into the WILD

@warrenmendes

For many, mentioning South Africa conjures up images of the exotic Big Five in the Kruger National Park, or of the majestic Table Mountain presiding over the fertile Cape Winelands on the one side while standing sentry over a rugged and spectacular ocean coastline. But what is surprising to most who visit the country is the diverse culture and people who embody a vibrant and colourful cuisine reflective of their heritage.

Just before global borders shut, I escaped to South Africa on a food pilgrimage. I was, in fact, born in South Africa, but my culinary love for the country does not stem from nostalgia but piqued by rediscovering its food as an enthusiastic tourist. The country was colonised in the 17th century as a stopover point to bring spices from India to Europe, fuelling the growth of immigrant communities who brought with them exotic ingredients and varied recipes. South East Asian, Dutch, Indian and indigenous food influences have evolved to create a food culture as diverse as its people, who despite a turbulent history have emerged as a vibrant Rainbow Nation.

Bo-Kaap is a fascinating and beautiful area of Cape Town, where the formerly racially segregated Malay people