Raymond Blanc’s Royal Kitchen Gardens, 21 April 2024, ITV1, “Dumfries House”

Raymond Blanc’s Royal Kitchen Gardens takes viewers on a culinary journey as the renowned chef returns to the majestic Dumfries House in Ayrshire. In this episode, airing on ITV1 on Sunday 21 April, viewers will be treated to a combination of gardening, cooking, and the exploration of rare breeds.

Blanc commences his journey in the Education Garden, a haven of horticultural knowledge and a testament to the estate’s commitment to imparting gardening skills to the next generation. He then showcases his culinary prowess by preparing a classic dish, aubergine parmigiana, a hearty and flavourful creation that epitomises comfort food.

The focus shifts to poultry as farm manager Denise introduces the rare breeds of chickens that call Dumfries House their home. These chickens are not just ornamental; they are an integral part of the estate’s commitment to sustainability and fresh produce. Blanc seizes the opportunity to utilise their freshly laid eggs in one of his signature dishes, the Comte cheese souffle. This dish, often feared by home cooks, is demystified by Blanc’s expert hands, showcasing his ability to create exquisite cuisine from the simplest of ingredients.

“Dumfries House” offers a delightful blend of gardening, cuisine, and sustainability. It showcases the beauty of Dumfries House and its commitment to education and conservation. Blanc’s culinary creations, utilising the estate’s fresh produce, are sure to inspire viewers to embrace the flavours of the season and perhaps even tackle a challenging dish or two.

Raymond Blanc’s Royal Kitchen Gardens airs on ITV1 at 11:30 am on Sunday, 21 April 2024.