A Delicious Katsu Curry for Your Christmas Leftovers

A Delicious Katsu Curry for Your Christmas Leftovers

an aerial view of a table setting featuring Katsu curry with Asian slaw, perfect for using up Christmas leftovers

Photography by Becky Craven

When the festivities are over, and your fridge is packed with Christmas leftovers, why not skip the predictable turkey stew and try something new? Our Chef-Patron Eliot’s Chicken Katsu Curry is a favourite in the Brasserie and can easily be adapted to use your Christmas turkey. Packed with warming flavours, crunchy textures, and a vibrant Asian Slaw, this dish turns leftovers into a culinary treat whilst preventing food waste.

Read on for the full recipe and tips on making it your own with leftover turkey or even vegetarian alternatives.

Chicken Katsu Curry Recipe

Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 500g chicken breast or thigh, skin off
  • 1 free-range egg, beaten
  • 50g plain flour for coating
  • 100g panko breadcrumbs
  • 300ml vegetable oil for frying

For the Curry Sauce

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 bulbs fresh garlic
  • 2cm fresh ginger, peeled and grated
  • 1 tbsp medium/mild madras curry powder
  • 100g plain flour
  • 200ml chicken stock
  • 15ml soy sauce
  • 15ml honey

For the Asian Slaw

  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and julienned
  • ½ red onion, finely sliced
  • ¼ red cabbage, finely sliced
  • 25g fresh coriander
  • 15g fresh mint
  • 1 red chili, deseeded and finely diced
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

For the Asian Slaw Dressing

  • 25ml soy sauce
  • 10ml honey
  • 2g sea salt
  • 5g black pepper

To Serve

  • 240g basmati rice

Method

  1. Prepare the Rice:
    Rinse the rice if necessary and cook according to packet instructions. Use two parts water to one part rice, simmering until tender. Keep warm once cooked.
  2. Make the Asian Slaw Dressing:
    Combine soy sauce, honey, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl or blender. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Slaw:
    Mix julienned carrot, sliced onion, and cabbage. Leave the fresh herbs and chilli for later.
  4. Make the Curry Sauce:
    Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until softened. Stir in curry powder and flour, cooking for 3-4 minutes. Gradually add chicken stock while stirring, scraping the bottom of the pan. Stir in soy sauce and honey. Keep the sauce warm.
  5. Prepare the Chicken:
    Flatten the chicken with a rolling pin under cling film for even cooking. Pane the chicken: coat in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
  6. Cook the Chicken:
    Heat oil to 180°C in a deep pan. Fry the breaded chicken for 5 minutes, turning to ensure even cooking. Drain excess oil on kitchen paper.
  7. Assemble the Dish:
    Dress the slaw with herbs, chilli, and sesame seeds. Plate the rice, ladle curry sauce over the top, and place the chicken on the rice. Drizzle more curry sauce and garnish with fresh herbs and chilli as desired.

How to Adapt for Turkey Leftovers

Using leftover turkey? Skip the chicken steps entirely. Simply slice your cooked turkey into bite-sized pieces and add them to the curry sauce during the final 5 minutes of cooking. This allows the turkey to gently heat through while absorbing the rich, warming flavours of the sauce.

Variations for Every Diet

  • Vegetarian: Swap chicken for sweet potato slices and use vegetable stock.
  • Vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup and egg with plant milk for the coating.

From Christmas Leftovers to Luxury

This adaptable Katsu Curry recipe ensures that your Christmas leftovers become the star of the table. Whether you’re using turkey, chicken, or going meat-free, this dish promises bold flavours and a satisfying crunch.

 

Discover the Ultimate Christmas Party Venue in North Devon

Discover the Ultimate Christmas Party Venue in North Devon

Three women clinking cocktail glasses with a text overlay that reads Christmas Party Nights in Ilfracombe North Devon

As the festive season approaches, you may be on the hunt for a Christmas party venue in North Devon so that you can celebrate the festive season in style. Whether you’re looking to reward your hardworking team, gather your friends for a night of fun, or enjoy a festive evening with family, our Christmas Party Nights at The Carlton offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable celebration.

