Durban Lifestyles by Durban Routes

C I T Y O F C U LT U R E

Winter Issue 2016 CO M P LIMENTA RY CO PY

The Tea m Producer Tourism Lifestyles (Pty) Ltd.

Contents

www.durbanroutes.co.za

Sales Galia Hillhouse 082 404 1508 galia@durbanroutes.co.za

Social Media Management Adam Waites Coffee Creative Studio 031 572 5909 www.coffeecreativestudio.co.za

Graphic Design & Layout Coffee Creative Studio 031 572 5909 www.coffeecreativestudio.co.za

Website Management Coffee Creative Studio 031 572 5909 www.coffeecreativestudio.co.za

Accounts

Darryl Moodie 078 526 5165 darryl@focusmarketing.co.za

Editorial Galia Hillhouse 082 404 1508 galia@durbanroutes.co.za

Printing DNA Print www.dnaprint.co.za Copyright: ©Tourism Lifestyles (Pty) Ltd. Reg. 2016 / 022758/07

Welcome

All material in this issue is subject to copyright and belongs to Tourism Lifestyles (Pty) Ltd, unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material may be quoted or reproduced without the prior written permission of the Company.

Disclaimer: While every effort is taken to ensure

“Durban is a melting-pot of cultural diversity, fascinating heritage, scenic beauty, large and small-scale events, outdoor adventure and world-class sporting facilities. This is a city that calls to be explored at length”.

Philip Sithole

Head of Durban Tourism

the accuracy of the contents of this publication, information may change. Neither the author nor publisher will bear any responsibility for any errors, omissions and/or the consequences of any actions based on information contained herein.

Cover Credits:

“We wish to welcome all business and leisure tourists to our beautiful city. Come and share in our culture, heritage, natural splendour and world-class facilities”.

Dumile Cele

CEO: Durban Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Kierran Allen and Gold Circle

Durban Lifestyles | 1

Durban-Bred, Lightweight Jockey Standing Tall In The Stirrups Durban Routes & Lifestyles canters up to Muzi Yeni

uziwandile Yeni is a born-and-bred Durbanite. Now in the running as one of South Africa’s top five jockeys, Muzi considers his humble beginnings. “I was raised in Clermont by my grandparents, who sold chickens to put us through school. My father was a long distance truck driver…” He recalls how his father had, from time to time, raised the topic of Muzi potentially becoming a jockey. He confesses that the concept did not appeal to him, and that he was oblivious to the opportunities that existed outside the life he knew – one of community-living and attending Pinetown Junior and later, Pinetown High School. Things were about to change for young Muzi. After a successful interview at the National Jockey Academy when he was 14 years old, Muzi was enrolled the following year. Still feeling a little dubious about the matter, he decided to take his beloved grandfather’s advice and give it his best shot. After five years at Summerveld, he graduated in 2007, at the age of 21. “When did you realise that this was something that you could do?” I ask. “When I started winning” he answers, with a smile of determination. At this point Muzi adopted a one-track mind, blinkers-on approach. His highly-competitive nature, coupled with the excellent mentoring he received at the Academy, proved to be a winning combination. His naturally light build gave him an added edge.

A stable environment… From childhood days he has

loved animals, but it was during his time at Summerveld that Muzi discovered that he has a special affinity with horses. “I have been complemented for handling horses very well”, he tells, emphasising how important it is for a jockey to have a good understanding of breeding, training and what conditions are ideal for each horse. “It will determine your success”, he explains.

Career on track… Muzi achieved an impressive 79

wins during his time as an apprentice jockey and more than 1000 wins since turning professional. He currently races every second day - throughout South Africa, and at most racing venues within KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Gauteng. He has also gained racing experience in South Korea, Macau, Brazil and Zimbabwe. He rides an average of 800 horses per year and as many as 30 races during an average week. He is an incredibly hardworking jockey, with over 36 million in winning stakes and over R 15 million in place stakes currently under his name. His ranking on the South African Jockey log has gained ground from 41st position in 2006/2007 to an impressive 05th place, which he currently holds for the 2015/2016 period. Some of Muzi’s major race wins to date include the R 2 million President’s Champions Challenge (2011), R 700 000 Ladbrokes Champions Cup (2012), R 600 000 Allan Robertson Championship (2014) and the Thekwini Stakes (2015). Grade Two wins achieved Gold Circle Oaks (2010), Betting World 1900 (2011), Betting World Derby (2012), SABC Gold Vase (2015) and The Debutante (2015).

