YOU may wonder what the vegetable, Allium Ampeloprasum, usually associated with the patron saint of Wales, and the evergreen plant, Coffea, found in 18th Century in the highlands of Ethiopia, have in common.
They both have a story to tell and both feature on the menu of The Apothocoffee Shop in Earls Barton. The Jeyes family endeavour to support and encourage Northamptonshire produce and they love quirky tales.
The humble vegetable, known to us as a leek, is historically significant to Earls Barton been brought to the fertile soil by King David of Scotland, (at times referred to as St. David). What is a Barton Leek? The answer is simple – only a person born in the village can hold this proud title. To this day, the leek is honoured by a feast on Shrove Tuesday serving the traditional leek pie, a recipe followed for many years with cuttings of beef and pork.
At The Apothocoffee Shop, savoury chef Amanda, renowned for her home-made soups and quiches, has created her own recipe – a delicious Cheesy Leek Pie with her own twist of flavours, suitable for vegetarians too. It has become a very popular dish on the menu. You don’t have to be a Barton Leek to enjoy this treat.
Recently Pip and Anna Jeyes enjoyed a weekend of fun in Spain for their cousin’s hen party coming back with a new contact, Amelia, after discovering The Great Brington Coffee company, created by her parents, Joe and Sarah Sacarello. Their locally roasted Arabica coffee has been served in The Apothocoffee Shop ever since.
Lynn, star-baker at Jeyes, is renowned for her sponge cakes, cupcakes and muffins, and uses the coffee in her delicious coffee and walnut cake – as the subtle blueberry Arabica flavours blend perfectly together. It’s yummy – spoil yourself!
Due to the success of Jeylato’s ice cream bar and the children’s Tractor Ted area the Jeyes family have again extended the seating area. While the little ones play, the grown ups can enjoy refreshments there too, including the Italian dessert, Affogato al caffe, vanilla ice cream drowning in hot expresso coffee – from Great Brington, of course.
These are just two of the imaginative uses of local produce featured in The Apothocoffee Shop menu at Jeyes on The Square, Earls Barton – pay a visit soon having the chance to see how Northamptonshire is fast becoming known not only for stately homes, inspiring churches and shoes, but a destination for foodies too.
The Apothocoffee Shop, Jeyes on The Square, Earls Barton, NN6 0NA, telephone 01604 810289 or visit www.jeyesofearlsbarton.co.uk. Opening hours Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm.