Pretoria - August 2020

PRETORIA 

Less is more 

5ingredient 

dinners 

COSY AT 

HOME 

Best 

beauty buys 

to look Zoom 

ready 

DUNAY DARREN 

Life away from 

the limelight 

SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD 

[PAGENO] Get It Joburg West [MONTH] [YEAR] AUGUST 2020

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GET STRAP STRAP 

CONTENTS 

GET IT 

Editorial 

Instagram: @getitptamagazine 

Facebook: Get It Pretoria Magazine 

Website: getitmagazine.co.za/pretoria 

National Group Editor and National Sales 

Kym Argo 

kyma@caxton.co.za 

Facebook and Instagram: 

Get It National Magazines 

Website: getitmagazine.co.za 

Workflow & Studio Manager Megan Brett 

Subeditor Rose Chinery 

Contributors Rialien Furstenberg 

Head of sales 

Bianca Pretorius 

biancap@rekord.co.za 

WHY DON’T YOU... 

04 Watch great shows and movies at home, learn about wine, take in a 

live-stream concert or discover a new way to run for charity 

08 Fight the boredom blues with riveting reads 

WISH LIST 

10 Amazing ideas to turn August into an awesome month 

PEOPLE 

12 Forget the limelight – Dunay Darren prefers lending a 

hand where it’s needed. 

BEAUTY & FASHION 

14 Zoom in on our top finds for good looking virtual meetings 

16 Comfy? Toasty-warm? Yes, please! Dowdy? Never! We’ve done our 

sums and cosy+glam fashion is the right answer 

HEALTH 

18 Give the colour purple a go … provided it’s on your plate 

Distribution 

15 000 copies monthly 

Get It Pretoria is distributed free 

of charge. For a full list contact 

distribution@rekord.co.za 

Competition rules 

The judges’ decision is final. Prizes cannot be 

transferred or redeemed for cash. Competitions 

are not open to the sponsors or Caxton 

employees or their families. Get It Magazine 

reserves the right to publish the names of 

winners, who will be contacted telephonically 

and need to collect their prizes from Caxton 

Northern branch within 10 days or they will be 

forfeited. Prizewinners names are published on 

our Facebook page monthly. 

AUGUST 2020 

FOOD & DRINK 

20 Savour a smooth red wine with heart-warming comfort food 

24 Quick as a flash – dinner in a (five ingredient) dash 

30 Rising young culinary star, chef Ruth Marovatsanga, doesn’t mince 

matters when it comes to dishing up delectable food 

DECOR & GARDENING 

32 Home office buys that work 

34 We dig sugar snap peas, dazzling magenta geraniums and a very 

special lavender to help August spring towards summer 

TRAVEL 

38 Take time out to enjoy a spectacular Namaqualand mountain 

retreat or a spot of stress-free seaside bliss in the Cape 

WIN 

40 A bottle of Guaria Morada – a glorious Costa Rican perfume 

Photographer/Image credit: 

00 Get It Sandton • Rosebank Month 08 

August 20 Get It Magazine 03

A hot date! 

Yoga. A wine course. Or some 

jolly good shows on the 

small screen. All your 

options for August 

04 Get It Magazine August 20

Curl up and tune in to Showmax 

In the mood for crime? Comedy? Drama? Look no further than our picks of 

the best shows and movies this month. 

We’re kicking off with a local film directed by Oliver Hermanus. In 

The Endless River, a young waitress welcomes her husband home to the 

small South African town of Riviersonderend after his jail sentence. When the 

family of a foreigner living on a nearby farm is murdered, the waitress and the 

grieving widower begin gravitating towards each other. Trapped in a cycle of 

violence and bloodshed, the two form an unlikely bond seeking to transcend 

their mutual anger, pain and loneliness. 

When Detective Felicity Dill is killed in a car bombing, her sister, Allegra Dill, an 

investigator working for a senator, returns home to San Bonifacio to find the 

killer. In the process of her investigation, she uncovers a web of corruption in 

the small Texas town. Briarpatch (S1) is an artistic, interesting mystery crime 

series based on the Ross Thomas novel of the same name. 

Vida (S3) returns with the two Mexican-American sisters, Emma and Lyn, who 

couldn’t be more different or distanced from each other. Circumstances force 

them to return to their old neighbourhood, where they are confronted by 

the past and shocking truth about their mother’s identity. 

In the Reckoning (S1) the murder of a teenager and the hunt for a serial 

killer in a suburban town sets two fathers on a course of mutual destruction 

that will reverberate through their quiet community. Explore the darkest 

corners of the male psyche through the eyes of two fathers, one of whom is 

a serial killer. 

It’s time, once again, to wreak some hilarious havoc on the spacetime 

continuum as Future Man (S3) debuts its final season to wrap things up. Josh 

Futturman, a janitor by day and a gamer by night, is recruited by mysterious 

visitors to travel through time to prevent the extinction of humanity. 

Hard-hitting cop show Bosch (S6) is back. The run of shows sees Harry 

playing a key role in trying to save his city after a medical physicist is executed 

and the deadly radioactive material he had with him goes missing. Finding 

himself at the centre of a complex murder case, a messy federal investigation, 

and an impending catastrophic threat to Los Angeles, Bosch must act as 

domestic terrorists threaten the fate of Los Angeles. 

The hit mockumentary What We Do In The Shadows (S2) is a look into the 

daily (or rather, nightly) lives of three vampires who’ve lived together in New 

York for more than 100 years – plenty of time to get on each other’s nerves. 

With the Whisperer War upon them, the collective communities must come 

together and possibly sacrifice all they have to find a way to silence the 

Whisperers once and for all. Otherwise Alpha will ensure they face a certain 

doom … The Walking Dead (S10) is the definitive zombie show, having won 

77 awards globally. 

I May Destroy You is a British comedy-drama television series set in London 

where gratification is only an app away. Arabella is a carefree, self-assured 

Londoner with a group of great friends, a boyfriend in Italy and a burgeoning 

writing career. But when her drink is spiked with a date-rape drug, she must 

question and rebuild every element of her life. 


Netflix ... for a great night in 

The crime comedy-drama Good Girls (S3) revolves around three 

mothers who upend their seemingly cosy lives and descend 

into the world of crime to pay their family bills. Now they return 

to face the consequences of last season’s high jinks. The show is 

dark, a little outlandish – and in its best episodes, it’s gripping! 

The world as we know it has ended in The Rain (S3)... When 

a virus carried by rainfall wipes out almost all humans in 

Scandinavia, Danish siblings Simone and Rasmus take shelter in 

a bunker. Six years later, they emerge to search for their father, a 

scientist who left them in the bunker but never returned. Along 

the way they join a group of young survivors and together set 

out on a danger-filled quest through an abandoned Scandinavia, 

searching for any sign of life. 

After an excruciatingly long wait, the fantasy comedy drama 

Lucifer is back for season five. Throughout the series, Lucifer and 

his allies take on a wide array of supernatural threats – but they’ll 

be facing perhaps their most unique challenge yet this season. 

Good news Lucifans … the show has officially been renewed for 

season six! 

In Secret Origins, the scene is set in Madrid 2019 where a 

serial killer is spreading chaos. Anonymous people with no 

apparent connection are being murdered while imitating the 

first appearances of the most famous superheroes. It is up to 

two detectives to put together the pieces of a game with which 

they’re completely unfamiliar. 

Vegan made easy 

Whether you’re thinking about taking the plant-based plunge or just 

want a refresher on why being vegan is amazing for your body, we’ve 

got you covered. Join plant-based nutrition leader and creator of 

The Seed Blog Tammy Fry for a virtual workshop. Get the low-down 

on vegan hacks, bust those all-too-common myths, learn how to meal 

plan for a family, get some recipes and much more. August 8 at 10am. 

Tickets are R50 and will be available via Quicket.co.za 

Release your inner superhero 

Grab your sidekicks and capes for the Wonder Woman Justice League 

virtual run. Whether you’re a single runner suffering from cabin fever 

and creaky legs or a family wanting to put some loving distance 

between one other, this fun-filled day of physically distanced running 

/ walking will take place in your neighbourhood ... all while giving 

back to those who need it most, especially children! With distances 

of 2.5km, 5km, 7.5km and 10km, there’s something for every hero, big 

or small. It’s all happening on August 9, tickets from R190 a person, 

which include a Wonder Woman medal, T-shirt and button badge. 

