Let’s Eat With Siphokazi

Season 3 Mzansi Magic (*161) 20:00 Lifestyle Let’s Eat With Siphokazi (2015-current) is back with a tasty twist. “The third season features male guests and community activists, something that we’ve never done before,” says chef and host Siphokazi Mdlankomo. Usually, the domestic-worker-turned-chef is joined by local female celebrities but this time round she’s shaking things up in the kitchen and giving back to unsung heroes. “The show wouldn’t be what it is if it wasn’t for the guests. This season is going to be lit – expect flames and lots of laughter,” she teases.

Cooking shows take plenty of prep work. What goes into a day of filming a 30-minute episode? Filming starts in the early hours of the morning – 07:30 to be exact. We all have breakfast then I get my makeup and hair done. The cameras start rolling at 09:00 and while some days are quicker than others, it’s always a long day. We wrap at around 20:30 but I never notice it’s that late because I always have fun. After leaving your domestic worker job, you entered MasterChef SA (2012-2015) in 2014, where you were the runner-up. What’s the journey been like? It’s been nothing short of amazing and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’m truly grateful for the love and support that I’ve received. Do you ever get star-struck when cooking for a celebrity? Not anymore. I enjoy cooking with everyone who walks in through my door and I love all of my guests so much so that we end up becoming good friends. After 14 years of cooking, which recipe is your favourite to prepare? I still enjoy eating my own take on oxtail stew, along with my grandmother’s fresh mealie bread. They’re both easy to make and taste delicious.