A family enjoy a meal at The Carlton Hotel Christmas party venue in North Devon

A Festive Christmas Party Venue in North Devon

Our Christmas Party Nights are the epitome of holiday cheer, bringing together great food, drinks, decoration and amazing hospitality in a fantastic atmosphere. At our Christmas party venue in North Devon, we host events every Friday and Saturday night throughout December. These events are designed to bring people together to celebrate the joys of the season.

Dates available for our Christmas Party Nights are:

  • December 6th & 7th
  • December 13th & 14th
  • December 20th and 21st

A Christmas Menu to Delight

A chef carves a huge turkey for a festive lunch at The Carlton Hotel Christmas party venue in North Devon

Our Festive Christmas Party menu is crafted to satisfy every palate, offering a delightful combination of flavours and festive treats. The evening begins at 6:30pm with a complimentary glass of Prosecco and a selection of canapés to set the mood. This is followed by a sumptuous three-course dinner, featuring traditional festive dishes. After dinner, we invite you to enjoy coffee and mince pies to round off your meal.

For those with dietary restrictions, we offer gluten-free and vegan options, ensuring everyone can join in the celebration. Our fully stocked bar provides a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, catering to all preferences.

Christmas Entertainment and Festive Dancing

No Christmas party venue is complete without music and dancing. Our resident DJ will keep the dance floor alive until 12:30am, playing a mix of festive tunes and classic hits that will have everyone dancing the night away. The fun and festive atmosphere will make this a night to remember.

Special Perks for Carlton Club Members

Christmas Eve Dinner at The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe

If you are local, you can join our Carlton Club for free and enjoy a 20% discount on your bar bill, not just during the party but anytime throughout the year. This is our way of saying thank you for choosing The Carlton Hotel for your celebrations.

Stay the Night: Enjoy Without Worry

A hotel bed at The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe is stacked high with christmas gifts. A plate of mince pies and two glasses of champagne are on a tray on the bed

Why end the night early when you can stay over at The Carlton Hotel? After a night of celebration at our Christmas party venue in North Devon, the last thing you want to worry about is the journey home. We offer comfortable and luxurious accommodation, so you can fully enjoy the festivities without any concerns. Let your hair down, dance the night away, and retire to one of our cosy rooms for a restful night’s sleep.

Our special Christmas party night rates make it easy and affordable to extend your celebration.

Pricing and Booking

Tickets for our Party Nights are priced at £39 per person. We ask for a £15 deposit upon booking to secure your spot. If you’re organising a large group, give us a call as we may be able to offer a discounted rate for bigger tables.

Why Choose The Carlton Hotel as Your Christmas Party Venue in North Devon?

Festive Party at The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe

  1. Fantastic Value: Our Christmas Party Venue offers great value with a comprehensive package that includes drinks, a four-course meal, entertainment, and more.
  2. Convenience: Located in Ilfracombe in the heart of North Devon, The Carlton Hotel is easily accessible, making it convenient for guests travelling from near and far.
  3. Professional Service: Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring your Christmas party runs smoothly from start to finish.
  4. Flexible Options: With gluten-free and vegan menu options, as well as a variety of beverages, we cater to all dietary needs and preferences.
  5. Exclusive Discounts: Carlton Club members enjoy exclusive discounts, enhancing the overall value of your Christmas celebration.

Book Your Christmas Party Venue Today

Join us at The Carlton Hotel for a Christmas party that promises great memories, delightful food, and an atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate the festive season in style at The Carlton Hotel. Book online now or get in touch with us for more information on 01271 862446

 

Where to Enjoy Delicious Cocktails in Ilfracombe: The Carlton Awaits!

Where to Enjoy Delicious Cocktails in Ilfracombe: The Carlton Awaits!

Three cocktails with the words Cocktails at The Carlton in Ilfracombe, North Devon overlaid

The recent heatwave has made us thirsty for cocktails in Ilfracombe! It has also given us a real taste for summer and with that comes outdoor adventures, long balmy evenings, glorious sunsets, good food, and time spent with friends and family. If you visit North Devon this summer, you will experience all of this!

But you may want to check out the Ilfracombe nightlife and explore the many pubs and bars that Ilfracombe offers so you can make the most of your time here in North Devon.

At the Carlton, our bar is open to hotel guests and non-residents all year round where you can enjoy a selection of drinks, some sourced locally, in our relaxed and welcoming lobby. Along with our carefully curated selection of wines, beers and spirits, we also offer a variety of cocktails so you can enjoy your evening in style.