Details: justiceleagueseries.co.za or on Facebook – Justice League Series. 

Stuck inside. Bored out of your mind. Desperate for things to do. You need 

The Self-Isolation Activity Book. Written by Ian Doors, a man who 

says he’s spent all his time alone in his apartments long before you all 

started, it’s filled with quick and easy activities ... games, mental exercises, 

colouring-in, handy hints and kitchen / pantry food and drink tips ... 

everything you need to survive your time inside. Orion, R240. 


Record breaking concert ... 

and you’re invited! 

Who said you can’t have a great deal of fun watching a live 

stream concert at home? No standing in long queues, eight feet 

tall people blocking your view, getting pushed from all sides, 

using signals to communicate or being so far away you can 

barely see the artist on stage. Not for us. Instead, we’ll be getting 

a front row seat for a COVID Secret Session live stream concert 

by local legendary rock band, Prime Circle. Not only will they 

produce a world-class show but they aim to set a record 

globally for the most tickets sold for a live stream rock concert! 

It’s on August 8 at 7pm. We’ll be there ... join us! Bonus: Ten per 

cent of the money raised will be in aid of charity. Get your ticket 

for R120 from Computicket.com or head over to their Facebook 

page @PrimeCircle to keep updated. 

Time 

to wine down 

Wine lovers … this is your chance to 

sip, sniff and swirl your way through an 

edutaining Local is Lekker wine course by 

the Tops at Spar Wine Show. Wine educator 

Cathy Marston will take you on a humorous, 

interactive journey that’s more like a wine club 

than a wine course! Think interesting wine 

theories, practical tips and guided wine 

tastings. Four online Zoom sessions (each 

with its own theme) of an hour will 

take place over two weeks. R295. 

Details: wineshow.co.za/ 

courses/ 

Try a virtual workout … we’ve found exercise classes made for your living room 

Fortunately, there are tons of top-notch ways to 

work out at home. To help you get going, we’ve 

rounded up the best online exercise classes you 

can do right from your living room, whether 

you’re craving a serious muscle burn or fun and 

a fast sweat. After all, a little self-care and stress 

relief are exactly what we need in these anxietyinducing 

times. 

• Join yoga and meditation pro Chelsey Mcluckie 

on the mat for a group Yoga Zoom class twice 

a week. She’ll show you how to calm your mind, 

balance your body and breathe properly, all 

through mindful movements. Her classes are 

suitable for everyone, regardless of age and 

fitness levels. R70 a drop-in, R110 a week. Details: 

chelseymcluckieyoga.co.za/online-yoga-classes/ 

• Think you have to be an uber-fit celebrity, athlete 

or dancer to even consider a Pilates class? The 

truth is, you don’t need any previous exercise 

experience. So, we’re opting for an online class 

with the instructors from My Pilates. They offer 

various levels you can choose from … think a 

refreshing mind-body workout which emphasises 

proper breathing, correct spinal and pelvic 

alignment as well as a focused concentration on 

smooth flowing movement. Classes are from R349 

a month. Details: mypilates.co.za 

• If you’re serious about burning the calories from 

last night’s banana bread, then you should join a 

Zoom class with the trainers from Thrive. Choose 

between a 45-minute move, power or flow class 

targeting four main areas with each workout – 

upper and lower body, cardio and core. No need 

for any fitness equipment, you can just jump right 

in for R50 a session! Details: thrivefitness.co.za 


Book club 

A book a day keeps boredom 

at bay. Add a glass of wine and 

you’re in for a happy August. 

In a tiny Italian village, life in the 1950s is a daily 

pageant of small human dramas. There are 

lippy signoras and earthy farmworkers. There’s 

a coffin-maker, a silkworm farmer and those 

who catch frogs for the town’s local delicacy – 

frog risotto. Then there’s Pistola, a teenage boy 

in love with his second cousin, Teresa, a girl 

who’s sadly, destined to marry the village thug. 

Don’t you already know Loves and Miracles of 

Pistola is going to be a magnificent read? Even 

more so, when you discover that to escape 

his heartache, young Pistola accepts the offer 

of a lifetime ... to travel to South Africa to work 

on the trains. In lively Johannesburg, he and a 

group of compatriots are trained as stewards 

and taught to speak English – and Afrikaans. It’s 

not all work, mind you. The Italians set up home 

in Hillbrow and go partying in Sophiatown 

with the likes of Miriam Makeba. When Pistola 

falls for the spunky Malikah, a political activist, 

the apartheid police watch every breath of 

their passionate, illicit relationship. It’s written 

by the wonderful Hilary Prendini Toffoli, who 

lives in Cape Town and is known for her social 

satire and investigative features. Just brilliant! 

Penguin, R280. 

So many of our favourite authors this month. Book Club’s going to 

be great. Jeffery Deaver (love!) has just released his latest thriller, The 

Goodbye Man. After witnessing a shocking suicide while pursuing two 

armed fugitives in the wilderness, Colter Shaw’s investigations lead him 

to go undercover in the Foundation – a cult that promises to transform 

people’s lives. It’s a cult led by a charismatic leader who commands 

terrifying loyalty from his followers, a cult that may have only one way to 

escape – with your life. Harper Collins, R408. 

From the outside, the house in Lakeview Terrace looks perfect. And the 

Bigelows seem like the perfect family. The respected surgeon father. The 

glamorous, devoted mother. Two beautiful children. A perfect family 

in a perfect house, living their perfect lives. But perfect surfaces can 

hide dark undercurrents and behind closed doors lies a very different 

story. Teenager Zane and his younger sister, Britt, are terrorised by 

their violent father and dysfunctional mother. Too afraid to speak out, 

Zane does his best to protect his sister and counts the days until they 

can finally be free. Until the night when their father’s temper takes 

a horrifying turn for the worse, the perfect façade is exposed for the 

lie it is, and Zane and Britt manage to escape. With the help of their 

aunt, they rebuild their lives, creating new families and putting their 

past behind them. But can a past like that really be put aside? Under 

Currents, by Nora Roberts, is a great winter read, perfect for a Sunday 

on the sofa in front of a fire. Little Brown Book Group, R239. 


Do you remember how your heart just swelled when you read The 

Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry?. Well, it’s time for an encore. Joyce 

Rachel’s Miss Benson’s Beetle is a story about a tiny insect, an exciting 

adventure and a deep, unexpected friendship. It’s the story of Margery 

Benson, whose life ended the day her father walked out of his study and 

never came back. Forty years later, abandoning a dull job, she advertises 

for an assistant, someone who will join her on an expedition to the other 

side of the world to search for a beetle that may, or may not, exist. Enid 

Pretty is not who she had in mind. But together they will find themselves 

drawn into an adventure that exceeds all Margery’s expectations, 

eventually finding new life at the top of a red mountain. Penguin, R310. 

Isn’t it irritating when you watch a 

series and someone says ‘the book 

was sooo much better’. Well, trust us 

when we tell you that when it comes 

to Little Fires Everywhere, the book 

is, indeed, so, so, so much better. This 

magnificently written story revolves 

around two families – a free-spirited, 

enigmatic artist and single mum, and 

a journalist who, with her husband 

and four children, lives the perfect 

life, where everything is strictly under 

control. How these women influence 

their own and each other’s children, 

and how Celeste Ng captures the 

angst of being an adolescent, 

makes for a powerful, thoughtful 

read and a book that’s completely 

unputdownable. Little Brown Book 

Group, R288. 

Twelve years 

ago, a child went 

missing. She was 

six years-old when 

she disappeared. 

Now she’s home. 

Knocking on the 

door. But why 

won’t she answer 

any questions? 

Where has she 

been? How did she 

find her way home? 

And who is she? SK 

Barnett’s Safe is a 

thrilling read, with 

twist after twist 

until the very last 

page. Penguin, R260. 

This is, quite simply, the most exceptional wine we could wish 

to enjoy this August. Elegant and complex, Glenelly Lady May 

is all blackberry and cassis, dark cherry and spicy plum, with 

dense, age-worthy tannins. R520 from glenelly.co.za 

Two strangers are driving across 

America. Cait – whose job is to 

transport women to safety. Rebecca – 

who’s trying to escape something. Out 

of respect, Cait never asks questions. 

