Flavour Profile Q&A: Kim Cameron, founder of the Gin Bothy and new drinks business, Hipflask Spirits

Kim tells us about her guilty food pleasures and favourite ingredients
Kim Cameron of The Gin BothyKim Cameron of The Gin Bothy
Kim Cameron of The Gin Bothy

What’s your favourite ingredient?

In gin it would be heather, in food - fresh coriander.

Do you have a guilty food pleasure

It’s trendy now but I’ve always liked fish finger sandwiches with white bread and juicy tomatoes.

Tell us about your first food memory?

My dad was a butcher so my earliest memories were producing. I learnt about his job from an early age. We would go to markets together and I’d stand on a stool to fillet chicken supremes, make sausages and steak pies.

What’s your favourite Scottish restaurant, deli or cafe?

The NewportThe Newport
The Newport
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When we can, I can’t wait to visit The Newport, as Jamie Scott and the team create flavours that I love. Close second, if I’m in Glasgow, it’d be Hanoi Bike Shop on Byres Road for their peanut satay.

What would be your last supper?

The starter would be a classic Scottish seafood platter with samphire, beetroot and tomato, then Scottish beef as a main with lots of veggies. Simple but memorable.

Starter or pudding?

Hanoi Bike ShopHanoi Bike Shop
Hanoi Bike Shop

My head says starter but my belly always goes for pudding.

Do you have any food hates?

It would have to be liver. The smell is something else.

What would be served at your dream dinner party and who would you invite?

I love a mezze of little dishes so you can keep everyone happy and still enjoy full on flavour. We’d also have a creme brûlée with fruity compote and fresh shortbread on the side. It’s a cliche but I miss my family and friends getting round a table, so no celebs at this dinner, just good banter and great gin.

What's your favourite geographical foodie destination?

Northern Thailand opened my eyes to amazing new flavours but I would love to revisit Italy and go on a foodie adventure. When not making gin, we love exploring. As we are nestled in the Angus glens, that includes walks up the hills or coastal rambles. Having a wee hipflask en route always makes the summit more welcoming and is the perfect toast to the beautiful surroundings.

The first release of Sloe Bramble RRP £15 and Golden Spiced Rum RRP £18 are available in a 20cl bottle from www.hipflaskspirits.co.uk and Amazon.

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