Multi-talented TV chef, MC, fashionista and entrepreneur, Nthabiseng Nti Ramaboa – aka Chef Nti -introduced South African taste buds to the next-generation of Afro-Fusion style cooking with the launch of her new cook book “My Modern African Kitchen”.

In true Chef Nti style, the launch of “My Modern African Kitchen” remixed the traditional book launch with DJ Sbu hosting a fun, lively Q&A discussion in which Chef Nti unpacked the inspiration & journey behind the book her favourite recipes and ingredients, as well as secret cooking tips.

 Showing support, fellow chefs in the industry, celebrities, Foodie Entertainers and influencers Claire Allen, Kefilwe Mabote, Judy Zuma, Vicky Crease and Tebello Tibz Motsane were among the guests at the buzzing event where Chef Nti’s highly anticipated passion project was showcased at Exclusive Books, Hyde Park, Johannesburg, last month.

 C.S.A can reveal that Chef Nti is hot property right now with a number of brands seeking partnerships with South Africa’s most glamorous and innovative chef, whose inspiration comes from the authentic south African cooking she grew up with.

 Drawing inspiration from growing up in Soweto with her mom and gran’s cooking, Chef Nti realised that in order to talk to a new generation, she had to reinvent these flavours in fresh innovative ways, celebrating food that is proudly South African and forward looking.

 “My Modern African Kitchen” is my culinary journey through the dishes, places and traditions that have influenced and inspired me. I love the way our grandparents cooked by taking simple ingredients, experimenting and creating a feast,” says Nti who has elevated traditional favourites by giving them a modern take.

 “In the same way Mediterranean food honors the freshness and depth of flavour of its ingredients, I realised how similar it is to African cooking in its clean simplicity and preparation. Chapter three of my book in fact highlights my love affair with Mediterranean style cooking, after having spent time in Bari, Southern Italy.

 DJ Sbu, longtime support of Chef Nti said: “I loved how so honest about the journey she has taken, the ups and downs, her loss and being able to bounce back to success. Her experience teaches us about consistency and being relentless in not giving up on your dreams, following your passions and believing in yourself. To see her inspire the audience on the night was amazing”.

 Chef Nti’s latest culinary triumph, “My Modern African Kitchen” is the ultimate South African kitchen companion and foodie must-have. Within the first month release hit  number 7 on the best-seller list.

 Experience a taste of “My Modern African Kitchen” and keep cool this summer with this Chef Nti recipe

Lemon Grass Ginger Beer

So, this is our in-house drink at Taste Kitchen, and my mom would always politely suggest that we finish it with pineapple as a garnish and for flavour. Of course, I’d ignore her. Oh, until I did try it with pineapple. MAGIC!

Treat your own guests to some homemade goodness.

4L water
150g lemongrass (chopped)
250g ginger, chopped
625g sugar
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
2 tsp yeast
1 pineapple, cubed

 Serves: 16

• Bring 1L of water to the boil in a large pot.
• Add the lemongrass, ginger and sugar, and allow the sugar to dissolve.
• Add the rest of the water, along with the lemon juice, zest and yeast. Stir well,
• Leave to rest for 10–12 hours, then strain the ginger beer
  and refrigerate.
• Add pineapple just before serving

It can be served cold with ice, or slightly warm in winter. Add slices of fresh ginger at the end for another dimension.