Gold nanoparticles functionalised with a valine-derived formamide have been developed as effective homogenous catalysts for the asymmetric reduction of ketimine 1 with trichlorosilane (< or = 84% ee) in toluene. This methodology both simplifies the recovery of the catalyst and its separation from the product, as the nanoparticles can be readily removed and subsequently recycled by precipitation from the reaction mixture.