But what if Rebecca’s secrets put them 

both in danger? There’s a reason Cait 

chooses to keep on the road, helping 

strangers. She has a past of her own, 

and knows what it’s like to be followed. 

And there’s someone right behind 

them, watching their every move. Read 

Jessica Barry’s Don’t Turn Around with 

the lights on bright! Penguin, R310. 


Wish list 

Travel and food and a touch of glam this August 

Tapas for real foodies 

Tapas with Liam Tomlin is the most 

heavenly book imaginable. It’s a 

book to drool over, to sit for hours 

earmarking recipes and planning gettogethers. 

It’s all about the style of 

food Liam likes to cook and the way 

he likes to eat ... with lots of different 

tastes, textures and cooking styles. It’s 

crammed with inspiring, exceptionally 

styled photos of food you just long to 

re-create. 

What this isn’t, is a book for scaredy-cat 

cooks. Or for those with timid taste 

buds. It kicks off fairly safely with potato 

and chorizo tortilla, but before long it’s 

all braised pig’s head with bacon and 

egg, and sautéed frogs’ legs with wild 

mushrooms, parsley purée and truffle 

dressing. The Basic Recipe section 

includes walnut tuile and duck liver 

parfait and bao buns, for heaven’s sake. 

Delicious? Yes. But basic? Maybe not 

so much. You need a certain amount 

of skill and dedication – and time – to 

follow many of the recipes. Of course 

there are loads and loads of dishes that 

are less daunting ... the tomato tart 

with Parmesan catalan, basil and olives 

is time-consuming but delicious; the 

pancetta-wrapped prawns with crab 

and spring onion risotto is possibly our 

favourite recipe from the book. 

Liam, an Irish chef who worked in 

restaurants around the world before 

moving to Cape Town where he’s 

opened restaurants including the 

original Chefs Warehouse 10 yearsor-so 

ago and more recently Chefs 

Warehouse Maison in Franschhoek, 

describes his way of cooking as 

being focused on technique and on 

extracting as much flavour as possible 

to create tasty and well balanced 

dishes. This is the second edition of 

his book – the first, self-published, 

was only available at his restaurants. 

An exceptional buy for a real foodie. 

Penguinrandomhouse, R399. 

10 Get It Magazine August 20 

Vanilla dream 

Our new absolute favourite 

Château Gâteaux flavour, Vanilla 

Dream, is now also available in 

the medium size (8-slice). This 

means you can pile two (or more) 

cakes on top of each other to 

achieve a wonderful (and very 

on-trend) 'tall' cake. The Vanilla 

Dream a moist vanilla torte 

layered with a Chantilly cream, 

infused with vanilla seeds and 

topped with fine white chocolate 

shavings. The perfect companion 

to a hot cup of tea, a decadent 

post-dinner dessert and the 

perfect blank canvas for creating 

a beautiful celebratory cake. 

Details: chateaugateaux.co.za 

WIN! 

This women’s month we are giving 

away two medium size (8-slice) Vanilla Dream 

cakes to three very lucky readers! To enter, 

follow our social media pages and look out for 

the post with the competition rules. 

IG - @getitptamagazine 

FB – Get It Pretoria Magazine 

To find your closest Château Gâteaux 

visit: chateaugateaux.co.za

From Soweto to Milan 

So you want to be an influencer? 

A luxurious life flitting from one 

fitting room to the front row on 

fashion week. And, with a lot of 

hard work, you can, says Kefilwe 

Mabote, one of South Africa’s leading 

fashion influencers. In Kefilwe 

Mabote Influencer de Luxe, candid 

autobiography-cum-guide, she 

reveals the secrets of her success 

... from her humble beginnings in 

Soweto, all the way to the world’s 

fashion capital, Milan. With loads 

of really useful, practical tips and 

real-world tools for building your 

digital brand, it’s an inspiring read, 

written by an ordinary township girl 

who had a goal ... and went for it. 

Human & Rousseau, R280. 

Top of our wish list ... to travel with the family 

Trying to keep up with can we buy wine, can we walk in the park, can we travel, is 

exhausting. But we’ve found one rather special travel option we think will work – 

just be sure to time your arrival before our 9pm curfew. 

Tintswalo Lodges has introduced a self-catering option for families and 

friends ... exclusive-use, self-catering options are available at three of the lovely 

Tintswalo properties. 

With a choice of a safari or a coastal breakaway for a group of up to 10 people, the 

self-catering options are available at the Manor House at Tintswalo Safari Lodge 

in the greater Kruger area, the Tintswalo Family Camp in the Welgevonden Game 

Reserve in the Waterberg, and Tintswalo at Boulders Boutique Villa in Simon’s Town. 

The Manor House at Tintswalo Safari Lodge in the Manyeleti Private Nature 

Reserve has spacious lounge and dining areas and deep, shady patios that are 

ideal for relaxation. The traditionally styled private villa has five bedrooms with 

en-suite bathrooms, two with outside baths for indulgent soaks under starlit 

skies. Welcoming children of all ages, the family-friendly destination comes with 

a swimming pool and rolling lawns protected by game fencing, overlooking a 

waterhole that offers excellent game viewing 24/7. 

Tintswalo Family Camp Welgevonden in the malaria-free Welgevonden Game 

Reserve in the Waterberg ranks among SA’s largest private game reserves and 

boasts a great variety of game, including the Big Five. There are five spacious, 

freestanding luxury units, a main lodge with lovely lounges where fireplaces 

keep things cosy, a swimming pool with poolside loungers and a viewing deck 

overlooking the waterhole. It’s child-friendly and protected by electric fencing 

against predators and dangerous game to allow children the freedom to enjoy 

the outside areas. 

With unobstructed views across Boulders Beach and its world-famous resident 

colony of endangered African penguins, Tintswalo at Boulders Boutique Villa 

boasts a unique beachfront location. With luxurious suites, open-plan lounges with 

fireplaces, a TV room, outdoor terraces, and a wind-protected courtyard with a fire 

pit, as well as a sea view pool on the top deck, this is indeed a luxurious getaway. 

The rate is R25 000 a night deal for 10 people, with a minimum stay of two 

nights. The lodges are fully serviced and all health precautions and safety 

protocols are fully complied with. Safari options also include two safari activities 

a day, a safari vehicle and the services of a guide, as well as a private chef, 

housekeeping, laundry and Wi-Fi. Excluded are food and beverages and gratuities. 

Details: 021-773-0900 or tintswalo.com 

Look out for 

Coach Blue, which 

is about to land on 

the fragrance scene. 

All lime oil, absinthe 

and grapefruit, black 

pepper, cedar leaf 

and amber, wrapped 

up in a gentlemanly 

blue bottle. Gorgeous. 

From R970, at Woolies, 

Clicks, Truworths and 

Dis-Chem. 

Compiled by KYM ARGO 


No airs 

graces 

She’s warm. Not in slightest bit aloof. 

Has no airs and graces. In short, 

Dunay Darren is remarkably likeable. 

In fact, she’s a little reserved and not a 

fan of being the centre of attention ... 

despite the fact that she has quite an 

impressive list of achievements under 

her belt. 

‘Years ago, I had the opportunity 

to represent our country in Malta 

and Hungary as Miss Bikini SA, I 

was a model on M-Net’s Deal or 

No Deal, and I did numerous print 

and television adverts ... my first 

advert when I was just six years-old. 

I also did a Sun International advert 

with Charlize Theron, which was 

quite a highlight. But my biggest 

accomplishments are without 

doubt getting my master’s degree in 

psychology and becoming a wife and 

the mother of two gorgeous kids.’ 

With her knowledge of psychology 

and desire to always help others, it’s 

no surprise that Dunay’s name keeps 

popping up whenever there’s need 

for assistance in the community. 

She has bucket-loads of patience, an 

understanding heart (both of which, 

she says, she gets from her mother) 

and a calm demeanour. 

‘My passion lies in helping others 

and, particularly in the times we 

find ourselves in these days, I’d 

love to get more involved with 

voluntary counselling and make it 

more accessible. I volunteered at 

SADAG (South African Depression 

and Anxiety Group) and what an 

unforgettable, enriching experience it 

was,’ she says. 

Now Dunay’s focus is on something 

else very close to her heart – animal 

shelters. 

