Chef Paul Freeman, I am passionate about the country larder, and what the seasons bring. as a keen wildfowler, and pursuer of country sports. I wanted to share some of my favorite recipes with you. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Ingredients

3 ham hocks on the bone,
soaked overnight in cold water,
then drained
2 bay leaves
4 fresh thyme sprigs
1 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 large onion, quartered
4 tbsp white wine vinegar
50g gherkins, nely chopped
Large handful fresh flatleaf parsley,
chopped, plus extra to garnish
Few sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped
Serves 8

Preparation: 30min › Cook: 3:30 mins

1. Place the ham hocks in a large pan with the bay leaves, thyme, coriander seeds, peppercorns, onion and vinegar.
Pour over enough cold water to cover. Bring to the boil and simmer very gently, uncovered, for about 2-2½ hours,
until the hocks are tender and the meat fl akes easily.
2. Leave the hocks to cool in the liquid for about 1 hour, then remove and set aside. Strain the liquid into a clean pan,
(discard the solids) and boil vigorously for 1 hour to reduce by three-quarters to about 600ml. Line a 1.5-litre loaf tin or terrine,
with a double layer of cling f ilm.
3. Remove the skin from the hocks, then shred the meat. Place in a large bowl with the gherkins and chopped herbs.
Mix well and season with plenty of black pepper. Pack into the tin or terrine and press down fi rmly.
4. Slowly pour in the reduced liquid and allow to settle throughout the mixture. Cover with cling fi lm and chill overnight.
Garnish with parsley, cut into thick slices and serve with crusty bread and a good piccalilli.