Venison a clean choice for chef Tom Hishon

Tom Hishon

Tom Hishon is the head chef and owner of popular Auckland restaurant Orphans Kitchen. He is an advocate of New Zealand farm-raised venison - a high-quality product that is perfect for the home cook. Tom has fond childhood memories of visiting his grandfather's deer farm and his fondness for venison can now be seen in the foods he offers at his restaurant. COLLEEN THORPE talks to Tom about Christmas and venison.

DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF COOKING IN FIVE WORDS

I need only four: clean, intuitive, honest, focused.

WHERE DID THE NAME ORPHANS KITCHEN COME FROM?

From my time in the UK - During the holiday period we would throw a large "orphans xmas" for all of our antipodean friends.

WHAT WILL BE ON YOUR FAMILY TABLE THIS CHRISTMAS?

A whole turkey roasted over charcoal

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FONDEST MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS AS A CHILD?

We would often spend summers with my grandfather on his farm in South Canterbury where he raised deer. Every Christmas time I would be convinced his deer could fly, just like Santa's and would stay up late to stare out the windows in the dark to see if I could catch them in the act. That, and waking up at 5am to all of the goodies in my Santa sack are the best memories.

AS A CHILD, DID YOU LEAVE OUT SOMETHING SPECIAL TO HELP SANTA AND THE REINDEERS CONTINUE THEIR HAUL?

I thought Santa needed to trim down a touch ... so I just put a few carrots out for his hardworking reindeer.

DID YOU EVER SEE SANTA?!

Only in the department stores

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS CAROL?

White Christmas by Michael Buble

WHY IS VENISON SO GOOD FOR US?

Farm-raised venison is super dense in vitamins and minerals, is consistently tender in texture, it is easily digested and damn tasty. It contains less fat that some fillets of fish and more iron than beef - so is an excellent choice when it comes to healthy meats.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO COOK VENISON?

My favourite way is to sear a short loin in a hot skillet or on the barbecue so it is juicy and tender. It's a great option for Christmas or summer family gatherings.

TELL US THREE THINGS ABOUT YOURSELF THAT WOULD SURPRISE

-I try to lead a holistic lifestyle, I feel this is evident in my cooking

-When I was younger I thought trees made wind

-I nearly gave up cooking to sell insurance for a living