Hitting the Jackpot… It appears that jockey life can be lonely. “Lonely are the brave”, Muzi muses, “but I have a very few close friends that make this walk of life much easier… and my family of-course”. Aside from horse racing, Muzi has made a major win of another kind. “I am now married to my beautiful wife, Kim, whom I met in my last year at the academy, when she was working for the NHRA in Jo’burg. Fast forward nine years, and we are still married and have two beautiful daughters Amu and Linda”. Read more about Muzi on www.durbanroutes.co.za

3 | Durban Lifestyles

www.durbanstyle.co.za

Fast Facts

Q&A Name some of the major highlights in your career thus far. Winning Group 1 races. Only a small percentage of the jockeys that enter the academy actually qualify. Why is that? Not everyone is born to be a jockey. On a scale of 1 to 10, how competitive are you? 15 At what stage did you realise that you loved the sport? How easy I took to riding horses and not feeling disadvantaged with my small stature, like in most sports. In your opinion, what makes the Durban July different to other races in South Africa? Prestige and the most highly sorted race to win.

Vodacom Durban July

(2200m At Greyville Racecourse) Who stepped into the role as your mentor, during your time at the Jockey Academy? Nathan Kotzen (Mike De Kockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Assistant Trainer) was like a dad to me. He taught me a lot about horses and invited me into his home - and for that will forever be grateful to him and his family!

4th

2009

5th

2010

5th

2012

12th 2014

Date Of Birth

06 December 1986 Age 29

Riding Height/Weight 1.4M / 49Kg

Name two of your role models. Pierre Strydom and Anthony Delpech. Being a jockey is a race in itself. What helps you to handle the pressure? Trust in my faith.

List five words that best describe your personality. Vibrant, outgoing, outspoken, easy and kind (my wife says).

Name a few of the most famous owners and trainers you have worked with. Mike De Kock. Duncan Howells, Dominique Zaki, Ormond Farraris and Chesney Van Zyl.

What is your favourite food? My wife is a great cook, and am blessed to have no weight issues because she loves cooking, and I love eating homecooked meals. My favourite would have to be pap and chops with tomato gravy, and when we do go out I normally would indulge in a seafood pasta.

Where do you see yourself five years from now? I see myself approaching 2000 wins in my career, and hopefully I will get the opportunity to go abroad and add more Grade 1 races to my resume.

Durban Lifestyles | 4

A Culture Of Couture A Decade Of Durban July Fashion Themes and Winners

2006

2007

2008

Theme Baubles, Bangles & Beads

Theme Silk Safari

Theme Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sure thing!

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Lisa Lund

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Etmaal van Jaarsveld

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Madelain Clark

Young Designer Award Deanne McIntosh

Young Designer Award Kabelo Modiso

Young Designer Award Lara Klawikowski

2009

2010

2011

Theme Games People Play

Theme Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Blooming Great Day

Theme A Right Royal Affair

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Natasha de Morais

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Claire MacKenzie

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Lara Klawikowski

Young Designer Award Skye Pengelly

Young Designer Award Sheena Unwin

Young Designer Award Tamara Cherie Dyson

2012

2013

2014

Theme A Material World

Theme Posh? Oh My Gosh!

Theme The Big Screen

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Mmuso Moilopai

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Casey Jeanne

Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Daniel Paton

Young Designer Award Tammy Sturrock

Young Designer Award Danielle de Bruyn

Young Designer Award Sadie Bosworth

4 | Durban Lifestyles

www.durbanstyle.co.za

2015 Theme Captain’s Table Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge Caitlin Shoesmith

Young Designer Award Carla Gerstmeier

he Durban July Fashion Experience is all about a combined flair for fashion and the fantastical. From early in the year South Africa’s fashionistas start chomping at the bit in anticipation of the big announcement - the annual theme for the Vodacom Durban July. This year’s rather enigmatic (and oh-so sassy) theme is Leader of the Pack. Comprising a world-class series of fashion contests and shows, the build-up culminates in the celebration of raceday Fashion, ranging from racy to sophisticated and sublime. The Vodacom Durban July is undeniably about horse racing, but it has become synonymous with pulse-racing fashion, fine food and all things fabulous. The two major pre-raceday fashion competitions are the Vodacom Durban July Young Designer Award and the Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge. These highly-aspired-to contests have transformed the face of fashion in South Africa in that they have thrown open the starting gates for many an up-and-coming star of fashion. Eight of South Africa’s top designers are selected every year to present their creations – a personal interpretation of the theme, at the prestigious Invited Designer Showcase. Designers including Terence Bray, David Tlale, Leigh Schubert, Suzaan Heyns, Gavin Rajah and Gideon are among the many celebrated designers that have showcased their work at this event. This year’s trendsetting designers are Francois Vedemme, Hanrie Lues, Karen Monk Klijnstra, Kathrin Kidger, Paledi Segapo, Shaldon Kopman, Tamara Cherié and Zama Mathe. Their exclusive collections will be showcased at the Vodacom Durban July Fashion Showcase at Greyville Racecourse, the Vodacom Durban July Preview Fashion Show at Gateway and at the Vodacom Durban July event at Greyville Racecourse. As SA’s glitterati continue to descend on Durban, so the city begins its final stretch to Race Day. For more information on the Vodacom Durban July and on the Durban July Fashion Experience and its front runner of fashion, visit:

