Page 12 - Through the eyes of an African chef

Nompumelelo’s recipes pay passionate homage not only to her heritage and origins, as articulated in the introduction; they also paint a diverse, colourful picture of who South Africa is.
Nompumelelo reclaims the traditional foods of our culture with dignity and in a manner that displays the social cohesion that is so desperately needed in our country at this point in time.
There is no better way to reach someone’s heart than through food. Nompumelelo has certainly dug deep to pour her heart into this book. It is highly commendable. I believe people will find warmth, comfort and purpose as they try out the recipes to share with their loved ones.
Hope you love it.
LINDI NDEBELE-KOKA
senior manager: cultural & creative industries development, department of arts & culture, south africa
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So, why am I so enchanted by this book?
This is not just ‘another recipe book’. This is a food book that is a cultural education – a cultural barrier-breaker and a bridge-builder amongst peoples. This is a loving hand stretching out to the world saying: “See who we are,
it is beautiful, just like you. And we as Africans are relevant, just like you. And what we are is worth exploring, worth knowing, worth incorporating into your lives, and very much worth preserving.” And most of all, this is one beautiful African woman’s voice saying: “Know who I am as a diverse human being.” Because food is the doorway to all cultural experiences.
NIKI HATTINGH
food stylist & founder of food art international, johannesburg, south africa