&She may be married 

to one of SA’s most 

successful pop stars, 

but living a peaceful, 

private life away from the 

limelight is what Dunay 

Darren is all about. 

‘I was raised as an only child on a 

smallholding with many animals … 

chickens, sheep, geese, horses and 

10 dogs – which is where my love for 

animals started. I’m instantly drawn 

to people who show affection for 

animals and I’ve always assumed that 

compassion for animals is interlinked 

with compassion for humans. 

‘So many people have dropped 

off their pets at shelters since the 

beginning of lockdown, believing 

they are carriers of Covid-19 – which 

is, in fact, not true – or because 

they’re no longer able to look after 

them. This, along with the loss of 

volunteers and the sharp decrease 

in financial contributions, has put 

shelters under severe pressure. For 

this reason, I started a project to 

teach our kids about compassion. 

We’re making and selling kids’ shields 

with animal faces under the name 

Kiddi Shields. I’m in discussions 

with an animal shelter to donate a 

percentage of the profits towards 

their needs.’ 

Lockdown has presented us with 

many challenges, but it’s also brought 

opportunities to assess what’s 

important to our lives and our wellbeing. 

Dunay doesn’t think twice 

when asked what lockdown has 

taught her. 

‘Family and health are everything! 

I’m thankful for our kids, Kyrah and 

Kade, because having children is not 

a gift bestowed on everyone. I have 

endometriosis and had to patiently 

wait three years for my firstborn. 

They’ve taught us a renewed 

appreciation for the small things in 

life that we don’t ‘see’ any more … 

to live and have fun without caring 

about being judged. I don’t mind 

how ridiculous I might look but I’ll 

gladly be a child with them and jump 

on the trampoline, run through foam 

or be transformed into an animal 

character. Most importantly, I’ve come 

to realise that these days, we cannot 

take anything for granted. 

‘Admittedly, the current pandemic 

sometimes scares me, but not for 

long. Good is likely to come from it. 

I once heard our good friend and 

radio presenter, Darren Scott, saying 

there are two types of people in the 

morning or afternoon traffic. There 

are those who are late for work or a 

meeting, blowing the vehicle’s hooter, 

throwing up their arms, irritable and 

stressed. Then there are those who 

are also late for work or a meeting, 

but who realise they can’t change 

anything, accept the situation, phone 

ahead and apologise, irrespective of 


the response and are content with 

the fact that they’re doing all they’re 

able to at that moment. This was 

life-changing for me … maybe others 

need to hear it too!’ 

You simply cannot fault Dunay on 

her public image. Apart from always 

looking red carpet-ready, she treats 

people with respect, regardless of 

any differences, and never makes 

anyone feel inferior. 

But behind all the glamour – and 

having an award-winning singer for a 

husband – at home Dunay is a doting 

wife and mother … and loving every 

moment of it. 

‘I have the utmost respect for Kurt’s 

complete passion and dedication 

for his work – he’s living his dream. 

He has a great work ethic and is 

constantly striving towards doing 

more and being more. I’m very 

happy in my role as supporting wife, 

seeing him shine in a role he was 

destined for!’ 

Some fun facts: 

• Dunay would love to own and run 

a Big 5 game lodge. • At a gathering with 

friends or family, she’s the one making friends 

with the dog. • The Darrens have three dogs – 

Kiara, a dachshund and two Jack Russells, Elvis 

and Nikita. She admits they’d have loads more if it 

were allowed. • She doesn’t eat onions. • ‘Que sera 

sera, whatever will be will be’ is her motto in life. • A 

bush breakaway with family is her idea of absolute 

indulgence. • Her mother is her best friend. 

• She’s experienced the thrill of white water 

rafting with Kurt on the Zambezi River, 

paragliding over the Alps, scuba 

diving in Mozambique and 

skiing in Austria. 

Text: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG. Photographer: STEPHEN SEGAL. 


Va-va-zoom 

With more and more of us working from home, and most of our 

meetings being virtual ... via Skype, Facetime or Zoom ... here 

are our tips to help you look professional but not overdone. 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO 

1. Get the basics right. You’ve cleansed and toned, 

but a quick wipe with a good Micellar solution 

will ensure your face is clean and fresh, with no 

oily patches. Azana Spa Aloe Vera & Cucumber 

Micellar Water also assists in boosting your skin’s 

radiance. R89.95 from Dis-Chem. 

2. Make sure you prep with a good 

primer which blurs lines, hides open 

pores and stops shine. Essence Prime 

+ Studio Glow Boosting + Pore 

Minimizing Primer is a great product at 

a great price R189.95 from Clicks. 

3. Choose a really light foundation (you don’t 

want to look overdone). Even better, try a 

tinted fluid, like Filorga Flash-Nude Fluid, 

which gives an instantly flawless finish with 

no mask effect. R525 from cosmetology.co.za 

4. If you suffer from oily skin, or an oily T bar, 

a light dusting of NYX Professional Make 

Up HD Finishing Translucent Powder is 

great. Only use it where needed, not all over 

your face. R189.95 from Clicks. 

5. If you haven’t had time to wash your hair, 

or if it’s just looking a little flat and needs 

some volume, a spray of dry shampoo 

works wonders. Sorbet Drybar’s High and 

Dry dry shampoo adds volume and texture. 

R95 from Clicks. 

6. Too much screen time? 

Apply Filorga Optim- 

Eyes Refresh – an express 

revitalising eye contour 

stick, with instant cooling 

effect, which refreshes and 

magically makes signs of 

fatigue disappear. R430 

from Clicks and Edgars. 

7. Talking eyes, we all 

know your brows frame 

your face ... so make sure 

yours are perfect. Invest in 

a good pair of tweezers – 

Tweezerman Rose Gold 

Tweezer Slant (R359 

from Dis-Chem), are our 

go-to option. And use a 

good eyebrow pencil ... 

Clarins Eyebrow Pencil 

comes with a built-in spiral 

brush, so your brows look 

groomed and tamed. R325 

from clarins.co.za 


8. Keep your eye shadow 

soft and natural – then add 

lashings and lashings of 

mascara. We recommend 

Essence All Eyes on Me 

Multi-effect Mascara. It’s 

inexpensive and waterproof 

(perfect if the Zoom 

meeting bores you to tears). 

R47.95 at Clicks. 

9. If, like us, you talk with your 

hands, make sure your nails 

are in tip-top condition. The 

Sorbet Pro Gel Effect range 

doesn’t chip and comes in 

loads of lovely shades – we’re 

wearing the appropriately 

named Let’s Say Home (R110 

from sorbetnailbars.co.za). 

We also like Essie and Sally 

Hansen nail lacquers, which dry 

in less than a minute, so you 

can have a quick paint while 

you wait to dial in. 

10. Last, but never least, are your lips. 

We’re torn here. As you’re looking natural 

and not too made up, we should suggest a 

light natural shade, like Elizabeth Arden’s Beautiful 

Colour Moisturizing Lipstick in Breathless. But then ... 

no masks! So you could rock those lips with a smashing, fire 

engine Red Door Red. R325 from Woolies or Foschini. 


Home wear 

Our August equation. Comfort + glam = exactly what we’re after 


Fleece joggers and trainers for the school run. Casual 

luxe for an evening Zoom session with friends. 

Worldwide there’s chaos and uncertainty and lives 

have been turned upside down. So this month we 

want to snuggle down, be safe, stay 

warm. Does dowdy fit the brief? Not 

a chance. Here’s what we’ll be 

wearing during what’s often the 

coldest month of the year. • We 

may be staying indoors, but 

do we still want to sparkle? 

Hell, yes! This black knit has 

just enough shimmer to keep 

us happy. Bonus ... it qualifies for 

free delivery. R499 from woolworths. 

co.za • Soft, luxurious and perfect to 

slip on over wide leg soft pants or 

a pair of leggings. This light grey 

longline cardie is a blend of merino 

and alpaca wool, so it’s super soft. 

R1999 from Trenery at Woolworths. • 

Are they slip-ons? Are they slippers? 

