Calling all fungi fans, fresh Lake District ceps are in season. For a limited time only, these delicious foraged mushrooms will be on the menu at The Cottage in the Wood in Whinlatter Forest near Keswick in the Lake District.
The Latin name for these mushrooms is Boletus edulis, in the old common English tongue they have been called the ‘Penny Bun’, many people now know them as the Cep (French) and chefs or avid home cooks may think of them as ‘Porcini mushroom’ (Italian). There is no question that whichever name you use these are some of the most seriously tasty wild mushrooms around.
Ceps love to grow in grow in coniferous, broadleaved or mixed woods, with the main season running from August to September making this the perfect time to head to The Cottage in the Wood restaurant to enjoy this local delicacy.
Ben Wilkinson Chef Director at The Cottage in the Wood says, ‘I love foraging for wild edible elements to bring into the kitchen. It’s such a rewarding feeling when you’ve discovered what you’re looking for. The freshness and natural flavour so intrinsically of the terroir, is unbeatable. Young ceps are one of the tastiest wild mushrooms and are very versatile. We will be using them in our breakfasts and in the Taste Cumbria menu. We are fortunate that our location in the Lake District provides a rich larder of delicious ingredients on our doorstep.
Due to the fact the seasonal nature of these mushrooms the kitchen can’t guarantee that they will be on the menu when you visit, but can promise an abundance of Cumbrian delights to savour including the sorbet flavoured with Douglas Fir from the surrounding forest, Herdwick Hogget and cheeses from Thornby Moore Dairy.
The Cottage in the Wood offers a tranquil forest setting in contrast to the bustle of Keswick, only 15 minutes drive away, it feels like another world. With comfortable rooms onsite why not make an evening of it and treat yourself to an overnight stay and the cooked breakfast in the morning?
To book a meal or a room at The Cottage in the Wood www.thecottageinthewood.co.uk or call 017687 78409.
