Back for seconds
Lorna Maseko is plating perfect parties and get-togethers in season 2 of The Hostess.
The Hostess With Lorna Maseko Season 2 Wednesdays SABC3 (*193) 20:30
If season 1 of lifestyle cooking show The Hostess With Lorna Maseko (2017- current) was the starters, viewers are tucking into their main course in this instalment. And it is going to be “packed with punch and tons of flavour,” says kitchen queen Lorna. The actress and presenter, who also hosted season 1 of reality cooking show Top Chef SA (2016- current), adds that “getting a second season attests to the show and that the formula works. A core element is that I want to cook and prepare food the way I do in my own kitchen. Viewers want to see that food is accessible and easy for them to try at home, no matter how complex it first sounds. I want to continue that.” Has the show’s success made you the designated chef and hostess with your friends? [Laughs] That’s what they think. But I’m always calling my friends asking what they’ve cooked or if I can go to their restaurants to pick up food. Has putting menus together become easier, having season 1’s experience in your pocket? It’s definitely become easier – it’s what I do, what I breathe, what I read about. There’s a team involved, but I have the final say as I want to be as authentic and real as possible. I don’t want viewers to think that it’s all scripted, because it’s not. What still intimidates you in the kitchen? Whenever I get to do desserts, because I don’t have much of a sweet tooth. I sometimes panic about the process. Unlike cooking, baking is a science. I have my favourites, but we twist things up with our own style because I can’t just do the easy desserts that I like. [Laughs]
What lessons from season 1 have made season 2 easier?
I’m still staying authentic to who I am because it works. We have an improved filming formula, so it takes us two days to film an episode – it used to be a bit longer but we’ve gotten into a vibe now.
You’ve filmed nearly 20 episodes – have there been any kitchen accidents?
Luckily not yet! We’re careful with everything we do… although I almost dropped a starter this season. Thank goodness for my fast ballet fingers – I managed to save the dish.
Do your food stylists help prepare the ingredients like on other shows?
They style the food and make sure that the ingredients are ready. I still prepare everything like I do in my own kitchen – that’s the only way to ensure I stay true to who I am.
Once the filming is done, do you and your co-host Thabo enjoy the parties with the guests?
Once we serve, I generally go home to allow the guests their space to enjoy their party… like any event that you would put together for a client. I think Thabo mostly does the schmoozing – he enjoys that kind of thing. [Laughs] And what is your go-to dish that works well regardless of a party theme? I love Asian flavours, but nothing beats a well- cooked steak with roast potatoes, root vegetables and a fresh salad. I love tasty, hearty food packed with punch and tons of flavour.