Village makes its culinary mark

A Perthshire village is punching well above its weight in a prestigious competition which recognises the best food and drink the country has to offer.

Abernethy is home to two companies which have been shortlisted in the Great British Food Awards 2017.

Devil Hot Chilli Sauce from Allan’s Chilli Products is shortlisted in the best savoury preserve/sauce section, while Piggy Black Pie from Mr C’s Hand-Crafted Pies Ltd is in the best savoury bake category.

“What an achievement for a small local village,” said Allan Ferguson, whose chilli business has grown from small beginnings in his kitchen.

“I had no idea what I would end up with but I knew I had a taste in mind that would enhance not only all types of meats and fish, but cheeses as well.

“It took some time to get the combinations just right, but I believe I now have the taste I was craving.”

Robert Corrigan is the man behind Mr C’s Hand-Crafted Pies Ltd which has already won a number of awards. He supplies farmers’ markets, delicatessens and other stockists across Scotland.

They will now have to wait to see if Abernethy can achieve a double success in the competition.

“Our expert judges are now busy taste testing the shortlist to pick the final winners, which will be announced later this summer,” said a spokesperson for the contest.