Nestled in the lush countryside of Winterborne Houghton, our family-run trout farm is much more than a source of exquisite fish; we are a committed partner to local chefs and fishmongers who share our passion for quality and provenance. The unique “Winterborne” strain of rainbow trout thrives in our crystal-clear spring water, nurtured from egg to plate with care, integrity, and a deep respect for the environment. Today, we’d like to explore how our collaborations enhance menus and delight diners across Dorset.
Building Relationships with Chefs
At Houghton Springs, we believe that the best meals start with a strong relationship between the farmer and the chef. Our trout is known for its delicate flavour and firm texture, making it a versatile ingredient in a variety of dishes. Chefs from nearby restaurants often visit our farm, where they can witness our sustainable farming practices firsthand and select the exact fish they want for their menus.
For example, Chef Emily at The Larder in nearby Dorchester has crafted a stunning dish featuring our trout. Fillets are gently poached in a fragrant court bouillon, then served on a bed of wild garlic risotto, topped with a zesty lemon-butter sauce. It’s a dish that not only highlights the quality of our fish but also reflects the seasonal ingredients from local producers.
Tip: When working with fresh trout, consider using simple cooking techniques that allow the fish’s natural flavour to shine. A quick pan-sear with a sprinkle of sea salt can create a deliciously crispy skin while keeping the flesh tender.
The Traceable Journey of Our Trout
Each fish that leaves our farm is traceable back to its broodstock, assuring our partners of its quality and ethical upbringing. Our trout are raised in the pure chalk waters of the Winterborne aquifer, which gives them a distinct taste that is often noted by chefs and diners alike.
As we grade our fish consistently, we offer various size options that cater to different culinary needs. From whole fish to portioned fillets, our packaging ensures that each delivery arrives ice-packed and ready for immediate use. This reliability means chefs can plan their menus with confidence, knowing that they’ll receive the same high-quality trout every time they place an order.
Fresh from Our Farm to Your Kitchen
For fishmongers and home cooks, the journey doesn’t end with the chefs. Many of our retail partners take pride in offering our trout to local customers, allowing them to experience the quality of Houghton Springs at home. Our fish is perfect for a weeknight supper or a special occasion, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
We recently supplied a local fishmonger, Oliver’s Fish, with our market-ready trout. Customers were delighted to find our fish featured in their weekly specials, showcasing its quality in a simple, perfectly grilled preparation. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many returning for more!
Quick Recipe: Simple Grilled Trout
Ingredients:
- 2 whole Houghton Springs trout, gutted and scaled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), for garnish
Method:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Rub the trout inside and out with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the fish on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Enjoy!
A Commitment to Quality
In addition to our fish, we are continuously exploring renewable energy options to further reduce our environmental footprint. One exciting development has been our trial of floating solar panels, which harness the sun’s energy to power our operations and contribute to our aquifer-fed systems.
As we foster these partnerships and embrace innovation, we remain dedicated to delivering the finest trout to our community, ensuring that every meal is not just a dining experience, but a celebration of Dorset’s natural bounty.
Whether you’re a chef looking to elevate your menu or a fishmonger in search of premium stock, we invite you to join us in sharing the story of Houghton Springs Trout. Reach out to us for samples, specifications, or to discuss how we can support your culinary ventures.
