Books – Mzansi Cookbooks

Cookbooks always come in handy when you’re in the mood to experiment. Be inspired by these celebrated local chefs

SIMPLY ZOLA: THE JOURNEY CONTINUES by Zola Nene, Penguin Random House, R290

Not one to shy away from daring flavours, Nene shares her latest creations. Unpretentious and delicious, the easy-to-prepare meals will have you wanting to cook them again and again. Expect refreshing DIY drinks and desserts to satisfy the sweetest tooth. This book is great for breaking out of your culinary shell and introducing your palate to new tastes.

THROUGH THE EYES OF AN AFRICAN CHEF by Nompumelelo Mqwebu, SelfPublished, R440

This book is an ode to Africa’s culinary excellence. Mqwebu celebrates traditional African cooking methods with an emphasis on nutrition and substance. Each recipe is authentic, and offers aspiring cooks unique ways of creating fuss-free, yet mouthwatering meals using fresh ingredients.

DIJO – MY FOOD, MY JOURNEY by Lesego Semenya, Jacana, R345 by Faldela Williams, Penguin Random House R186

Compiled as a way of preserving traditional Cape Malay food, you’ll be able to indulge in some easily recognisable recipes and discover many more to add to your repertoire.

JOHANNE 14 REAL SOUTH AFRICAN FOOD by Hope Malau, Quivertree, R278

The Klerksdorp-born food writer puts humble ingredients, popular among black families, back in the spotlight. Think of potatoes, cabbages and spinach—and how many different meals your mother would create from each vegetable. This is a truly nostalgic cookbook that will inspire you on days when you want to cook a meal that reminds you of home. LesDaChef, as he’s now known on social media, has put together a cookbook that showcases popular township grub and exquisite dishes. Each recipe is presented in a way that’s approachable and easy to prepare. Love and nostalgia accompanies every recipe as he reflects on how far he’s come on his culinary journey.

REUBEN AT HOME by Reuben Riffel, Quivertree, R350

The criticallyacclaimed chef invites us into his personal kitchen at home. These recipes are what he prepares for his family and friends when he’s not running his many restaurants. It’s jam-packed with tricks of the trades, allowing you to bring fine dining into your home.