Hi I’m Aletta
Your South African Food Guru.
As a home cook with deep roots in South Africa, I have dedicated my culinary journey to perfecting beloved recipes that celebrate my heritage. With 20 years of cooking experience in South Africa and 25 years in the USA, I have developed a unique perspective that allows me to blend traditional flavors with American ingredients.
My passion for cooking goes beyond mere recipes; it’s about sharing the rich culture and history of South African cuisine while making it accessible and appealing to American palates.
Through countless experiments in my kitchen, I have refined classic South African dishes to resonate with the tastes of my friends and family in the USA. My goal is to create recipes that retain their authentic roots while adapting them to local ingredients and preferences. Whether it’s a savory potjie or a sweet melktert, I strive to ensure that each dish not only honors its origins but also delights those who enjoy it. By bridging the gap between these two culinary worlds, I aim to bring a taste of South Africa to American kitchens, one recipe at a time.
Cooking has always been my way of expressing my love for others, and I’m thrilled to share my culinary adventures with you.
My perfect day is one where I can share my heritage and teach the grand children how to make these South African favorites.
As a family, many of our conversations are around food and cooking; even the grandchildren know their way around the kitchen.
Join us on this great adventure in the kitchen and on our travels!
My Favourite Recipes
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My Food Philosophy
My food philosophy centers around the idea that good food is made with love. This love begins with choosing high-quality ingredients, infusing each dish with a smile as you cook, and sharing the experience with family and friends. I believe in celebrating natural flavors and transforming cooking into an enjoyable, memorable adventure that brings people together and get them talking.
I am passionate about cooking as a family affair; the sooner children learn to cook, the more confidence they’ll gain as adults. I’m proud to say that I cook with all seven of our grandkids
Whether creating simple or elaborate dishes, I approach cooking with curiosity and respect for tradition, always aiming for satisfaction. With confidence in the kitchen, your culinary creations can be as boundless as your imagination, enhanced by an understanding of ingredient pairings and a willingness to try something new.
On this website, you’ll find my takes on South African favorites—sometimes classic recipes, often with a modern twist—crafted with the unique ingredients available to me here in Texas and occasionally complemented by special imports. Join me and my family as we embrace our motto: “Cook with love, and your loved ones will cook with you.“
A Few Fun Tidbits About Me
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I can cook with very little: With years of experience I can open the fridge and pantry and make a meal from what ever I have available. It about being creative, and seeing opportunities in each ingredient.
The more the merrier: We love family and friends and putting a celebration together for a large group is not a challenge, but an opportunity to share our love for cooking.
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Culinary Explorer: We love traveling, and one of the highlights of each trip is taking cooking lessons from a local chef. There are several stories and recipes from our travel.
Baking bread: During a trip to Italy, we got a “mother yeast starter.” It has been in the chefs family for more than 85 years. I have fed and loved it for more than 10 years. Baking with a starter yeast makes all the difference.
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Eating with family: We eat with our adult kids and their families three times a week, and with our best friends once a week. This is how we stay connected, and share our love.
Speedy Chef: I can put a delicious meal together in no time. The secret is in “mise and place,” making sure your prep is done before putting the meal together.
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Get My Worldwide Bestseller, Cooking Arts.
It will be packed with my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and personal stories that I can’t wait to share with you. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this cookbook is designed to inspire and guide you in the kitchen.
