Orchard

In Orchard cook and writer James Rich explores the huge variety of food that can be found in the English countryside; whether that is in the ancient orchards and hedgerows abundant with ingredients or the humble veg patch or kitchen garden verdant with home-grown staples.

Celebrating fruit, including pears, plums, cherries, strawberries, gooseberries, elderflower, blackberries as well and quinces, medlars and apples, James offers more than 70 delightful recipes – both sweet and savoury – that are inspired by some of the most famous and delicious home-grown produce from England’s ancient gardens.

From Slow-Roasted Pulled Harissa Lamb with Apricot & Chilli Jam or Chicken and Cherry Tray Bake for a special occasion feast, to a simple Apple, Plum and Walnut Cobbler or Pear Rosemary and Caramel Tart Tatin for a warming autumnal pudding, James draws inspiration from seasonal produce that will gently encourage you to explore and cook from your own kitchen gardens.

With a focus on core fruits, vegetables and nuts that are grown in orchards and among hedgerows, but which are also easily accessible for people everywhere, as well as a note on foraging and the kitchen pantry, Orchard is a treasure trove of edible gems that you will return to cook from, time and time again.

About the Author

James Rich is a Somerset-born and bred, cider-maker’s son, and his family has been making a living from apples for centuries. James grew up helping his dad at work: planting the orchards, pressing the apples to gather the juice, and even helping to clean the giant 5,700-litre (10,000-pint) oak vats that are used during the fermenting process.

A passionate home cook, as a child James was encouraged to explore food and flavour in the kitchen by his grandmother, who showed him the basics and helped develop his cooking. He now divides his time between Somerset and living in London, working as a food writer and brand consultant.