2016 Leader of the pack

www.vodacomdurbanjuly.co.za. Photos courtesy of Gold Circle. www.goldcircle.co.za www.durbanstyle.co.za

Durban Lifestyles | 5

DURBAN CULTURE…

ndisputably local, Shisanyama started out, as most street food does, as a meal of convenience. Buy and Braai… True to tradition, vibrant barbecue stations are often situated just outside butcher shops, as a service to patrons looking for a quick bite to eat, often during a lunch break. As appetites ignite, braai fires are lit and vigorously fanned into flame to prepare the coals for shoppers as they emerge with their parcels containing chops, boerewors or chicken. This is often a teary-eyed affair, accentuated by loads of laughter and gesticulating, animated conversation and the odd burned finger. Meat is spiced or marinated, prepared to taste and served on paper plate.

Feast with family and friends…

A far slower culture of Shisanyama takes place at social occasions, especially family gatherings. Unlike the street-food version, meat is prepared with all the traditional trimmings, including pap (refined maize-meal porridge, similar perhaps to polenta)

and tomato & onion gravy - there are many versions of this sauce, which is sometimes spiked with fresh chilli to add even more “shisa” to the Shisanyama experience. Other popular side-dishes include chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish), dombolo (dumplings) bread and coleslaw. There are a number of fashionable restaurants and taverns in- and around Durban that offer exceptional Shisanyama. You can opt for a traditional fireside Shisanyama experience, or if you are in the mood to dress up for a more sophisticated occasion, minus the smoke and running mascara, you can opt to enjoy Shisanyama at one of the top-notch lounges, popular not only for their food, but for their live music. The braai’d meat is traditionally served in a communal platter, from which diners can select their favourite cuts. Authentic Shisanyama is best enjoyed Kasi-style, amid laughter, clanking glasses and great music. It is more than mnandi (very nice), it is eish! Mnandi (amazing!). 8 | Durban Lifestyles

www.durbanstyle.co.za

Tate’s Kasi Grill Where? 433 North Road, Mvuzane, Clermont Route 6, Durban Routes page 33 When? Mon – Thu: 7:30am - 8pm | Fri & Sat: 7:30am - 10pm | Sun: 7:30am -12pm Connect! 083 246 5634 / admin@buhlebekhaya.co.za

Max’s Lifestyle Where? 328 Mbe Road, Umlazi Route 8, Durban Routes page 38 When? Mon – Thu: 7am – 8pm | Fri – Sun: 7am – 12pm/late Connect! 031 906 1393 / www.maxlifestyle.mobi

Eyadini Lounge

Artizen Lounge

Where? 3 Peace Road, Umlazi Route 8, Durban Routes page 38 When? Mon – Sun: 7am – 12am Connect! 031 906 1395 / www.eyadiniumlazi.co.za

Where? 106353 Street, KwaMashu Route 4, Durban Routes page 26 When? Mon – Thu: 10am – 10pm | Fri & Sat: 10am – 2am | Sun: 10am – 12am Connect! 082 970 7475 / afrizenlounge@gmail.com

Nuz Vegas Lounge Where? Phambili Road, Umlazi Route 8, Durban Routes page 38 When? Mon – Thu: 9am – 8pm | Fri & Sat: 9am – 2am | Sun: 9am – 12am Connect! 031 906 9881 / 072 281 0068 nuzvegas@makinvests.co.za

Metro Tavern Where? B277 Dhekani Dlamini Street, Umlazi Route 8, Durban Routes page 38 When? Mon – Wed: 10am – 10pm Thu: Bookings only Fri & Sat: 10am – 12pm | Sun: 10am – 10pm Connect! 031 906 6546 / 074 266 3608 lunga4422@gmail.com

Legacy Meats Where? A1068 Sihle Mooli Road, Umlazi Route 8, Durban Routes page 38 When? Mon – Thu: 8:30am - 5pm | Fri & Sat: 8:30am – 8pm | Sun: 8:30am – 5pm Connect! 078 519 8453 / hlopeclive@yahoo.com

Under The Moon Exclusive Lounge Where? 53358 Curnick Ndlovu Highway, Indanda Route 4, Durban Routes page 26 When? Mon - Thu: 9am - 10pm | Fri & Sat: 9am - 2am | Sun: 9am - 12am Connect! 031 519 0841 / 082 888 3444 gideon@phungulainc.co.za / www.underthemoon.co.za

Hlabikhefu Café & Restaurant Where? 1106 Zazi Road Clermont, Route 6, Durban Routes page 33 When? 8:30am - 9:30pm Connect! 082 5515 798 / sbu.mthembu@telkomsa.net

Comfort Zone Jazz Lounge Where? 48 Madondo Road, Clermont Route 6, Durban Routes page 33 When? Fri – Sun 2pm - late Connect! 061 319 6314 / steve@thecomfortzone.co.za

