Over the Bank Holiday weekend at the end of May, Blenheim Palace is set to play host once again to a three day celebration of food, fun and entertainment. Gourmet stallholders will be serving up delicious street food – with plenty of opportunities to taste, shop and enjoy. Experience some of the country’s finest grapes in the English Wine Garden, and, adding to the festive atmosphere, live music, circus performances and events for the whole family take place throughout the weekend. Moreover, the Festival Kitchen this year will be welcoming three of the county's foremost foodies: chef and viral sensation,Thomas Straker; sustainable food champion, Melissa Helmsley; and back for his eleventh year Festival Patron, Raymond Blanc OBE. We were thrilled to find out more from the great man himself.
What does being a patron of the Blenheim Palace Food Festival entail?
I am proud to be associated with Blenheim Food Festival as it is local to Le Manoir and it is a great initiative for everyone to enjoy over the Bank Holiday weekend. This will be my 11th appearance at Blenheim, and I enjoy coming every year. It has gone from strength to strength each year and I know that it is a truly enjoyable day out. Please do come and support the festival and I look forward to seeing you there.
What will you be doing at this year’s event?
I will be doing a cookery demonstration in the theatre. We have chosen to demo 'pisou soup' – a small tribute to Maman Blanc, and my Papa too as most of the vegetables would come from our garden which was his great labour of love. We, too, have a potage at Le Manoir and this soup celebrates the garden; the seasonal produce.
Do you get a chance to visit all the stalls?
Yes, I always walk round the showground to see the stall holders – it is nice to see the artisanal food stalls and try the produce and maybe discover something new. It is great to meet everyone who is showcasing their wares in such a wonderful environment and space.
Are you a fan of street food?
I do enjoy street food when I am abroad and have many good experiences during my travels to Asia and elsewhere and had authentic street food.
Is there anything in particular you have a weakness for, or are looking forward to trying?
As a Frenchman, cheese is always a big part of our culture and diet so I do enjoy going to the cheese stands and tasting the English cheeses. I like to taste some of the new beers or ciders from the local producers.
Finally, we have to be nosy and ask...what do you make yourself for dinner if you’re home alone?
If my partner Natalia is not cooking for me then I always do something like a pan fried steak with spinach or I sometimes just enjoy an omelette and – of course – a glass of red wine.
Blenheim Palace Food Festival, 24-26 May. For more information and to book tickets, visit blenheimpalace.com