Enjoy Cocktails in Ilfracombe

A middle aged man dressed in black shakes a pina colada cocktail shaker behind the bar at The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe

Our talented Head Barman Attila has a flair for crafting the perfect cocktail. His expert hands blend fresh ingredients with precision, creating refreshing and visually stunning cocktails. He is ready to welcome you this summer and skilfully mix your chosen drink. Whether you’re winding down after a day of adventure on the North Devon coast or simply enjoying some pre-dinner drinks, our bar is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy your evening.

What’s on the Cocktail Menu this Summer?

A blue lagoon, a pina colada and an espresso martini cocktail in a row on a table with a blue sofa behind

We pride ourselves on catering to all tastes with our diverse cocktail menu. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, creamy indulgences, bold and invigorating flavours, or refreshing, citrusy delights, we have something that will tantalize your taste buds.

Here are just three of Atilla’s favourite cocktails to shake up when he’s on duty and he’d love to invite you in to sample them.

The Piña Colada

A Pina Colada cocktail on a table with a blue sofa behind

Let us transport you to a tropical paradise with our creamy and refreshing Piña Colada, made with the finest coconut cream, pineapple juice, and a splash of rum. Perfect for those who love a sweet escape.

The Espresso Martini

A middle age man dressed in black pours an espresso martini cocktail into a cocktail glass at the bar of The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe

Need a little pick-me-up? Our Espresso Martini blends rich coffee flavour with smooth vodka, perfect for an evening boost. This one is ideal for coffee lovers seeking a bold and sophisticated drink.

The Blue Lagoon

A blue lagoon cocktail on a bar

Dive into the vibrant flavours of our Blue Lagoon, a stunning mix of blue curaçao, vodka, and lemonade that’s as delightful to look at as it is to drink. Great for those who enjoy a refreshing and visually striking cocktail.

You don’t have to be staying with us to enjoy our bar and sample Atilla’s favourite summer cocktails. We welcome all locals and visitors to Ilfracombe to stop by and experience our delightful drinks and friendly service.

If you’d like to try something new while you’re with us, Atilla will be only too happy to help you find your perfect cocktails in Ilfracombe.

A middle aged man dressed in black holding an espresso martini behind the bar at The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe

There is no need to book to visit our bar at The Carlton and enjoy pre- or post-dinner cocktails in Ilfracombe. But if you’d like to have dinner with us too, we’d be happy to welcome you to The Brasserie and serve you some seasonal, locally sourced food from North Devon’s larder.

Visit our contact page or call 01271 862446 to reserve a table in the Brasserie

Love Unwrapped: A Romantic Escape at The Carlton Hotel

Love Unwrapped: A Romantic Escape at The Carlton Hotel

With Christmas behind us we’re delighted to introduce a brand-new experience in early February. Our 
latest creation is an exquisite Valentine’s Stay Package, promising an unforgettable experience for 
your sweetheart. 
So just ahead of Valentine’s Day proper, why not book in for a Love Unwrapped weekend.  
At The Carlton, we’ve notice the shift for shared experiences, going the extra mile to discover novel 
ways to craft memorable occasions for our hotel guests and our local patrons frequenting The 
Brasserie.  
Working with other like-minded local businesses we’ve put together a weekend of authentic and 
unique experiences. 