One & Only Where? E943/44 Sidiya Road, KwaMashu Route 8, Durban Routes page 38 When? Wed & Thu: 10am – 8pm | Fri – Sun: 10am – 2am Connect! 082 964 3289 / dineotshabs@gmail.com

www.durbanstyle.co.za

Durban Lifestyles | 9

1000 Hills Tourism - Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got it!

30-minute drive inland from Durban will bring you to the green suburbs of Kloof and Hillcrest, edged by the rugged Valley of 1000 Hills. It is aptly named as the land literally tumbles down to the Umgeni River Valley in thousands of hills dotted

with traditional Zulu homesteads. The views are breathtaking, the nature reserves teeming with game, the Zulu cultural villages provide an opportunity to experience some of the thrills of Africa and you can enjoy a game driving experience at PheZulu Safari Park. The area is a growing destination for adventure enthusiasts, with an array of activities on offer including rock climbing, quad biking, mountain bike trails, abseiling, microlighting and canoeing. There are numerous upmarket B&Bs and boutique hotels for visitors to stay in as they spend some time in the area.

www.durbanexperience.co.za @DBNTourism Tel: +27 31 777 1874/1057 E-mail: thtouris@iafrica.com Web: www.1000hillstourism.co.za @1000HillsT

The Durban Central Region The CTO that offers it all!

xperience Durban’s sizzling summer, complemented by our warm winter season. Ours is one of the top rated destinations in the world for hospitality – feel right at home through the excellent service provided and be wowed by our natural beauty.

The rich history of our destination is best told by our friendly local people, who will safely guide you to experience

various townships, the countryside and wildlife adventure. We offer the best visitor experience for all age groups ranging from relaxing along our beautiful sandy beaches, enjoying our funky nightlife, revelling at our theme parks, to shopping up a storm at our world-class shopping outlets.

www.durbanexperience.co.za @DBNTourism Contact: Sthembiso Mdladla Tel: 031 321 5140 (o/h: 8am – 4pm) Physical address: 2 KE Masinga Drive, Bay of Plenty, North Beach, Durban 4001 Email: memberships@durbancto.co.za Website: http://www.durbancto.co.za or www.dcto.co.za DurbanCTO @DurbanCTO

Durban West Tourism Only 10kms from Durban’s beachfront

he Durban West area forms the largest portion of Durban and consists of Westville, Pinetown and Mariannhill suburbs. Its location makes it central to all of Durban’s key attractions as well as its primary business and industrial hubs. Furthermore, it offers all visitors access to key amenities, whether for business or pleasure.

Be spoilt for choice with over 90 hotels, guesthouses, lodges, B&Bs and self-catering apartments. Enjoy

great shopping experiences at the Pavilion Shopping Centre, or activities such as mountain biking at the world famous Giba Mountain Bike Park. Markets and other attractions are plentiful too, and the ever popular and widely watched Comrades Marathon and Amashova Durban Classic races run through the area. Along with Claremont CTO, we have a township experience called the ‘Umlando Tour’ – tour the township and end off with a shisanyama lunch.

www.durbanexperience.co.za @DBNTourism Tel: 060 926 7694 Web: www.durbanwest.co.za Email: marketing.dwcto@netsolutions.co.za @Durban West Tourism

Inanda Heritage Route Echoes of Durbanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s turbulent past

nanda heritage route falls within INK, which is an acronym for Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu. The said areas boosted themselves with tourism attractions that are yet to be explored and experienced by both local and international visitors. INK is rich in historical sites, educational facilities and entertainment venues as well as natural attractions, for example, Inanda Dam and uMzinyathi falls. Come and explore the INK area, meet the local people and take indelible memories home.

www.durbanexperience.co.za @DBNTourism

Tel: 031 322 2856

See the city from

THE RIKSHA BUS

A unique and unforgettable city sight-seeing trip This brightly coloured, open double-decker bus offers passengers unrestricted views of our beautiful city’s

best attractions on a three-hour guided tour. Route highlights includes the beachfront, uShaka Marine World, Emmanuel Cathedral, Victoria Street Market, Burman Bush, Blue Lagoon and other sites of interest.

There are two tours a day, seven days a week leaving from the North Beach Tourism Office on Marine Parade.

Tour 1: 09h00 – 12h00 Adults: R100

Tour 2: 13h00 – 16h00

Pensioners & under 18s: R50

Under 5s: Free

Enquiries: 031 322 4209 @DBNtourism

www.durbanexperience.co.za

Sodurba!

