As we turn in our bathing costumes and braai days in for woolie socks and hot chocolate its the perfect time to get inspired whilst cooking up a storm in your kitchen. With an array of great cookbooks exploring the beauty of South African traditions and local cooking these cookbooks are an essential try this cold season.
1.) Food Trail:
Take a journey of flavorful cooking with Warren Mendes as he shares recipes from his travels inspired by locals and authentic recipes. Each recipe is set to inspire newly found recipes with the familiarity of what we already know fusing together to inspire meals that value both tradition and diversity.
Author: Warren Mendes
Available at Penguin Random House
2.) The South African guide to gluten-free baking:
If you’ve always wanted to enter the world of gluten-free alternatives we’ve got the perfect cookbook that offers a take on your favourite baked favourites by offering gluten-free options that are still delicious. In a time where we’ve seen an increase in food allergies and intolerances, Zorah Samaai gives an array of tasty desserts whilst offering a guide to navigating gluten-free baking that is homey. Seamless and absolutely delicious.
Author: Zorah Samaai
Available at Penguin Random House South Africa
3.) Mexico in Mzansi:
Delve into creativity and innovation with Chef Aiden Pienaar as shows you how to create the perfect blend of Mexican food with an Mzansi twist. By combining a wide range of South African and Mexican favourites the cookbook brings together a burst of flavour sure to leave your mouth-watering. From boerie-tacos to Mexican chakalaka there’s definitely something for everyone.
Author: Aiden Pienaar
Available at Penguin Random House South Africa
4.) Modern Cape Malay Cooking:
Celebrate Cape Malay cooking with Cariema Isaacs as she creates a cookbook inspired by comfort and nostalgia. By adding a contemporary twist to traditional Cape Malay dishes the book comes together to not only showcase Cariema’s love-language of cooking but also creates the perfect menu that pays tribute to Cape Malay ingredients and flavours that create a mouth-watering meal. From saucy to spicy Carima has your covered this winter season.
Author: Cariema Isaacs
Available at Penguin Random House South Africa
ALSO SEE: 4 Cookbooks to inspire healthy eating in 2025
Feature image: Pexels
