Bad news this week as around 7,500 birds were slaughtered after a fresh case of avian flu was confirmed on a South Norfolk poultry holding. The disease was detected in turkeys on a farm at Redgrave, Norfolk, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) said today after a conference with veterinary officials. Shadow Environment Secretary Peter Ainsworth described the birdflu outbreak as “another nightmare” for the farming community following the cases of foot and mouth and bluetongue this year He said: “This is yet another nightmare for the farming community and we can only hope that this is an isolated case. “Farmers have endured so much this year, the last thing they need is an outbreak of bird flu in the run-up to Christmas.” Could be a case of no turkeys for the Poms this year.
Speaking of turkey and turkeys His Gordoness offers these pearls of wisdom for dealing with your Xmas bird. To ensure your turkey is cooked, skewer the thickest part of the thigh and check the juices. If they’re clear, the turkey is done; if they’re pink, the turkey needs more time in the oven. Baste the Turkey To avoid the skin shriveling as it cools, baste the turkey as soon as it comes out of the oven.Never slice the turkey straight from the oven! When the turkey is ready, cover it with tin foil and let it rest for at least 25 – 30 minutes. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute in the bird, making it moist and tender. Slice the Turkey – Use the whole bird. Carve the breast first and then start on the legs. Gravy Don’t forget the pan juices from the turkey-roasting tray! It’s where all the turkey flavor is stored, and makes a great base for your gravy.Thanks Gordo, thats really great advice……..
Meanwhile is Ramsay’s ultimate kitchen nightmare… Marco back on TV ? ITV today announced this week that celebrity chef Marco Pierre White has signed an exclusive three-year deal. White will make several one-off specials and series and go head-to head with his former pupil Gordon Ramsay, who has a similar contract with Channel 4. Marco Pierre will go head-to-head with his former pupil Gordon Ramsay. White, dubbed the godfather of modern British cooking, said: “For the last 20 years I’ve been asked to take part in numerous programmes and have always said no. This deal will give me the opportunity to share my knowledge and to inspire people to want to cook whether professionally or at home.”