Who cares ... we’re wearing these 

Fuzzalicious from Ugg, with long 

sheepskin uppers, lining and insoles 

... toes as warm as toast. R1699 from 

superbalist.com • You want glam 

and comfy? These wide leg pants 

fit the brief. High rise, elasticated 

waistline, soft Milano knit, they’re 

comfy enough to lounge around 

in at home, glam enough to 

wear going out. We’d rate them 

an essential buy. R1299 from 

woolworths.co.za • A simple 

white trainer. Perfect. We love 

these Chelsea creeper plimsolls 

from Cotton On. R249 from 

superbalist.com • You’re planning a 

go-nowhere-do-nothing Sunday. 

These cuffed track pants, with 

elasticated waistband, are perfect. 

And if, by chance, you’re suddenly 

inspired to go for a walk to work 

off lunch, they’re good for that too. 

Plus ... it’s a two-for-one buy, so a great 

deal. R220 for two pairs, online from 

woolworths.co.za

For the school run or when 

you’re just popping out for your 

takeaway caffeine fix ... grey 

fleece joggers (R350) teamed 

with your favourite oversized 

sweater and topped with the 

palest blush pink coat, (R899). 

Add sneakers and you’re good 

to go. All from Truworths, shop 

online at truworths.co.za 

© Truworths 2017. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 


POWER 

OF PURPLE 

Greens tend to hog the limelight, but filling your plate with purple foods 

may be a very smart choice right now. They’re really incredible for your health. 

Compiled by: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG 


Registered dietician at Nutri & Flora, Dr Florence Malongane lists a few of the 

health benefits of purple fruit and veggies. 

Grapes 

Rich in antioxidants and nutrients such as potassium, calcium, iron, folate, 

magnesium, selenium, vitamins A, C and B6, among other benefits. 

Red grape skin is very high in resveratrol, which accounts for many 

health benefits such as supporting heart health, cholesterol level 

management, prevents signs of ageing and other skin problems, offers 

antioxidant support and helps the body’s ability to manage healthy 

blood sugar levels. 

Blueberries 

Similar to grapes, blueberries are rich in dietary fibre, calcium, copper, 

iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium, zinc, vitamins A, C 

and various types of vitamin B. Not only do they protect against heart 

disease and cancer, but help with digestion, deliver healthy antioxidants, 

improve skin health, promote healthy bones, support healthy blood 

pressure and boost brain function. 

Blackberries 

A single serving of blackberries 

provides about half your daily 

recommended intake of vitamin C! 

Even more impressively, they’re very 

high in fibre and are a great source 

of vitamin K. Other benefits of this 

superfruit include the improvement 

of oral health, a healthy heart 

and bones, full of antioxidants, an 

immunity booster, have anti-cancer 

properties and improve brainpower, 

including cognitive and motor 

function. 

Eggplant 

They’re packed with vitamins C, K 

and B6 and an ample amount of 

potassium, manganese and fibre. 

This vegetable (technically a fruit) 

also contains antioxidants that help 

promote heart health, control blood 

sugar levels, reduce cancer risk, 

improve cognitive function and aid 

weight loss. 

Red cabbage 

Packing more vitamins (C, K, A), 

dietary fibre, and other nutrients in 

a standard serving size than many 

other foods, this single plant can help 

improve the function of your immune 

system, fight chronic inflammation, 

and even improve blood clotting. 

Ancient Romans apparently used 

cabbage to restore their bodies after 

heavy alcohol consumption. Try 

munching some red cabbage the 

morning after! 

Figs aren’t only delicious, but they’re also a great way to get fibre, calcium, potassium 

and magnesium, all of which are nutrients many of us don’t regularly get enough of. They 

have many potential benefits, including promoting digestive and heart health, along with 

potentially helping manage blood sugar levels and promoting healthy skin. 


Beetroot 

That bright red root isn’t just a looker. Beets 

and beet greens are loaded with life-giving 

minerals, including magnesium (which has lots 

of benefits, including Alzheimer’s prevention), 

potassium (which aids heart, kidneys, muscle, 

nerve and digestive functions), copper, iron, 

and phosphorus, an essential mineral aiding 

cell function throughout the body – and it’s 

good for bones and teeth, too. Beets are also a 

great source of vitamins A, B, and C, as well as 

healthy fibre. 

Red onions 

Not only are they pretty and colourful on 

your plate, but they could also help give 

your body a health boost. Why? Because red 

onions are packed with vitamins and minerals, 

including folate, thiamine, calcium, magnesium, 

potassium, manganese and vitamins C, K and 

B6. Other benefits include that they may stop 

cancer cell growth, control diabetes, help 

ease arthritis, cure sore throats and help with 

constipation. 

Black rice (also known 

as purple rice) – an 

antioxidant-rich grain that 

has a nutty flavour profile 

– has more anthocyanins a 

gram than blueberries and 

has been found to reverse 

the effects of alcohol on 

the liver! Organic black 

rice, R84.95, Wellness 

Warehouse. 

Grow your own 

Purple cauliflower? No … it’s not some experiment gone wrong. 

The purple colour is caused by the presence of anthocyanins (an 

antioxidant), which can also be found in red cabbage and blueberries. 

It packs a bit more flavour, and cooks a little faster, than its white cousin. 

This cauliflower is a great source of vitamins C, K, B6 and fibre. Because 

it’s not always available you can grow your own. Shop for the seeds 

online for R24.99 from Woolworths. 


Fill your skin with 

There’s no denying the fact that all the anxiety 

and stress are seriously messing 

up our good looks at the moment. 

Yes, we’ve all had a rejuvenating facial that felt great for 

a few days, but then lost all the benefits. Well, what if we 

tell you we’ve found the answer to a natural, youthful 

appearance without going under the knife? 

The Thesera L is one of those luxury beauty treatments you 

seriously need to know about. It’s the ultimate solution for 

lifting and minimising the appearance of lines and wrinkles, 

it’s painless, non-invasive and there’s no downtime! In 

fact, Thesera L is a new generation of PDO thread lifts. 

It acts no less efficiently, but PDO threads are injected 

with needles, whereas Thesera’s lifting course is based on 

silk melting threads. It consists of five stages, for which 

different cosmetic products are used. The amazing benefits 

include giving the skin a youthful appearance, tightening 

pores, lifting, boosting elasticity, hydrating skin and 

improving volume, as well as improving the appearance 

of pigmentation and dermal density. This incredible nonallergic 

treatment not only lifts the skin by 29 per cent 

but lasts up to three months. However, a course of four 

is recommended to build on threads and maximise the 

production of collagen, which in turn, allows results to last 

up to 18 months. Depending on the results you want, you 

can do a second treatment as soon as one week after the 

first one. Thesera L is so marvellous (yes, we cannot praise 

it enough) that you can even do it in the comfort of your 

own home. The lifting kit consists of everything you need 

for four treatments, and you’ll even get online support from 

the official distributor and trainer of the Thesera Aesthetic 

Beauty Products, Celest Antiga. After the 75-minute 

treatment, your face will feel lifted and taut immediately. 

Your skin will feel hydrated, with a healthy glow. Sounds 

too good to be true? Nope, the Thesera L does even more 

than it says … but go and experience it for yourself … 

you’ll thank us later! One treatment costs R1 800 or you 

can purchase the Thesera L kit for R4 500. Countrywide 

courier options are available. There are also two equally 

fabulous Thesera treatments available – Thesera H, which 

is a moisture regeneration treatment and Thesera O, which 

firms, boosts elasticity, minimises nasolabial folds, smooths 

skin and gives a brighter and clearer complexion. 

Details: Celest on 082-788-7026, to houseofblpm@gmail.com 

or visit thesera.celestantiga.co.za 

ADVERTORIAL 

VOLUME 

We know you’d love to experience the Thesera L, 

so we’re giving away one treatment ... to stand in line 

to win, simply like our Facebook page, like our post 

and tag a friend, and you’ll be in the draw. 

Entries close August 31. Ts & Cs apply.

RED WINE 

SLOW FOOD 


& 

Lamb shank and oxtail and a bottle of 

smooth, luscious red. We’re loving winter 

Slow-braised Karoo lamb shank 

(Serves 4 – 6) 

Warm up with a hearty meal of slow-braised Karoo lamb 

shank ... rich and delicious, cooked until the meat falls 

off the bone. The recipe was shared by Spier Hotel ... it’s 

winter food at its best. Serve it with a bottle of Spier 

Creative Block 3. Subtle, perfumed notes of blackcurrant, 

blackberry, raspberry, pomegranate and mulberry are 

followed by spicy flavours of black pepper and coriander 

... it’s a silky, rich mouthful. 