Left: Eliot Seabourn-Wren | Right: Matt Fleetham
Image credit: Becky Craven

Hence, we’ve partnered with two other local businesses to present an unforgettable Valentine’s gift 
experience. Scheduled for the 9th and 10th of February, our Valentine’s Weekend Package kicks off 
with a warm welcome featuring a Devon cream tea served in the library. Later in the evening, indulge 
in a delectable three-course Valentine’s dinner at The Brasserie. 
To elevate this Valentine’s meal deal, we’ve enlisted the expertise of Matt Fleetham, the founder of 
Saunton Vineyard. Matt will host a special wine tasting, allowing you to savour a variety of wines 
from his vineyard and other coastal resorts. During the tasting, Matt will share insights into viticulture 
and the art of winemaking, offering an opportunity for you to engage with him and ask questions. 
Following the tasting, retire for the night in one of our luxurious rooms and wake up to a freshly 
cooked full-English breakfast or continental buffet. But the excitement continues—because no 
Valentine’s break is complete without chocolate—we’ve arranged a romantic Valentine’s Day 
experience in collaboration with The Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium.  
Founder Jeannette Cann will guide you through a captivating two-hour tutored chocolate workshop, 
offering insights into the growth of cocoa and the intricate process of chocolate making. After this 
enlightening session, you’ll have the freedom to unleash your creativity by tempering your own 
chocolate, which will then be utilised to craft and decorate delectable treats to take home and savour. 
Jeannette expresses, “The Valentine’s workshop promises a comprehensive sensory experience for 
couples, engaging the senses of smell, taste, and touch. What better way to romantically connect with 
your partner than by bonding over the food of the Gods?” 
Verity by Damien Hirst
Once you’ve melted, sniffed, stirred, poured, dripped, drizzled, sprinkled, sampled, and wrapped your 
chocolates, the afternoon is yours to explore the breathtaking North Devon Coast and stroll through 
Ilfracombe, soaking in the local sights. Return to the hotel for your second night’s stay, where you can 
once again relish our freshly cooked full-English breakfast or continental buffet on Sunday morning 
before departing with cherished memories to last for years. 
If the idea of a simple meal, a bottle of wine, or a box of chocolates no longer piques your interest, 
our romantic Valentine’s Day weekend break might be the perfect way to express your deep affection 
for your partner. In a world where quality time is the most valuable gift, and shared memories are 
truly priceless, let us assist you in demonstrating to your loved one just how much they mean to you. 
This Valentine’s Day, invest in the richness of time and the creation of lasting memories together. 
Pricing for this unique weekend is £230 per person, based on a twin or double room. Queen room 
supplement, £30 per person. King room supplement, £70 per person 
Secure your pre-Valentine’s weekend package at The Carlton by calling us direct on 01271 862446.
Celebrating British Food Fortnight at The Brasserie

Celebrating British Food Fortnight at The Brasserie

Along with our local suppliers, we celebrate British Food Fortnight. (Photo credit: Becky Craven)

At a time when the British food industry faces unprecedented challenges, from declining exports to the EU to the economic impact of Brexit and the war in Ukraine, there has never been a more crucial moment to champion British food.

British Food Fortnight is an annual event organised by Love British Food. Now in its 22nd year, the event offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate the diverse and delicious culinary offerings of Great Britain. At The Carlton Hotel, we’re passionate about supporting and championing our local, seasonal, and British produce.

The Essence of British Food Fortnight

British Food Fortnight 2023 runs from September 16th to October 1st and we are embracing the opportunity to share our passion for sourcing, buying, and serving locally-produced British food.

This time of year is very special and it’s a time-honored tradition for communities to come together and celebrate the harvest. At our hotel, we’re proud to be part of this harvest celebration, shining a spotlight on the rich tapestry of flavours that the British food scene has to offer.

Our Passion for Local Ingredients

Eliot, our co-owner and head chef here at The Carlton, is a true advocate for British ingredients. Since buying the hotel in 2015 with Michael, they have transformed it into a four-star establishment and focused on working towards culinary excellence.

Eliot is always talking about how grateful he feels to have direct access to what he calls “North Devon’s larder.” From fresh fish landed in the nearby harbour to high-quality meats and regional groceries, he enjoys working closely with local suppliers who have his best interests at heart when it comes to helping him pull together his menus.

The Freshness Advantage

One of the key advantages of sourcing locally is obviously freshness. For instance, the fresh seafood available in Ilfracombe is caught on day boats and landed daily, ensuring the highest quality for our guests who come to dine in the Brasserie. Nathan Townsend is the Director of The Devon And Cornwall Fish Co which supplies all our fish and seafood. For Nathan, one of the big advantages of sourcing fish and seafood locally is the superior traceability and reduced carbon footprint. We always know exactly how and where our fish was caught and it barely travels any distance at all to reach us.

Supporting the Local Economy and Environment

From premium Exmoor Beef to expert advice on seasonal produce, our network of local businesses contributes to both the local economy and environmental sustainability. By minimizing transportation distances by choosing local suppliers, we help to reduce the carbon footprint associated with food production and distribution.

