A Chilli Festival and a plate of Carnitas
There’s nothing like travelling is there? New vistas, new faces and friends, and wonderful new foods and flavours to experience – it just ups the intensity of life. I’ve been a sort of gypsy my whole life, as the child of a diplomat and later as a grown up with an enduring wanderlust. It’a a [...]
There’s nothing like travelling is there? New vistas, new faces and friends, and wonderful new foods and flavours to experience – it just ups the intensity of life. I’ve been a sort of gypsy my whole life, as the child of a diplomat and later as a grown up with an enduring wanderlust. It’a a heady feeling, that one when you are about to embark on a journey to somewhere unfamiliar. A mix of excitement, trepidation and adventure. For me, an addictive feeling. I’ve been lucky enough to live in some of these places, and really learn about them, a knowing that only time in a place can bring. I spent a few years in Texas as a teenager, and then in Southern California during university. Both of these places rich in glorious produce and flavour. And chilli peppers.
I adore chilli peppers and, living now in rural England, don’t find them nearly enough. To my delight, the beautiful and historic Waddesdon Manor – close to our home – hosts a Chilli Festival each year. Complete with Mariachi singers, a bounty of hot sauces, fiery foods, and most delightful for me, a stunning variety of peppers. I bought some gorgeous Poblanos to bring home and cook. Sometimes I make Chilli Relllenos with these, or bake them with a walnut sauce. Today I fire roasted them to eat with an abundant pan of pork carnitas. Imagine – with the mood and the flavours – it was like a trip without the journey.
Avocados are delicious with chillies, corn and spice. I asked my husband to help me and mash some up for me for a guacamole. Now he would say that he isn’t really much of a cook – but he decided to spice the guacamole up with a few drops of this most delicious Chipotle Pepper Sauce – and the result was amazing. I can’t make it any other way now!
I serve the Carnitas with a basket of fluffy warm corn tortillas, a homemade tomato and cilantro (coriander) salsa, a big bowl of guacamole, and as an extra special treat, the delicious, smoky roasted Poblano peppers.
So it is September in the English countryside. Or is it?
More soon. Don’t forget, I love to hear your thoughts and comments. P.
Margaret: 17th September 2010
This takes me back to some happy moments spent in LA where authentic Mexican food abounds. I love this spicy food and the wistful yet joyful sounds of a Mariachi band. Lovely pictures.
Natalie: 17th September 2010
This looks like a real Mexican festival in the UK. The colours are so warm and vibrant.
Clairetweet: 17th September 2010
Love a bit of chilli heat! Especially with Autumn on the way. (is there a bit missing from that first para?)
Michele: 17th September 2010
Hi Pascale. We love Waddesdon Manor, and we went to last year’s Chili Festival. 3 out of my family of 4 love chilis and spice. And those carnitas look fab. We make something similar when we have Mexican food. Next time you’re in Oxford you’ll have to try The Mission. It’s just off Cornmarket, and the carnitas they do are fantastic.
Tristan @ Enjoy Life With Breakfast: 17th September 2010
Looks like so much fun! Your photographs seem to really bring the food to life. Great post!
pascale: 17th September 2010
Thanks Tristan. Just about to head over and check out your blog too!
Charlie: 17th September 2010
I had no idea – can’t wait for next year. Wonderful pictures, as ever
Blandine: 17th September 2010
I love chillis! We are growing 3 different varieties at home this year and they are almost ready to eat now. A good place to check for chilli-related products is the South Devon Chilli Farm.
pascale: 17th September 2010
Hi Blandine, I’ve heard of that Chilli Farm, it sounds wonderful. Must visit one day!
Kimberly Costa: 17th September 2010
Happened upon your blog from a comment and I really enjoyed this post. I’m from Costa Rica and living in the US, sometimes the closest thing to home is authentic Mexican food. I especially LOVE corn tortillas, we have them with everything and I’ve now got my husband, who’s Irish/Italian, wanting them with everything too! This is a fantastic post! I think you’ve made me decide I definitely want cantina tacos tonight.
pascale: 17th September 2010
Thank you K. I bet you must miss Costa Rica, I’ve heard it’s one of the lovliest places on earth. I hope to visit one day!
Laura: 17th September 2010
Your blog is delicious! I miss the carnitas from home, but comfort in knowing fairy cakes are nearby!
Laura, HappyHomemakerUK.blogspot.com
pascale: 17th September 2010
Hi Laura, do you live in the UK now? I’ll go over to your blog and take a look. Thanks for visiting my blog and kind comment.
Jeanne @ CookSister!: 17th September 2010
Wow – who knew this existed in the English countryside?! I love growing and photographing chillies, even though I am not that fond of eating very hot ones (that’s hubby’s job!) – but I am getting better. Love poblanos and chipotles, whereas before I would die rather than put a chilli in my food
Love the strips of beef biltong in the one picture 