You’ll need: 

30 ml (2 Tblsps) vegetable oil; 4 medium-large lamb 

shanks, trimmed of excess fat; 1 large white onion, diced; 

2 large carrots, peeled & finely chopped; 6 garlic cloves, 

finely grated; salt and freshly ground black pepper, to 

taste; 500 ml (2 cups) beef stock; 375 ml (1.5 cups) good 

red wine; 4 large tomatoes, chopped; 30 ml (2 Tblsps) 

tomato paste; 4 sprigs rosemary; 4 sprigs thyme; 

5 bay leaves 

Method: 

Preheat the oven to 160 °C. Heat the oil in a large, wide 

oven-proof pot over medium-high heat. Brown the shanks 

on all sides, then remove from pot and set aside. Add the 

onions and carrots to the pot and fry over medium heat 

until softened, then add garlic and cook for one minute. 

Return the shanks to the pot and season generously with 

salt and pepper. Add stock, wine, chopped tomatoes, 

tomato paste and herbs. Bring to a simmer, then cover 

the pot with a lid. Transfer to the oven and cook for 2 ½ - 3 

hours, or until the meat starts falling off the bone. 

Remove shanks from pot and set aside. Discard bay 

leaves and herbs from the sauce and place pot on stove. 

Simmer sauce over medium heat until thickened to your 

desired consistency. Add the shanks and serve warm with 

(optionally) herbed pap and vegetables. 

You can order Spier Creative Block 3 online for R179 from 

shop.spier.co.za

Oxtail with green olives and orange 

Winter is the time to bring out full-bodied reds, best enjoyed by the fireside or with heart-warming 

comfort food. New Roodeberg Reserve, a blend of the finest wines in the cellar, is the perfect 

freezing-day food companion ... think meaty casseroles, roasts and game dishes. An intense and 

richly textured wine, its intricate layers of red plum, blueberries, crushed herbs and tobacco leaf 

with hints of dark chocolate are rounded off by soft, silky tannins. The wine infuses rich flavour 

when added to hearty winter dishes like this one, from foodie Elmarie Berry. 


2,5kg oxtail; olive oil; 2 onions, diced; 2 Tblsps soy sauce; a few sprigs fresh rosemary; 4 bay leaves; 1 

glass Roodeberg Reserve; 1 cup beef stock; finely grated rind of 1 orange; 200g pitted green olives; 

200g button mushrooms 

Method: 

Preheat oven to 200°C. Heat the olive oil and fry the onion until soft. Spoon it out and add oxtail 

to the hot pan. Fry until golden brown. Add the cooked onions, garlic, bay leaves, rosemary, wine, 

stock and orange rind. Place in the oven and bake for 3 to 4 hours. Check on it and add extra liquid 

if necessary. Add the olives and mushrooms and bake for another 1 hour. 

Roodeberg Reserve Red 2017 costs around R165 a bottle, and can be found at selected Pick n Pay 

stores, or ordered from kwvemporium.co.za 

Compiled by KYM ARGO 


Chocolate fondant with Lindor 

We’re fond of a good Pinotage ... the FAT Bastard Pinotage is a great 

choice. This deep ruby red, medium bodied wine is all lush dark fruit 

with hints of chocolate and mocha. Perfect to serve with one of our 

favourite desserts ... a rich chocolate fondant. This one, created for FAT 

Bastard by Sam Linsell, is a wonderful way to end a winter meal. 


200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g salted butter; 1 tsp good quality 

instant coffee granules or ½ tsp espresso powder; 2 free-range eggs; 

2 free-range egg yolks; ½ cup (110g) caster sugar; ¼ cup flour; 4 white 

or milk chocolate Lindt Lindor balls or 3 x squares from a slab; cocoa 

for dusting 

Method: 

Preheat your oven to 200°C / 400°F and grease 4 dariole moulds or 

ramekins ( each with an approx capacity of 250ml / 1 cup). In a small 

pot melt the butter, coffee and chocolate until smooth. While it’s 

melting, using an electric beater, whisk the eggs, egg whites and sugar 

until pale and fluffy – about five minutes. Add the chocolate mixture 

and flour and briefly mix until well combined. Divide the mixture 

evenly between the four moulds and lightly press the Lindt Lindor 

balls/squares into the mixture in the middle. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes 

on a baking tray until they’ve puffed up and are firm on the top. Gently 

scrape a knife round the edges to loosen and tip out onto plates to 

serve hot. 

This makes 4 generous fondants, so you could quite easily make 6 to 8 

much smaller ones. Just reduce the cooking time down to 12 minutes 

and halve the quantity of Lindor chocolate you add to the middle. 

FAT Bastard Pinotage can be ordered for around R120 a bottle from 

shop.fatbastardwine.co.za 

After-dinner coffee 

What was the worst thing about lockdown? Not 

getting our daily Starbucks fix. Even though 

we’re now able to pop down to our nearest 

Starbucks, we’re delighted that Starbucks 

At Home has just been launched. The same 

premium, instant coffee in a choice of medium 

and dark roast coffees we’re used to ... as well as 

a variety of coffee beverages. An add-on to the 

existing range (we’re already fans of the Nescafe 

Dolce Gusto by Starbucks capsules), the new 

range is available in multi-serve tins and singleserve 

sachets. You’ll find them at stores including 

Checkers, Pick n Pay, Spar and Makro as well as 

convenient online platforms such as Pick n Pay 

Online and Takealot. 


Nothing beats finding that 

perfect Cabernet Sauvignon. 

One that’s structured and 

accessible enough to drink on 

its own, but also pairs perfectly 

with a weekend pizza, a posh 

pasta dish, or a good old 

braai. Hello De Krans Basket 

Press Cabernet Sauvignon 

2018. You’ll smell cassis, ripe 

berries, fresh prunes and cedar 

spice; you’ll taste soft plums, 

mulberries and dark cherries. 

Really well priced, it costs 

around R76 a bottle and you’ll 

find it at your local wine store 

or order online - dekrans.co.za. 

Martin Melck Cabernet 

Sauvignon pairs perfectly 

with Ouma Annatjie Melck’s 

Marinated Beef Pot Roast. For 

the recipe - click here 

Every wine tells a story 

Every wine tells a story. This is the motto at 

Muratie, the historic estate tucked away 

in the beautiful Knorhoek Valley north of 

Stellenbosch. Established in 1685, Muratie 

is one of the oldest farms in South Africa, 

rich in history and heritage. And with this 

age comes a myriad fascinating tales of the 

many extraordinary characters from the farm’s 

colourful past, which have been proudly 

commemorated in the naming and labelling 

of Muratie’s wines. All the Muratie wines have 

been named after these remarkable characters, 

each wine with its own enchanting story 

described on the back label. Buy the wines, 

read the labels, enjoy the history. 

The Muratie Martin Melck Cabernet 

Sauvignon Family Reserve 2016 (named after 

the great Martin Melck who was a major force 

in the wine and brandy industry for more than 

20 years) boasts four-and-a-half stars in Platter’s 

2020 SA Wine Guide. It has an intense ruby-red 

colour in the glass, opulent and polished, with 

the blackberries, currants and plums almost 

crème de cassis-like in their intensity. Even 

after the last sip, this red wine, with its lingering 

finish, will be remembered for a long time. It 

costs R460 a bottle and is only available at the 

estate or online. 

Muratie Martin Melck Cabernet Sauvignon 

2015 is classically styled and restrained. Aged 

for 20 months in French oak, it’s a full-bodied 

wine and will reward cellaring for at least 

another six years. Also a four-and-a-half star in 

the Platter 2020 guide, it costs R200 a bottle, 

and you’ll find it at wine merchants or online. 

Muratie Ronnie Melck Syrah Family 

Selection 2015/2016 (named after Ronnie 

Melck who, when asked to single out his 

favourite wine, always answered, ‘the wine in 

my glass’, which was often a Shiraz). A robust 

statement wine produced in extremely limited 

quantities (only 2200 bottles, each individually 

numbered), it’s described as expressive, 

intriguing and unharnessed. Rich concentrated 

blackberries, red currants and cherries burst 

onto the palate, while hints of black olive, 

pepper, smoke and bacon add savoury appeal. 