The multi-cultural sound of the South Durban Basin

odurba! It’s the sound of five-metre swells at Cave Rock that command surfer’s respect and tube-riding skills. It’s the sound of vervet monkeys chattering in a nature reserve. The sound of ships horns as, guided by the Millennium Tower, they enter the largest harbour in

Africa. The sound of cannons on the Bluff blasting out to sea during World War II. The cry of the Luthuli tribe, the first human settlement in the Durban area. The sound of curry bubbling gently in a large pot in the homes of Indians forced to leave their land and settle on the other side of the bay. The joy of slaves, intercepted and released before being sold at their traders’ destination of Zanzibar. It’s the sound of oil being refined, malt brewed, and steam blown out of massive industrial towers. The sound of history. The sound of progress. The sound of diversity and hope. It’s beautiful, it’s exciting, it unique, and its calling you!

www.durbanexperience.co.za @DBNTourism Tel: 076 404 7800 Email: melissa@sodurba.com www.sodurba.com

Sapphire Coast Tourism Something for everyone

he Sapphire Coast is a magnificent stretch of coast boasting 40km of wide golden beaches, graced with lush coastal forests and interspersed with lively coastal villages. To the west are the rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal, rich in wildlife, culture and history. To

the south, Amanzimtoti forms the gateway to a region abundant in natural beauty and wildlife, alongside stylish modern malls, accommodation catering to all budgets, spas, restaurants and sporting facilities. The area is renowned for its swimming beaches and wealth of ocean activities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from fishing, surfing and scuba diving, to paddling in the lagoons or white water rafting. It also has a rich sense of cultural diversity, from traditional Zulu art and crafts to spicy Indian foods and the oldest natural golf course in the country.

www.durbanexperience.co.za @DBNTourism Tel: 031 903 7498 Email: info@sapphirecoasttourism.co.za Web: www.sapphirecoasttourism.co.za Sapphire Coast Tourism

Welcome to

Umhlanga Rocks

isitors from around the world flock to the holiday resort of Umhlanga Rocks to relax and have fun on one of the most beautiful coastlines on earth. Situated on the east coast of South Africa just north of the vibrant port city of Durban, Umhlanga faces the

warm waters of the Indian Ocean and boasts the best South African accommodation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; superb holiday apartments, luxury hotels, lodges and B&Bs.

www.durbanexperience.co.za @DBNTourism Tel: 031 561 4257 Email: info@umhlangatourism.co.za Web: www.umhlangatourism.co.za Umhlanga The Funshine Coast @umhlanga _tourism @umhlangafest

Umlazi Township Tourism Experience African urban culture

mlazi is the third biggest township in South Africa with its own unique number plate – NUZ. It is also rich in historical, cultural and political heritage. It is where a new African urban culture is developing. Umlazi is famously known for its urban vibey lifestyle. From the fashion, to entertainment, urban shopping

malls, first class sport facilities and eatery establishments (Eyadini, Max’s Lifestyle, Nuz Vegas, and Sdis Tavern, etc.). Umlazi boasts a beautiful park – How Long Park (now a host venue to a number of musical shows). Enjoy 360°views of Umlazi from Inwabi mountain summit, which stands at approximately 360m above sea level. Come and explore Umlazi through its fascinating, interactive tourism route and experience a unique Umlazi township vibe with its friendly people over the much loved shisanyama (meat cooked on an open fire) in one of our classy eateries/lounges.

www.durbanexperience.co.za @DBNTourism Tel: 031 907 0995 Email: umlazitourism@gmail.com Web: www.umlazitourism.co.za

NUZ 4031

Durban To Host 30th Tsogo Sun Amashova Durban Classic

L-R: Adrian Garvey, Lucas Radebe and John Smit.

IN OCTOBER 2016

Durban is gearing up for the 30th annual Tsogo Sun Amashova Durban Classic in KwaZulu-Natal on the 16th of October 2016. The oldest road classic cycling race in South Africa is also one of the prettiest with picturesque and challenging routes from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. There is something for everyone and cyclists can choose between the fun 35km ride, the more challenging 65km or the renowned 106km Classic. Although the Tsogo Sun Amashova Durban Classic is regarded by competitive cyclists as an important event on their cycling calendar, it’s also gained the reputation to be a wonderful event for social cyclists. Entries are open to anyone with a bike! Tailored corporate and charity packages are available for more information email melissa@amashova.co.za. In keeping with the overall enjoyment of the day there is plenty of fun for all! Enjoy the food and festivities to be had on the route as well as at the relaxed post-race vibe on the Suncoast lawns with live music on offer. For more information to enter the Tsogo Sun Amashova Durban Classic, go to www.shova.co.za.The closing date for online entries is the 16th of September at 23:00 Late entries are also taken but these riders will not be seeded in the 106km event.

The Tsogo Sun Amashova Durban Classic began in 1986 and has been sucessfully taking place for the past 30 years – making it SA’s oldest ‘classic’ cycling race. The idea of having a bicycle race on the route of the world famous comrades marathon was the dream of veteran Springbok Cyclist, Dave Wiseman and his friend Tony McMillian. Over the years the improvements on the route and road closures, accompanied by a steady increase of entries year after year and the involvement of some of the country’s top sponsors has helped make the ‘Shova’ one of the most loved and KZN’s biggest cycling race.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Amashova Twitter and Instagram: @Amashova Website: www.shova.co.za Durban Lifestyles | 21

A Pinch Of This And A Pinch Of That… The Spice Emporium is one of the oldest and largest stockists of authentic South African and Indian spices, rice, grains and more. Here they share some tips and advice on how to purchase and make the most of your spices.

he Spices are an incredibly versatile addition to any pantry. With such a wide array to choose from (Spice Emporium stores stock over 100 varieties), where to begin can seem daunting. However, armed with some basic knowledge, you’ll find that cooking a curry is not only easy, it’s budget friendly and will open you up to a whole new culinary experience. Keep in mind that not all spices are made equal, so we’ll share some of the tips and guidelines we’ve learnt in the 60 years of being in the spice trade

Selecting Your Spices

The freshness and quality of spices play a big role in determining the not only the depth of flavour, but the quantity required - the better the quality of spices, the more potent they are, and the less you have to use. Fresh spices should be pungent.