Ilfracombe: A Foodie Paradise

Over the years, Ilfracombe has emerged as the gastronomic heart of North Devon, boasting a vibrant food and drink scene. The town’s “foodie quarter” on Fore Street and the abundance of dining options around the Quay make it a haven for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of West Country meats, or simply seeking local, fresh, and delicious ingredients, Ilfracombe has something for everyone.

A Special Menu for British Food Fortnight

A plate of food on a restaurant table with a glass of wine and a side dish of vegetables

Photo credit: Becky Craven

In celebration of British Food Fortnight, Eliot has crafted a special menu featuring delightful dishes like St Austell mussels, Appledore plaice, Devon crab, Exmoor ham, Braunton beetroot, and Exmoor National Park beef. It’s a testament to the incredible flavours that can be found right here in Britain. To try our special British Food Fortnight Menu, why not give us a call to book a table in The Brasserie on 01271 862446.

Experience the Foodie Fortnight

For those eager to experience the full Foodie Fortnight experience, we’re offering a special accommodation package for a 2-night stay during the week commencing September 25th. This package includes a three-course dinner in our Brasserie each night, freshly cooked breakfast, a bottle of English wine in your room or the lounge, and an afternoon tea on one of the days. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local food culture here in Ilfracombe all from £94pppn based on two people sharing a twin or double room.

Join the Movement – Buy British

Eliot Seabourn-Wren, co-owner of the carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe stood in a doorway holding locally grown carrots

Photo Credit: Becky Craven

Whilst British Food Fortnight does a great job at highlighting the importance of buying British throughout September and October, we believe this is important all year round. We need to consistently support our farmers and food producers if we want to ensure food security for the nation.

So let’s celebrate British Food Fortnight and commit to buying British not just during this special fortnight but throughout the year. By doing so, we secure our food security for the future and savour the wonderfully diverse and delicious food that our glorious country produces.

Beyond British Food Fortnight

As British Food Fortnight ends, we also look forward to October, which kicks off National Seafood Month. It’s another opportunity to explore the wide variety of fish and shellfish available in the UK and continue enjoying the culinary treasures of North Devon.

At the Carlton, we’re dedicated to promoting the local food scene and embracing the flavours of Britain. Join us in celebrating British Food Fortnight and savour the remarkable tastes of our region. Your support for British food not only indulges your taste buds but also strengthens our local economy and promotes a sustainable future for food production.

Visit our contact page or call 01271 862446 to reserve a table in the Brasserie or book your 2-night stay.

More value on your plate

More value on your plate

Everything we cook is from scratch, so we use every element of every product in all of our different dishes, which means we cut down on food waste and reduce packaging. We use ingredients that are more sustainable and offering better value, which means we can offset spiralling costs on our menu and pass that on to our customers. So, you can enjoy great quality dishes at superb value, like our taramasalata (smoked cod roe pate) – a soft whipped blend of smoked cod roe, hint of lemon and garlic, served with pickled cucumber, dill and toasted sourdough. We love this classic from the Med. Not only because it reminds chef of his first holiday to the Aegean Sea, but also as it illustrates good use of produce. Using the roe ensures the complete fish is being used on our menu. Also the roe is a better value ingredient which means we can try and offset spiralling costs in our menu.

Local fresh whole chickens are butchered and used for our Brasserie dishes; the legs in the Katsu Curry, the best in the Mushroom Chicken pies and the wings are kept for formal buffets. And then we use the skin and carcass for our tasty soups and stock bases (which use carrot peelings, onion offcuts and tired herbs). We even peel and segment whole fruit as part of our morning breakfast menu, salad bowl, which is trimmed down, pressed and used as a candied peel in our desserts.

When using our whole local free-range eggs, we separate the egg yolk for our famous hollandaise butter sauce for Eggs Benedict in the morning; then overnight we gently bake the whites whisked with sugar to make our pavlova nests.

We welcome everyone to relax and enjoy great food, wonderful hospitality and inflation-beating value in our beautifully refurbished Brasserie & Bar. Pop in and try a new, freshly prepared, seasonal and truly local dish, crafted from scratch, alongside a great value beer and wine list. We offer lunch five days a week, Wednesday through Saturday; and the very popular classic Sunday lunch menu remains. We also serve breakfast and dinner seven days a week, welcoming guests and visitors alike.