It’s only available at the estate or online for 

R530 a bottle. 

Ronnie described Muratie wines as ‘humble, 

honest and full of integrity, with quality being 

the only answer’, and the Muratie Ronnie 

Melck Shiraz 2016 certainly delivers on all 

those fronts. It’s an intensely red wine with a 

violet edge, offering rich floral and berry notes 

with hints of green peppercorns and gamey 

nuances, supported by a sweet spiciness with 

a vanilla, crème brûlée aftertaste. You can buy 

it at wine boutiques or online for R190 a bottle. 

Details: muratie.co.za/wine/buy-wine 


DINNERS 

Working from home certainly has its perks, but somehow the day slipped right 

through your fingers and now you’re facing the dinner time rut. Luckily, these 

easy, five ingredient dinner ideas are ready to swoop in and save the day! 

Compiled by: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG5INGREDIENT 


Chef Jackie Righi-Boyd, owner of Dolci Café, Craighall Park. 

Chef Jackie Righi-Boyd’s 

prawn pasta 

(Serves 2) 


1 crushed garlic clove; 5ml finely 

chopped chilli (or less if you’re not 

a spicy food fan); 100ml olive oil; 14 

uncooked prawns, de-veined and 

peeled; 350g spaghetti (or pasta 

of your choice) 

Method: 

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium 

heat. Add garlic and chilli – be careful 

not to burn – and fry for about three 

minutes. Add the prawns and cook 

until pink. Season with salt according 

to taste. 

In a large pot, bring water to a boil 

over medium-high heat. Stir in 1 tsp 

of salt. Add pasta and cook until al 

dente. Drain off excess water. Plate 

pasta, top with the prawns and garnish 

with parsley. 

Chef Fortunato Mazzone’s 

Pesce all’ Aqua Pazza 

(fish in the crazy water) 

(Serves 6) 


6 fillets of fresh white fish (hake works 

brilliantly); half a tin peeled chopped 

tomatoes; 125ml pitted black olives; 2 

cloves garlic, diced; 125ml dry white wine 

Method: 

Preheat oven to 180°C. Place fish fillets in a 

baking pan drizzled with olive oil. Season 

and top with tomatoes, olives, garlic, 

wine and mix well, making sure to coat 

everything. Place in the oven for 12 to 14 

minutes, turning the fish halfway through. 

Place fillets on a plate and top generously 

with the sauce from the pan. Add a spritz 

of olive oil. 

Serve with boiled baby potatoes doused 

with Maldon salt, olive oil and chopped 

Italian parsley. You can also add sautéed 

spinach seasoned with garlic. 

Chef Fortunato Mazzone, owner of Forti Bar & Grill, Time Square. 


YOUR NEW BEST 

FRIEND IN THE KITCHEN 

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why Jamie’s 5 Ingredients 

– Quick & Easy Food is sure to become your go-to in the kitchen. Every 

recipe uses just five key ingredients, ensuring you can get a plate of food 

together fast – finished and on the table super-quickly after minimal handson 

prep, with the oven doing the hard work for you. With more than 130 

recipes and chapters on chicken, beef, pork, lamb, fish, eggs, veg, salads, 

pasta, rice and noodles, as well as sweet things, there’s plenty of quick and 

easy recipe inspiration to choose from. penguinrandomhouse.co.za, R445. 

The recipes in this book delighted us so much we just had to share a few 

with you. 

Chicken pot pie 

(Serves 4) 


2 onions; 600g chicken thighs, skin off, 

bone out; 350g mixed mushrooms; 1 

bunch of fresh thyme (30g); 400g puff 

pastry (cold) 

Method: 

Preheat the oven to 220°C. Place a 

30cm non-stick ovenproof frying pan 

on high heat, with a smaller non-stick 

pan on a medium heat alongside. 

Pour 1 Tblsp olive oil into the larger 

pan. Peel and roughly chop the 

onions, adding them to the larger pan 

as you go. Roughly chop two-thirds 

of the thighs, finely chop the rest, 

and add to the onion pan. Cook for 

six minutes, or until golden, stirring 

occasionally. 

Meanwhile, place the mushrooms 

in the dry pan, tearing up any larger 

ones. Let them toast and get nutty for 

four minutes, then tip into the chicken 

pan and strip in half the thyme leaves. 

Remove pan from the heat, add a 

pinch of sea salt and black pepper, 

then stir in 1 Tblsp red wine vinegar 

and a cup of water. 

Working quickly, roll out the pastry 

so it’s 2cm bigger than the pan, 

then place it over the filling, using a 

wooden spoon to push it into the 

edges. Very lightly criss-cross the 

pastry, then brush with 1 tsp olive oil. 

Poke remaining thyme sprigs into the 

middle of the pie. Bake at the bottom 

of the oven for 15 minutes, or until 

golden and puffed up. Easy! 

WIN! 

We know you’d love 

a copy of Jamie’s book, so 

we’ve got two copies to give 

away. To stand in line to win, like 

our Get It National Facebook page, 

like our post, tag a foodie friend 

and you’ll be in the draw. 

Entries close August 30. 

Ts & Cs apply. 


Lemony zucchini/ baby marrow linguine 

(Serves 2) 


150g dried linguine; 2 mixed-colour zucchini/ baby marrows; ½ a bunch of fresh mint (15g); 30g Parmesan cheese; 

1lemon 

Method: 

Cook pasta in a pan of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain, reserving a cupful of the cooking water. 

Meanwhile, slice the zucchini/ baby marrows lengthways, then again into long matchsticks with a knife or julienne 

peeler. Place a large non-stick frying pan on medium-high heat with 1 Tblsp olive oil, then add the zucchini/ baby 

marrows. Cook for four minutes, tossing regularly, while you finely slice the mint leaves, then stir them into the pan. Toss 

the drained pasta into the zucchini pan with a splash of the reserved cooking water. Finely grate in most of the Parmesan 

and a little lemon zest, squeeze in all the juice, toss well, then taste and season to perfection with sea salt and black 

pepper. Dish up, finely grate over the remaining Parmesan and drizzle with 1 tsp of extra virgin olive oil before tucking in. 


Meltin’ mustardy beef 

Although very easy to prepare, you have to start early as this is slow cooked for 

four hours. But it’s worth the wait! 

(Serves 6) 


900g beef shin, bone out (ask your butcher for the bone); 500g carrots; 2 onions, 

125ml Worcestershire sauce; 2 heaped tsps wholegrain mustard 

Method: 

Preheat oven to 160°C. Place a large shallow casserole pan on high heat, with 

a large non-stick frying pan on a high heat alongside. Dice the beef into 5cm 

chunks and toss with a generous amount of black pepper and a pinch of sea salt, 

then dry fry in the hot frying pan with the bone for eight minutes. 

Meanwhile, wash and trim the carrots, chop into 5cm chunks, and place in the 

casserole pan with 1 Tblsp olive oil. Peel and quarter onions and break apart into 

petals, straight into the pan, stirring regularly. 

When meat is nicely coloured, tip it into the casserole pan, then stir in 

Worcestershire sauce and mustard, and cover with 800ml 

boiling kettle water. 

Cover, then cook in the oven for 

four hours, or until the beef is 

meltingly tender. Loosen 

with a splash of water, 

if needed. Taste, 

season to 

perfection, 

and serve. 


Sticky lamb chops 

(Serves 2) 


6 lamb chops, French-trimmed (600g total); 200g baby rainbow carrots; 8 cloves garlic; 3 oranges; ½ a bunch of fresh 

thyme (15g) 

Method: 

Score fat of the lamb chops, season with sea salt and black pepper, then line them up, like a rack, and sit them 

together fat edges down in a large shallow casserole pan on medium-high heat. 

Leave for five minutes to render and crisp up. Trim and add the baby carrots (halving any larger ones) and the 

unpeeled garlic cloves alongside, turning the carrots regularly. 

Gently turn the chops onto their sides, to cook for two minutes on each side, or until golden but still pink in the 

middle. Meanwhile, use a vegetable peeler to peel strips of zest from one orange. Sprinkle them into the pan with 

the thyme sprigs, and toss together for just 30 seconds to get the flavours going. Remove chops to a plate to rest, 

then squeeze the juice from all three oranges into the pan. 

