based primarily in London and Oxfordshire I provide fine food for canapé & bowl food receptions, large party buffets, gourmet barbecues, weddings, private dinner parties

wine & food tasting events

Each event uses seasonal and ethically sourced ingredients. I work closely with customers when devising menus to make sure I offer a unique and bespoke service, as well as organising all waiting staff and equipment hire.

Working in collaboration with Jack Chaddock, of MARC Fine Wines I am also able to offer a wine matching service.

For more information about the catering including menu options, canape lists, testimonials, and online inquiry forms please visit my website www.rosekentishkitchen.com. Alternatively please email me at rosekentish@gmail.com.