Overview

Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavours and rich history of South Africa with this collection of recipes inspired by ancestral traditions. From hearty curries to delicate pastries, each dish in this cookbook reflects the cultural tapestry of the region, celebrating the diverse influences that have shaped South African cuisine over generations. Discover the soulful essence of traditional cooking, passed down through time, and bring the spirit of your ancestors into your kitchen with every delicious bite. Devanni, a talented author hailing from the vibrant landscapes of South Africa, delves into her rich ancestral heritage to bring forth a tantalising culinary journey in her latest book. With a passion for preserving tradition and flavour, Devanni's collection offers a delightful fusion of cultural essence and modern gastronomy, inviting readers to savour the authentic tastes of her roots while exploring the diverse culinary landscape of South Africa.

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9780645196887

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Devanni Ambalavanam has shared a wealth of information in her cookbook 'Recipes of my Heritage.' This book not only depicts our traditional Indian foods but also the days in the lives of our esteemed forefathers who were shipped into Natal from Madras in South India around the 1860's, to work as indentured workers in the sugarcane plantations of KwaZulu-Natal. We indeed embrace our Heritage as South Africans of Indian origin who have managed to hold onto our ancestral roots whilst living in the apartheid era. Devanni has masterfully described the Indian culture and cuisine as this book contains specialities of snacks, curries and medicinal foods. The authentic 'bunny chow originating in Durban is a truly 'Proudly South African' Indian food. Today's culture will be pleasantly surprised by the recipes in this cookbook. Devanni has described Indian cooking with passion and creativity. She shares the Knowledge of our esteemed ancestors bringing light to their foods that are forgotten and to educate future generations. The fact that every Indian bride is given a grinding stone as a gift from her mother on her wedding day is indictive of our forefathers maintaining our rich heritage of spices culture. I have found that this cookbook has some valuable lessons on medicinal foods as well, e.g. the vegetable 'bitter gourds' has enormous health benefits in lowering high blood sugar levels in diabetics and the birth masala spice is used to treat moms who have given birth. Birth masala is also used in the treatment of colds and flu. Masala Tea served with beautiful tea sets is a Proudly South African tradition. Devanni acknowledges our grandmothers' contribution to society. Our grandmothers were skilled in needlework, sewing and embroidery. Entertainment was enjoyed in the forms of the sari queen contest for the women and soccer and cricket for the men. These were the highlights of the Indian community. We love and honour our Indian food, culture and heritage. Love and blessings, Pastor Silas James. Gateway Ministries. Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Devanni has truly reached her goal of transporting the reader back to the ancient South African Indian kitchen. I am filled with nostalgia as I picture my own grandparents boiling peanuts and making delicious curries while reading this book. Her simple descriptions allow the reader to genuinely place themselves in colonial and apartheid South Africa through the experiences of an Indian. Her easy-to-follow recipes sound mouth-wateringly delicious and make the reader crave a good home cooked meal. In a world full of fast and unhealthy food there is nothing like a delicious meal cooked with love by a mother or grandmother. As a young millennial ""Recipes of my Heritage"" has renewed my appreciation for my ancestors who worked tirelessly in abusive and unfair conditions so that -hundreds of years later- I can live a privileged life. I sincerely commend Devanni on so beautifully putting across the way of life that older generations had to live and the joy that food brought into their difficult lives. This is a brilliant and easy read; I cannot wait to see what more she has in store for the future. Vanessa Mohanlal, English Teacher.

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