It was my mum’s birthday yesterday, so a good excuse to invite my parents over for a meal. But being out all day my prep time was a little limited, so rather than doing something requiring hours of prep I thought I’d opt for interesting ingredients cooked simply (and quickly!) So the other day, I did a little Googling, looking for obscure meats – and within a minute I’d found a supplier in Bristol that sells amongst other things crocodile, ostrich, kangaroo, springbok, zebra and camel. So last night my parents sampled a mixed grill of ostrich and kangaroo (with wild garlic mash and early season asparagus) which I’m glad to say they seemed to enjoy.

For the starter however I had crocodile to work with, and for most of yesterday I didn’t have any idea of what to do with it. Fortunately, yesterday was a day of inspiration. Having the day off of work, I met up with my brother and gate-crashed whilst he was directing the wine shoot for this week’s Saturday Kitchen. The lovely Susy Atkins was selecting the wines this week, and although I won’t tell you what her wine recommendations are (you’ll have to catch it Saturday at 10am on BBC1), I will say that her selection inspired me. So I picked up the ingredients based on the wine and improvised a little mango salsa (with red chilli, spring onion, coriander, lemon juice and olive oil) to go with the crocodile. There was the risk that it could have been a little powerful for the gently pan-fried crocodile goujons, but I think it worked perfectly. And the wine could not have been better with it!

So thanks Andy for letting me tag along, and Susy for the recommendations. Oh, and Dean for letting me geek-out over the camera and Sarah for looking after me! And of course, Katharine for the chocolate orange pudding.