There are just some experiences in life that you just want to re-live and a day at The Agrarian Kitchen, for anyone remotely interested in food, has got to be one of them.  Situated in the Derwent Valley just a forty minute drive from Hobart, in what can only be described as one of the most picturesque pockets of Tasmania,  Rodney Dunn (former Food Editor of Gourmet Traveller) and his lovely wife Severine have created a sustainable farm-based cooking school.

Set on five acres of land and situated in a 19^th century schoolhouse, The Agrarian Kitchen incorporates an extensive vegetable garden, orchard, berry patch and herb garden, grown using organic principles. Also in residence are Wessex saddleback pigs, Barnevelder chickens and a flock of geese.  It was here on a lazy Sunday in November that we arrived to experience “The Agrarian Experience” one of the full day cooking classes on offer centred around a menu inspired to reflect the season.  

Our day begins with a wonderful introduction to the kitchen framed by lovely white picture windows glimpsing out to the garden beyond.  A basket in hand, we head out to feed the chickens, pigs and pick our veggies in anticipation for the six course meal which lies in wait.  Armed with freshly picked artichokes, broadbeans, elderflower and the list goes on…… we set up our cooking stations and don our aprons.

Under the truly fantastic guidance of Rodney, who talks us expertly through each and every dish, he allows us to take the reins equalling a truly hands on experience! One of the great things to take away from the day is the opportunity to learn from Rodney who is so passionate about food and the industry and this advice and experience is sure to inspire you to whip up a duck egg crème caramel or a handmade tortellini with only the very lightest of sighs!   

Of course after a day in the kitchen there is no more fitting a reward than to sit down and savour the moment.  Rodney and Severine who are committed to supporting local producers, pair the courses with fantastic Tasmanian wine and ales.  

Did I mention you get to take your apron home to?  

Georgie Wilson

For further information please contact:-

Rodney or Severine
The Agrarian Kitchen Pty Ltd
650 Lachlan Road
Lachlan, Tasmania, 7140
Australia
e: info@theagrariankitchen.com
t: +61 (03) 6261 1099
www.theagrariankitchen.com

Tags: Agrarian Kitchen, Tasmania

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