As the leaves turn to shades of amber and gold, and the air becomes crisp in Winterborne Houghton, there’s a certain magic in the kitchen that beckons. Autumn is not just a season; it’s an invitation to explore hearty flavours and comforting dishes. At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we believe that our distinctive Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, raised in pure chalk spring water, is the perfect ingredient to elevate your autumn culinary creations.
The Essence of Autumn Cooking
When autumn arrives, so does a bounty of ingredients that pair beautifully with our trout. Think earthy root vegetables, fragrant herbs, and the comforting warmth of spices. Our rainbow trout, known for its delicate yet rich flavour, can be the star of your seasonal dishes. Imagine the vibrant colours of roasted carrots and parsnips, drizzled with honey and thyme, served alongside succulent fillets of our trout.
With over 45 years of expertise in cultivating these fish from egg to plate, we ensure every bite is a testament to quality and traceability. Our fish flourish in the crystal-clear waters of the Winterborne aquifer, where they absorb the natural minerals that enhance their flavour profile.
A Culinary Pairing
Consider crafting a simple yet elegant dish: Pan-Seared Winterborne Trout with Root Vegetable Medley. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 2 fillets of Winterborne rainbow trout
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 parsnips, sliced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
- Toss the carrots, parsnips, and onion in olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Spread them on a baking tray and roast for 25 minutes until tender.
- While the vegetables are roasting, heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Season the trout fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place the fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy, then gently flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Serve the trout alongside the roasted vegetables, garnished with lemon wedges.
This dish not only showcases the wonderful taste of our trout but also celebrates the seasonal produce available right now in Dorset.
A Quick Tip for Chefs
To ensure you maintain the highest quality, always check the sizing of your trout fillets when placing an order. At Houghton Springs, we provide consistent grading options, from around 300g to 1.5kg, making it easy to choose the right size for your needs. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or crafting a dish for the lunch menu, we’ve got you covered.
Sourcing and Reliability
At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we pride ourselves on our commitment to providing traceable and reliable produce for both restaurants and fisheries. Our aquifer-fed farm ensures that we deliver trout rich in flavour and freshness. We carefully manage our resources, using water-wise farming practices that respect the environment while yielding exceptional fish.
We deliver across Dorset and nearby counties, with flexible lead times to suit your needs. Our fish can be ordered whole, portioned, or ice-packed, ensuring they arrive in perfect condition.
Harvesting Nature’s Gift
As we embrace the autumn months, we encourage you to explore the delightful possibilities that Winterborne trout brings to your table. From simple weeknight meals to exquisite dining experiences, the versatility of our fish is boundless.
The joy of cooking with ingredients that are not only delicious but also responsibly sourced is something we cherish deeply. Join us in celebrating the seasons with dishes that honour the land and water that nurture our extraordinary trout.
Are you ready to bring the taste of our farm to your kitchen? Reach out to us today to place an order or request samples. Let’s create something special together this autumn!






























