We chat with Giselle Courtney, founder of South African Fynbos, about the uniqueness of the South African fynbos flavours and the recognition these deserve. Press play to learn more!
In the same way that we guard our precious animals, Giselle believes our country’s indigenous flora cries out to be noticed, conserved, and enjoyed. “Fynbos binds us together,” she explains, referring to the common heritage shared by all South Africans. “We can all share in our heritage by cooking with fynbos, using its uniquely South African flavours.” The Drakenstein region is home to a critically endangered biome within the fynbos species known as the Swartland Renosterveld. Two edible varieties, namely the Rhinobush and Snowbush, are so prolific in this area that Giselle easily stumbled across them while exploring her farm. She calls these distinct flavours “the taste of the veld” and shares some cooking tips: “Rhinobush works wonders on a burger, while Snowbush complements a rich mushroom sauce perfectly.” Giselle is a firm believer in sustainability and her harvesting efforts aid conservation. “Our farming of Rhinobush and Snowbush will contribute to their sustainability in the long run. Harvesting conserves these plants because we do not use the roots but rather the leaves and stems. This creates commercial value for the plants.” With a smile, she adds, “We also use them in the kitchen to ensure sustainability.” In addition to the range of herbs and
seasonings produced by South African Fynbos, Giselle treats visitors to tasting masterclasses to promote the use of fynbos in the kitchen. To explore the “taste of the veld” for yourself, you can contact her for an exquisite fynbos-tasting experience on her farm. The experience entails a full two-hour immersion in the infusion of no less than 11 fynbos flavours. Through a tapas-style lunch, guests are encouraged to experiment with the flavours of fynbos, after which a stroll on the farm, with views of Paarl Rock and Groenberg, rounds off the experience. Contact Giselle Courtney at 066 225 5722 or email info@southafricanfynbos.com for more information. You can also follow them on Instagram for cooking tips https://www.instagram.com/ southafricanfynbos/
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VARS | April
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