A deli is the ideal place to start your picnic planning. We asked Farrington’s Farm Shop and Deli to talk us through the counter…
“With warm sunny days, long evenings and the countryside looking oh so glorious, eating alfresco is a must this month. The traditional picnic is the perfect way to make the most of the weather, and done right, is a wonderful (and very delicious) spectacle.
Dig out your tartan blanket as we look at how to balance your picnic basket with classic flavours and handmade delicacies…
Hearty Show Stoppers
The core of the quintessential picnic has to be traditional pork pies and scotch eggs. Not only do these classics travel better than Bear Grylls, they also pack a punch on the flavour scale when paired with a fruity chutney. Try finding a farmshop like Farrington’s that hand-make their own using pork from local farms; they always taste superior. Chorizo and black pudding varieties put a twist on the traditional, and for vegetarians, there is a cheese and onion scotch egg.
Non-Stop Nibbles
Cast out the crisps this summer in favour of something a little fresher. Jam jars of olives and batons of new season vegetables are an ideal way to graze without the guilt. In June, you will see fresh produce springing up in farm shops, so while you’re out connecting with the countryside, it only seems appropriate to go local with your greens.
We’re Crackers for Pâtés and Cheese
The humble cracker is the foundation of good picnic grub. Cornish Charcuterie makes delicious pâtés, which come picnic-ready in their own Kilner-style jars. Most decent delis or farm shops will have an extensive selection of British and European cheeses for you to choose from, which are marvellous matched with West Country pickles and preserves. It’s the perfect opportunity to ask the deli’s assistant and try something new.
Summer Sweets
A travel-friendly tray bake cut into bite-sized pieces is a handy picnic pud. Other one-mouthful morsels available on the deli at Farrington’s include Sicilian Cannoli and Aragostine (that’s Italian pastries to you and me), which come filled with a creamy lemon, pistachio or chocolate–hazelnut filling. These can also be made at home using a few simple ingredients. You can easily get hold of sweet cannoli shells in most large retailers and simply fill with a little lemon curd, or why not add some clotted cream for a West Country take on an Italian classic?”