As the sun rises over Winterborne Houghton, the gentle sounds of nature awaken the senses. It’s a picturesque morning at Houghton Springs Trout Farm, where our family has nurtured a passion for raising the finest rainbow trout for over 45 years. Nestled in the heart of Dorset, our trout thrives in the crisp, clear waters of the chalk aquifer—water that is as pure as it is essential to the rich flavour of our unique Winterborne strain. Today, we invite you to explore how to bring the essence of our farm into your kitchen with a simple yet delightful recipe.
Cooking with Houghton Springs trout isn’t just about the meal; it’s about the experience. Our fish are raised with meticulous care, from egg to plate, ensuring full traceability to our carefully selected broodstock. This dedication translates into a product that is not only tasty but also reliable and ethically sourced. Let’s dive into a wonderful dish that highlights the delicate, rich flavours of our trout while being easy enough for any home cook to master.
Savoury Trout En Papillote
This method of cooking trout en papillote—wrapped in parchment paper—ensures the fish stays moist and absorbs the aromatic herbs and vegetables. It’s a fuss-free way to present a stunning dish that will impress your family or guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 Houghton Springs rainbow trout fillets
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 sprigs of fresh dill (or any herb of your choice)
- 1 small courgette, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parchment paper
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens).
- Cut a large piece of parchment paper (about 30cm x 40cm) and fold it in half, then unfold it to create a crease.
- On one side of the crease, layer the courgette and red onion slices. Place the trout fillet on top, then season with salt and pepper. Top with lemon slices and dill sprigs. Drizzle a little olive oil over everything.
- Fold the parchment over to seal in the contents tightly, crimping the edges to ensure no steam escapes.
- Place the parcel on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes until the trout is cooked through and flaky.
- Serve the parcel directly on the plate for a delightful presentation. Allow your guests to unwrap their own dish for an interactive dining experience.
Prep note: This dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to substitute the vegetables with what you have on hand or what’s in season. As summer approaches, local asparagus or cherry tomatoes would make a delightful addition!
Beyond the flavours, cooking with Houghton Springs trout means you’re supporting an environmentally conscious farm. Our commitment to low-impact, water-wise farming practices ensures that our aquifer-fed ecosystem remains healthy. We’re proud to embrace renewable energy options like floating solar panels, which help power our operations, further reducing our impact on the environment.
For chefs and fishmongers, we offer a range of options, from market-ready trout to fry and fingerlings, all with consistent grading and size options to meet your needs. Our delivery days span Dorset and the surrounding counties, ensuring you receive your order fresh and on time.
As you explore the delicate taste of our trout, remember that every bite is a connection to our farm. Whether you’re a home cook eager to impress or a chef seeking the perfect menu addition, Houghton Springs trout offers unmatched provenance and quality.
Join us in celebrating the bounty of our waters and elevate your home cooking. We invite you to place an order or request a sample for your restaurant menu. Discover the unmistakable difference that comes from a truly local, family-run farm.
