GOOD to see Luke Cockerill back at the stove in Manchester – even if it is in a pop-up capacity curating special dishes for Bundobust as a one-off for Manchester Food and Drink Festival, which got under way on Thursday, September 28.
As exclusively revealed in ToM a couple of weeks ago the former head chef at The Rabbit In The Moon will be putting his own unique twist on the Gujerati-influenced street food meets craft beer venue’s acclaimed take on the veggie burger, Vada Pav throughout the festival (September 28-October 9), where Bundobust is nominated in six categories.
So what’s different about this dish, normally a deep-fried Indian spiced mashed potato ball, served in a brioche bun with red and green chutney and hot green chillies?
In the hands of Luke – shortlisted as a Chef to Watch in the Estrella Damm National Restaurant Awards – the the mash is spiced with kimchi, coated in Korean hot sauce and topped with soy-infused pickles, spring onion, ginger relish and a slice of Cheddar.
There will be a Japanese beer pairing option, including Hitachino Nest Saison Du Japon by Kiuchi Brewery and festival goers can also enjoy Luke’s version of salt and pepper okra fries. Both the Vada Pav and the okra will be available for £11 with all profits being donated to Action Against Hunger.
This exclusive special will be served during the festival with a limited number of 30 available each day (15 available to order from 12pm and another 15 on offer from 6pm).
Marko Husak, co-owner of Bundobust, said: "It's great for Bundobust, a humble street food joint, to work with acclaimed chef, Luke Cockerill, to create something special for MFDF.”
Throughout the festival, Bundobust will also have a special dessert on offer from Manchester’s sourdough and Viennoiserie bakery, Pollen. The Gajar Halwa Danish will consist of a flaky, crisp, croissant pastry filled with custard and topped with warm Gajar Halwa and crushed pistachios.
Bundobust, 61 Piccadilly, Manchester, M1 2AG. 0161 359 6757.