Trout Chowder at Two Dam Sustainable Trout Farm

I know this post is so late since we visited Two Dam Trout Farm in Montagu during the winter months. The visit there was everything I needed at that moment ; inspiring people, amazing produce, solitude and nature.
The accommodation, Kingfisher Cottage is on a working Trout Farm. Situated next to the main farmhouse where Marco and Vivian Harms lives. Still private enough, the cottage is small and cosy with a fireplace and all you will need.
The farm offers a few hiking trails and even though the Western Cape is in an extreme drought the landscape is still one of the most beautiful in the world.
Marco took us on a tour of the Rainbow Trout Farm. It was inspiring to hear what Marco and Vivian were achieving. They are extremely focussed on responsible farming and production and are 100% off the grid.
Before we arrived we ordered an array of products that were waiting for us at our cottage. From Gravlax to Whole Fresh Trouts ready to be grilled on an open fire. I highly recommend you plan your weekend and menu around these lovely Trout products. Order some Gravlax or cold smoked trout slivers and all you have to do is bring some bagels and cream cheese! Breakfast sorted!

Ingredients

1 chopped onion
3 chopped baby leeks
2-3  chopped medium carrots
4 chopped rashers of pancetta or smokey bacon
1 clove garlic
4 medium potatoes cubed
2-3  chopped baby fennel
100g chopped in half baby asparagus
100g-150g flaked hot smoked trout from Two Dam Sustainable
3 heaped tbs crème fraîche or sour cream
500 ml boiling water
1 tbs chopped fresh dill
salt and pepper

Recipe

On medium heat sweat the onions and leeks for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and pancetta and stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks. Add the carrots and fennel and let it cook for another 5 minutes or so. Now add the flaked trout, potatoes and boiling water, salt and pepper and cook for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are soft. Once the potatoes are soft add the crème fraîche, dill and asparagus. Do not overcook the asparagus. Check your seasoning before serving and top with a few fresh dill leaves.