Trust your nose… If you take a deep whiff of it and your face scrunches up (and perhaps your eyes even start to tear!), you know you’ve found a good spice!

A palette for your palate… A good way to tell the

quality of a spice is from its colour. Good quality spice powders are rich and vibrant in colour. For instance, if turmeric powder is made using fresh, Grade A-quality turmeric, the powder will naturally be a deep, golden yellow. However, if the turmeric is of inferior quality, when ground, it will be a dull yellow.

Never better in bulk…

It is preferable to buy small quantities of spices regularly, rather than in large quantities. Over time the spices begin to lose their flavour and colour. However, storing them in cool, dark place - in an airtight container like a masala dubba, can keep them fresher for longer. Remember that with good quality spices, a little goes a long way.

Tip:

Spices should only add flavour, so if your curry starts to thicken when you add your spices, it’s likely that a thickening agent like corn flour or rice flour has been used to ‘bulk-up’ the spices.

20 | Durban Lifestyles

www.durbanstyle.co.za

What Makes A Durban Curry It may be surprising to learn that a Durban curry, while having its roots in India, has developed and evolved into something truly native to South Africa. When the first Indian indentured labourers arrived in South Africa in 1860, they had both limited means and access to a spices and ingredients. Using what they

had, they created a new culinary language which lead us to the Durban Curry of today. An often fiery, boldly-spiced curry made red with generous usage of tomatoes, chilli powder and oil. The spices may vary from dish to dish, but the most commonly used are:

Turmeric

Cardamom

Mustard seeds

Powdered Coriander (Dhania)

Whole Cumin (Jeera)

Chilli Powder

Bay Leaf

Garam Masala

Earthy, with a lightly bitter flavour, turmeric is perfect for adding an appealing golden colour.

Used for tempering, they add an interesting bite and fragrant aroma.

When toasted in oil, the cinnamon adds spicy sweetness to the dish.

Made from the dried fruit of the coriander plant, it has a spicy nut-like flavour.

Distinctive in aroma, with a warmly bitter flavour, it is use for tempering.

A little or a lot, every curry needs a bit of heat. It also adds redness to curry.

Bay leaves add a sweet, savoury flavour to curries and when toasted in oil, one to two leaves are enough to flavour an entire dish.

Whole Cinnamon

When toasted in oil, the cinnamon adds spicy sweetness to the dish.

An essential spice blend, made by blending ground cumin, coriander, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper and more. Ubiquitous in its use, this complex and rich spice enhances the flavour of almost any curry. No two garam masalas are made the same, so keep this in mind when buying. Keep these spices in your pantry and you’ll be able to make almost any curry you wish.

Cloves

Used sparingly, cloves can add a unique flavour to the meal. Use too much and it’ll overpower it.

Broad Bean Curry

Braise

3tbs oil 1 tsp mustard seeds 3 curry leaves 2 whole dry chillies

Add

2 large tomatoes, liquidised and strained 1 onion finely chopped 1 level tsp turmeric powder 1½ tsp coriander (dhania) powder ½ tsp cumin (jeera) powder 1 tsp chilli powder ¾ tsp crushed green chilli ½ tsp crushed ginger ½ tsp crushed garlic Salt to taste 1 cup broad beans boiled until soft

Garnish

1 tsp of fresh coriander, finely chopped Pinch of garam masala

www.durbanstyle.co.za

Method

- Soak the broad beans overnight and drain. - Boil the beans in 2½ to 3 cups fresh water until soft. - Heat oil on medium to high heat. Add mustards seeds, when they begin to pop, add dry chillies, curry leaves and onions. - Reduce heat and cook onions until transparent. - Add the liquidised tomatoes and all remaining spices. Cook until tomato moisture has evaporated and thickened into a paste. - Add the cooked beans (with the water) to the tomato mixture, add a little extra water if necessary. - Cook until gravy has thickened. Garnish with fresh coriander and garam masala. Serve with basmati rice, roti and papad.

