The South African Veld Oven

In rural areas of South Africa of the 17th to the early 20th century, the early settlers and farmers had to be as self-sufficient as possible; all food they used came from their farms - meat, vegetables, fruit and even herbs and spices.

Baking their food was done outside in veld ovens (in Afrikaans ‘bakoonde’) built by themselves. It was either purpose-built of clay or anthills were hollowed out and converted to a ‘bakoond’. 

A fire was made inside this ovens and when it was burnt out, the coals were removed and the food to be baked was placed inside to bake with the opening sealed by a homemade door or even with wood or planks.

By Danie de Villiers (Freelance Writer)

Recipe for a Spicy Potato Dish

In South Africa potatoes are one of the most popular vegetables because they are nutritious, easy to prepare, and very versatile. They are rich in complex carbohydrates that can supply energy, but not all that high in calories because they are low in fat and protein. For many households it is even a staple food.

According to legend, the first potatoes for planting purposes in South Africa came from Holland to provide food for mariners visiting the Cape. Since then the potato industry has grown to become one of the important food providers in South Africa.

Within the South African context, the gross value of potato production accounts for about 43 % of major vegetables, 15 % of horticultural products and 4 % of total agricultural production.

On average domestic potato farmers harvest about R1,6 billion’s worth of potatoes per year. The latter comprise about 1 700 potato farmers (including approximately 400 seed growers) and 66 600 farm-workers.

Here is a recipe for a typical South African potato dish:

·         You will need 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered

·         2 Tbsp. cooking oil

·         2 tsp. ground coriander

·         2 tsp. ground cumin

·         1 Tbsp. curry powder

·         1 tsp. turmeric

·         1 tsp. ground ginger

·         1 tsp. ground cloves

·         One onion peeled and chopped

·         2 Tbsp. lemon juice

·         100 ml warm water

Here is what you do:

·         Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft

·         Heat the cooking oil in a heavy based pan, add the spices and 1 tsp. salt, and fry it for about one minute.

·         Add the potatoes, onion, and fry for another minute.

·         Add the lemon juice and water and cook for about 5 minutes

Serve with your favourite meat dish and other side-vegetables.

We as South Africans love spicy and rich food.

Enjoy. 

Mountain Shadows Guest House

Mountain Shadows Guesthouse is situated on a working wine and olive farm at the foot of the picturesque Drakenstein mountains in the heart of the Cape Winelands, a few minutes away from Paarl. The historic Cape Dutch manor house dates back to 1823 and has been declared a national monument.

Within easy reach of Cape Town and Cape Town International Airport, the guesthouse is an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful Cape and its many scenic and tourist attractions. Visit the surrounding wine-estates, play a round of golf on their own 6-hole golf course or on one of the many world-class golf courses nearby. Take a stroll amongst the vineyards or along the river that borders the estate, view the abundant bird-life, try your hand at fly-fishing in their bass dam or lounge by the poolside and soak up the peace of the estate. Great food prepared daily using only the freshest local ingredients, combined with fine wines from neighbouring cellars will ensure that your stay at Mountain Shadows will be an unforgettable experience.

Mountain Shadows is more than a guesthouse - it is a celebration of life, family, friends, food and wine. Come and visit them in the shadow of the mountain…and rejuvenate your soul.

The following languages are spoken at Mountain Shadows: English, Afrikaans, German, French, Finnish and Swedish.

Facilities and Services

A stay at Mountain Shadows Guesthouse is a rewarding experience in luxury, style and comfort.

The spacious, en-suite rooms feature exquisite interiors each with its own individual decor and antique furnishings. Equipped with satellite television, telephone, hair-dryer, safe and fridge, if required, the rooms offer the discerning traveller every comfort to ensure a truly relaxing stay.

There is a myriad of things to do and places to see nearby, whatever your tastes, inclinations or budget. To name, but a few:

·         Hiking trails, horse riding and mountain biking

·         The sights and attractions of Cape Town

·         Pristine beaches and marine reserves

·         Whale-watching

·         Snake-park and crocodile farm

·         World-class golf courses

·         Health spas

·         African markets

·         Game reserves within 3 hours drive where you can see the "big five"

For the more adventurous there are bungee-jumping, abseiling, big-wave surfing or shark cage-diving!

Restaurant

The talented and enthusiastic kitchen staff prepare mouth-watering dishes using only the finest local ingredients and fresh produce. Scrumptious breakfasts are prepared daily. Lunch and dinner can be ordered from a set menu that varies according to the season. Select wines to match the cuisine and suit your taste from a superb wine cellar. Picnic baskets packed with all kinds of delicacies are also available.

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