WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Pronounced “sal-suh-fee”, salsify is a root vegetable that’s been Ryan’s favourite ingredient ever since he cooked with it in London. “I think it tastes like Jerusalem artichoke on steroids,” he says. “It’s an heirloom vegetable and takes a very long time to grow. It’s quite unknown, but has a strong history behind it, so it’s quite fitting for this space.” Although salsify is not commercially available in South Africa, Ryan has found a supplier to grow it for him and says diners will soon see what all the fuss is about.

His favourite way to eat it? Cooked sous vide, then pan-fried in beurre noisette with a bit of thyme.