Durban Lifestyles | 21

“ A party without cake is just a meeting. ” Julia Child

Château Gâteaux, the much-loved, Durban-based, premier dessert company, couldn’t be more delighted to celebrate 19 years of decadent indulgence this year. The company first opened in a modest basement warehouse in Sydney Road in 1997 and now employs over 250 members of staff. Château Gâteaux boasts a new state-of-the-art ISO22000 certified pastry kitchen in Durban’s booming Riverhorse Valley Business Estate, where all products are handmade from scratch by skilled artisan pastry confectioners. You can find Pâtisseries in Durban North, Morningside, the Pavilion Shopping Centre and Gateway, as well as in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Château Gâteaux Pâtisserie customers can select from a wide range of more than fifty items, and sit down and indulge in a beautifully decorated environment. They can also take one of the gourmet gâteaux home, to the office or an outing. Indulgence is key and the treats on offer reinforce that. The menu includes a variety of twelve and eight slice gâteaux, indulgent individual cold and hot desserts, premium pastries and a delicious range of selected savoury items. Château Gâteaux also prides itself in its superb coffee offering, supported by a range of exotic teas, hot chocolate and superior quality natural fruit juices. Highly trained baristas are on hand to create the ultimate coffee experience for coffee connoisseurs, while charming French-themed music plays in the background. Free Wi-Fi is also available. Muslim customers can be certain that every factory-sealed product carrying the SANHA emblem is certified HALAAL. It is easy to see why the Pâtisseries have become so popular! Step into this corner of France and indulge yourself!

www.cha t ea uga t ea ux .co.za @chateau_gateaux #indulgeyourself #chateaugateaux

“At Beluga we believe in building enduring relationships with our diners. We achieve this by preparing only the highest quality of food, and by serving our guests with style and grace”. Situated on Gateway’s vibrant promenade, Beluga presents a haven for those looking for quality dining and a touch of glamour. Beluga specialises in French-Asian fusion cuisine and professionally hand-crafted sushi. A wide variety of seafood and red meat options are also on the menu, to tempt even the fussiest foodie. With accomplished, hands-on chef Steven Kruger as culinary choreographer, you can almost anticipate a drum roll when dishes such as The Showstopper are presented at your table. From entrée to final act, every dish offers perfectly-balanced flavours and expert creative execution. This is the art of cuisine!

The Showstopper Superb 260g portion of AAA Karan Beef Fillet, grilled to your perfection, accompanied by truffle-oil-infused buttered mash potato, balsamic-glazed confit baby onions, slow-roasted cherry tomatoes and oven-roasted bone marrow, finished with an aromatic rosemary jus.

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Why All The Buzz About Beluga…

here is a steamy story to be told about what goes on behind the scenes in Beluga’s kitchen. The mise en place – a French culinary term for the preparation that goes into food before service – is not restricted to quality produce. The manner in which the culinary team expertly bring all the ingredients together to create each delectable dish, is not left to chance. It is a culmination of natural flair, unquenchable passion and precise skill - the latter being hard-earned through years of hands-on experience. Consider how the mere art of chopping an onion takes hours and hours of teary practise. There is more than one kind of heat in the kitchen, as we all know after watching reality shows featuring celebrity chefs. It takes a tough person to keep a level head when the pressure is on! Chef Steven Kruger is such a person. An artist and an innovator by nature, he chops, dices, whisks, sears and sizzles up mouthwatering masterpieces to the diners’ delight. When waitrons emerge from the kitchen it is wonderful to see how the patrons’ eyes light up with unbridled anticipation. Eating starts with the eyes and satisfaction ends, not in the belly but in the soul.

An epicurean journey of discovery for Steven Kruger…

Steven donned his first chef jacket at the age of eighteen, as commis chef at Lynton Hall on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Under the mentorship of Chef Richard Carstens, Steven worked his way up the ladder, whilst studying part time towards a professional chef qualification through Intec College. By the age of 23 he was amply equipped to take over the reigns as Head Chef, a position which he held for two years, during which time he scooped up an American Express platinum five star award for fine dining. After seven years spent South of Durban, Chef Steven moved on to gain experience in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, where he was offered the opportunity of working beside Chef Mike Basset. While heading up the esteemed chef’s flagship restaurant, Shoga, Steven achieved another American Express Platinum Five Star award for fine dining. He then went on to

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“Coming to Head Beluga, and being surrounded by such an inspired team, has been an amazingly uplifting experience for me. It has truly allowed my passion and creativity for food to flourish” assist with the opening of Portofino restaurant, which allowed him to branch into Italian modern fine-dining cuisine. A year later he was given the chance to reunite with his mentor, Richard Carstens, as his right-hand-man at Nova. During this time he was inducted into the gastronomic world of molecular nouvelle cuisine. His extensive experience includes heading up The Opal Lounge Restaurant as well as the Romanza le Restaurant in Malaysia, where he explored the fusion of French and Mediterranean flavours. Further developing his taste for international flavours, and finding his sea legs aboard the Super-yacht Unbridled, Chef Steven tasted (and cooked) his way to Turkey, Greece, Italy, Monaco, France, Spain and the USA. Having disembarked, he now continues on terra firma to incorporate all these exquisite flavours, creativity and skill he has accumulated over the years, into the dishes that are served at Beluga. Diners can look forward to a journey of taste in every mouthful.

