By Michelle Norris
Matching gourmet food with fine wines is not unheard of. However, matching those same dishes with fine ales – now that’s a different story.
But that’s exactly what the Mustard Bistro in Chelmsford are planning this Sunday. Promising an evening of tantalising flavours and delightful entertainment, the Craft Beer and Gourmet Food night is a mouth-watering event not to be missed.
Teaming up with Romford based Ales by Mail, Mustard are offering diners the finest quality food and drink in a six-course taster menu with brews selected especially for each dish.
“We really like the idea of bringing real ale to the Chelmsford area, so we are matching great British food with great ales,” explains event organiser Anne Chaplin. “Because these are craft beers, they’re not your usual ales and beers you’d find in a restaurant or bar.”
“A lot of people imagine beer tasting is just for old bearded men,” adds Richard Adams, of Mustard. “But we’re making it accessible to everyone and dispelling those ‘beer myths’ in a fun and approachable way.”
Indeed, with dishes from Homemade Crackling and Scotch Eggs teamed with Bitter to Chocolate Beer, served with Braised Short Rib of Beef with potato puree, parsley and lemon, Richard has worked hard with his chef to ensure that every mouthful is perfect.
“The key to these tastings is to get the whole mouth working,” explains Richard. “And it’s not so much about ‘matching’ flavours but also using contrasting flavours. Sometimes you need a bit of sweet to cut through the bitterness.
“If it was just a beer tasting then it might as well just be a beer festival,” he laughs. “But what we’re doing is completely new and exciting.”
So, why not try something new this Sunday at the Craft Beer and Gourmet Food night? Proceeds from the evening will go to Macmillan Cancer Support, who will be providing a raffle on the night.
The evening starts from 6.30pm. Tickets cost £35 per person for the six course tasting menu, including drinks. For more information or to book, call 01245 266612 or pop into the Mustard Bistro, 37 New London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 0ND.