Always keen to see how the other half eats, I scanned the menu for the Queen’s recent visit to Chequers. What do you give the Queen for lunch? I’m not so sure about the starter of Scottish smoked salmon – the Queen Mother apparently was served it so often that she never wanted to see it again. But when Buckingham Palace does buy smoked salmon, it comes from Inverawe Smokehouse, which holds the Queen’s Royal Warrant. That will add class to your next dinner party.
The main course of lamb must have been acceptable, although it might not go down well if you have American guests. It appears on trendy restaurant menus in the States nowadays, but generally Americans turn their noses up at it.
And finally, bread and butter pudding with ice cream. I hope they made it with panettone – not very British, but so much nicer than with stale bread. You can substitute brioche if you like. I have a cutting in my recipes file from more than 30 years ago which gives Prince Charles’ favorite addition to bread and butter pudding – black treacle.
For more foodie titbits join my foodies’ walk on Saturday March 8. West End foodies starts at 10.45 am at Green Park tube – take the park exit and meet in the park by the fountain.
A London Walk costs £9 – £7 concession. To join a London Walk, simply meet your guide at the designated tube station at the appointed time. Details of all London Walks can be found at www.walks.com