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Overview of uShaka Marine World uShaka Marine World is a water wonder world perched on the southern end of Durban’s iconic Golden Mile.

s Africa’s largest marine theme park, this is a unique combination of fun in the sun and marine conservation. A trip to uShaka Marine World means having a splashingly good time beside the sea whilst also experiencing the beauty of our ocean first hand and understanding just how important it is to conserve this precious natural resource. uShaka is home to the fifth largest aquarium in the world. Known as Sea World, this is anchored by the majestic “Phantom Ship,” an old 1920’s Cargo Ship that is said to have been wrecked on the Sea World Island. Stroll through underground viewing galleries extending through the ship wreck that provide a fascinating insight into the secret lives of more than 300 species of marine life and 10 000 sea creatures Experience non-stop entertainment for all, from the thrills of adrenaline pumping slides at Wet ‘n Wild including Africa’s highest water slide to that of uShaka Kids World, a kiddies seaside play paradise that is home to one of Africa’s largest jungle gyms with netted mazes, tunnels, stairways, link bridges and swings. Designed especially for youngsters between the ages of 2 and 12, it is jam packed with activities and interactive play areas including the giant Crabby Beach sandpit, a show time stage area known as Cast-Aways and even the new Mangwanani African Kids Spa. Young and old alike can meet Delia the Dolphin, Slippy the Seal, Rusty the Penguin and Raggy the Shark as they “strut their stuff” through the park over weekends. uShaka Marine World’s Sea Animal Encounters Island is a legendary marine adventure. Touch and feed a dolphin or a huge ray, hug and take a photo with a loveable seal, get close to majestic yet mysterious sharks during a shark cage

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experience or take a walk on the wet side as you work your way along the ocean floor as an Ocean Walker, watching huge fish and rays swim by. What’s more, there’s also an opportunity to snorkel amongst a number of brightly colourful fish and reef sharks at the Snorkel Lagoon. uShaka is known for its amazing dolphin shows at the Dolphin Stadium. This includes world famous star Gambit, the largest bottlenose dolphin in any oceanarium in the world. Also on the checklist of things to do at uShaka include the ultimate creepy crawly adventure - a visit to Dangerous Creatures. Here you are granted a chance to get up close and personal with things that are slimy, scaly and creepy, including poisonous snakes such as the king cobra, black mamba and Gaboon adder, crocodiles, poison dart frogs, tarantulas, tree vipers as well as a few surprises. These exotic creatures are said to have been saved from a shipwreck and call this exotic “Zanzibar” warehouse their home. Plus there is also the Chimp & Zee Rope Adventure Park, which consists of a series of rope bridges, obstacle courses, climbing nets, and crossings with the longest continuous belay system in Africa, and offers a bird’s eye view of uShaka. It features two courses which travel over the scenic Sea World and uShaka’s signature phantom ship. These are suitable for youngsters from 12 years to thrill seeking adults. Both the Dangerous Creatures warehouse and The Chimp & Zee Rope Adventure ticket and administration office are located in Village Walk – which also offers plenty of beach friendly retail therapy and plenty of yummy treats and meals! Finally, as the sun sets, kick back and enjoy the rhythms of live music at beachside bar, Wahooz or enjoy the delights of fresh seafood prepared by our master chef at the Cargo Hold.

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Zooming In On Kierran Allen

Durban Photographer & Videographer

Fringed with soft sand and lapping waves, meandering walkways and swaying palms… Durban’s countenance gives way to a neck and shoulders of gleaming buildings and busy, tangled highways. Beyond these lie the heart of the city, teeming with mysterious energy.

Snapshots! Age: 25 Lives in: Durban Profession: Wildlife, landscape and time-lapse cinematographer Years behind the lens: Seven Camera brand used: Canon

Favourite shoots: Anything to do with wildlife. Photographic Style: Natural, well-timed shots, with only subtle digital adjustments. Website: kierranallen.com

“I started photography back when I was in school, but at first never really thought anything of it. It was like something just “clicked” one day, and I knew I would do this for the rest of my life. I have a pure passion and drive to create things that change people perspectives, views…thoughts. If you watch my latest film on Durban, you will see exactly what I’m talking about. These days, people (often through social media) love focusing on the negatives. What motivates me is always showcasing the positive.”

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ÂŠ Kierran Allen

The Durban Film Everybody Is Talking Aboutâ&#x20AC;Ś Kierran, in collaboration with Warren Hill (Aerial Cinematographer) and Nathan Pellow-Jarman (Cinematographer) recently released a time-lapse interpretation of Durban, under the banner of Novos Digital Cinema. In between international shoots, the team ploughed two years of hard work and passion into the production into this unique interpretation of Durban - as it has never-beenseen-before. The film has reached more than 1.5 million people to date! You will find a link to this video on our website: durbanroutes.co.za

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