Culinary tourism steals spotlight in Mzansi this Heritage Month

STEEPED in culture and history, there are many reasons to explore South Africa beyond the plethora of wildlife experiences, which is a major drawcard for tourists.

- DEBASHINE THANGEVELO

The diversity that exists in Mzansi means that the melting pot of offerings translates into lasting lifelong memories.

During Heritage and Tourism Month, we delve into a trend that unfailingly whets the appetite of travellers: culinary tourism.

Just thinking of the explosion of flavours stemming from the different cultures in the country has made me salivate. As such, let’s explore the dishes that define the different cities:

Cape Town: Gosh, where does one even start with the Mother City, which offers a wonderful food fusion incorporating the Dutch, Cape Malay, Portuguese and Indian flavours?

First, a quick historical segway, Cape Malay dishes originated in the 17th century when the Dutch brought enslaved people from Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia) to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.

Popular culinary delights include bobotie, a traditional South African dish featuring a sweet and savoury spiced minced meat base (typically beef or lamb) blended with fruits such as raisins and crowned with a baked golden egg custard.

Another must-try is tomato bredie, a hearty stew often prepared with lamb, distinguished by its rich, tomato-based gravy.

For those with a sweet tooth, a koe-sister (or koeksister as it is referred to in other parts of South Africa) won't steer you wrong. It is a deep-fried dough, usually plaited, and then dipped in a sugar syrup (some add coconut, too).

Another refreshing treat is the boeber, which is made from milk, vermicelli and sago. It is enhanced with cardamom and cinnamon spices, including sugar or condensed milk, rose water, flaked almonds and sultanas.

If you are a seafood lover, there are myriad spots from hole-in-the-wall institutions offering a rustic experience to high-end, world-class restaurants.

It generally depends on your mood.