Let the juice bubble and reduce until sticky, quickly toss the lamb chops back in with their resting juices, then hey 

presto, time to dish up. 


Compli-mince 

to the chef 

Give mince a makeover with this magnificent recipe from rising culinary star, chef Ruth 

Marovatsanga. We’ve also got a few nifty mince tips up our sleeves to share… 

When 27-year-old Rutendo Ruth Marovatsanga 

scooped up the coveted Young Star Chef of the 

Year Award at the One&Only Reaching for Young 

Stars project in 2018, little did she realise it was 

the start of what was to become the culinary 

adventure of a lifetime. 

As part of her prize, Ruth jetted off to Dubai to 

take up an intense mentorship experience at the 

One&Only The Palm and the One&Only The Mirage 

in Dubai. 

Her time in Dubai included a spell working in 

various restaurants under the wings of executive 

chefs and she further built up her culinary 

experience in 12 bars and restaurants, one of these 

being the three Michelin star restaurant, Stay, with 

chef Yannick Alléno. 

Ruth barely had time to unpack her bags before 

she flew off to the US to take up a six-month 

work experience opportunity at Winslow’s 

Tavern, a highly-rated restaurant in Cape Cod, 

Massachusetts. This top heritage restaurant, 

housed in a historic building, is run by South 

Africans, chef patron Phillip and Tracey Hunt. 

‘My 2020 plan includes increasing my knowledge 

in the front of house aspect of a restaurant 

and paying more attention to food and wine 

pairing. Now I’ve gained sufficient experience 

and knowledge about the food, it’s time to 

also understand the wine and service side of a 

restaurant. Within the next few years, I want to be 

a restaurant manager who can roll up her sleeves 

when the commis chef doesn’t show up for duty, 

as well as a chef who can easily recommend a 

wine to pair with the food.’ 

If Ruth had the opportunity to cook for five famous 

people, she’d make beef Wellington for Gordon 

Ramsey; southern fried chicken for Michelle and 

Barack Obama; something sweet – maybe a toffee 

pudding – for Jamie Oliver and chicken biryani for 

Alex Guarnaschelli, the executive chef at New York 

City’s Butter restaurant. 

Ruth shares her favourite mince recipe with us. 

From 

exceptional 

burgers to her 

own terrine 

recipe, Ruth’s 

cooking up a 

culinary storm. 


Chef Ruth’s terrine 

This works really well for a light lunch 

and can be prepared three days ahead 

and stored in the fridge. Simply bring it 

to room temperature before serving. 

(Serves: 8) 


350g rindless streaky bacon rashers; 

250g chicken livers; 300g minced 

pork; 450g minced beef; 1 large finely 

chopped onion; 2 cloves crushed 

garlic; 5ml dried oregano; 2.5ml ground 

allspice; 115g unsalted melted butter; 

120ml dry sherry; salt and ground black 

pepper according to taste 

Method: 

Preheat the oven to 180°C. 

With the back of a knife, stretch the 

bacon rashers. Use them to line the 

terrine dish or other ovenproof dish, 

leaving the rasher ends hanging over 

the sides. 

Finely chop the chicken livers and mix 

with the minced pork, minced beef, 

onion, garlic, oregano, allspice, and 

melted butter. Stir in the sherry and 

season with salt and pepper. 

Spoon the mixture into the dish and 

fold the ends of the bacon over the 

top. Cover tightly with foil or a lid, then 

stand the dish in a deep roasting tin. 

Fill the tin with enough hot water to 

reach halfway up the sides of the terrine 

dish. Cook in the oven for 90 minutes, 

then remove and cover with fresh 

foil. Place a weight on top and leave to 

cool, chill for up to 24 hours, then turn 

out and cut into slices. 

Serve with warm crusty bread or toast, 

topped with gherkins. 

Tips for jollying up your mince 

It always pays to keep mince on hand. It’s your budget-friendly bestie, ready to 

help out with quick-and-easy meals. Think cottage pie, spaghetti bolognese (kids 

love it!) and bobotie. From Italy ... lasagne, from SA ... vetkoek with curried mince. 

There are also sausage rolls and burgers, chilli con carne, tacos, meatballs and 

meatloaf. All you need is a kilo of mince, with chopped onions, garlic, salt and 

black pepper, oregano, basil and coriander – and you’re already halfway there! 

We found these five great tips to master mince. 

1. By swapping to a leaner mince, traditional recipes can become healthier. For 

classics like spaghetti bolognese, cottage pie and chilli con carne, a lean mince 

is the best choice. For burgers and meat loafs, mince with a higher fat content 

helps to achieve the right texture. 

2. Looking for a simple way to spice up your beef mince? Just add dry onion soup 

mix. Loaded with onions and a variety of other spices, who knew a little packet 

could pack so much punch? 

3. If you like the salty, tangy flavour Worcestershire sauce gives your meat, why not 

try substituting it for soy sauce? If the soy sauce is making your meat a little too wet, 

just add a few bread crumbs or ... peanut butter! Think of it like beef satay. 

4. To brown mince correctly, you should only put some of the mince in the pan 

at a time, not all of it. Adding too much mince at once reduces the temperature 

inside, meaning it won’t brown. It also causes all the beef’s liquid to be released, 

making it turn grey and tough. 

5. Browning meatballs before baking them gives extra flavour, and coating them 

in a tomato sauce as they cook helps keep them nice and juicy. Meatballs, along 

with a bowl of spaghetti, a glass of red ... and dinner’s served! 

Compiled by: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG 


Make it work … 

a stylish home office 

For many of us, working from home is a new situation, and it’s one that’s probably 

going to be around for a while. Whether you’re looking for some temporary solutions to 

home office space, or thinking long term, here are some workable options. 

Accessorise your desk with a Manikin 

Man (he’s like your own little work 

colleague), and a set of pencil pens, 

R99.99 and R50, both from Typo. 

Details: cottonon.com/za 

Keep track of the (over)time 

with this Country Road Della 

desk clock (R449). And if you 

do end up working late, you’ll 

need a good desk lamp … 

this one is stylish and functional, 

(R1099). Both from Woolies. 

Here’s a dual purpose 

buy. Use this matte black 

planter on a wooden 

stand on the corner 

of your desk to keep 

pens, pencils, rulers and 

stationery while you’re 

working from home, 

once you’re back at 

your office, plant it up 

with something green 

and lovely. R250 from 

Woolworths. 

We really like this slender writing 

desk from Houtlander. It’s great 

as a work station, but then will fit 

happily elsewhere in the house. 

R8500 from houtlander.co.za 

Yes. We know it’s a drinks 

trolley. But now, you’re going 

to use it as a spot to keep 

your storage boxes of papers, 

files and whatnot. No longer 

working from home … you’ve 

an elegant spot to keep the 

gin! R1699 from home.co.za 


Another desk lamp 

... elegant LED 

lamp, R299 from 

woolworths.co.za 

Keeping notes of the rules and 

regulations is a full time job! A4 

recycled notebook, R99 from 

Typo. Details: cottonon.com/za 

Stylish Noah 

magazine rack, 

R495 from 

weylandts.co.za 

If you’ve had to set up in the corner of a sitting 

room or dining room, this wicker screen is 

fabulous. Pop it up in front of your work station 

and … you’re off duty. R3999 from home.co.za 

For ideas, inspiration and exceptional office buys, pop into your closest Weylandts, or visit their online site. Great 

home office set-ups … desks and office chairs, and really stylish shelving options too. Perfect if your home office is 

here to stay. Details: weylandts.co.za 



Compiled by KYM ARGO

Peas v& posies 

Veggie of the month 

Heirloom sugar snap pea Cascadia is a cool 

season vegetable for sowing this month. It 

produces unusually sweet, crunchy, edible 

pods which are perfect for eating straight 

off the bush or adding fresh to salads, but 

equally delicious steamed, sautéed, or stirfried. 

It’s an easy-to-grow vegetable for 

beginners, is a compact vine type, and has 

extra disease tolerance to powdery mildew 

and mosaic virus. The 7cm to 9cm long, dark 

green pods are a produced in abundance, 

almost smothering the plant. Be sure to plant 

it in a position that receives full sun and has 

well-composted soil. For good germination, 

soak the seeds overnight before sowing. 

Space the plants about 20cm apart, and 

keep the soil moist during germination. Pods 

should be ready for harvest 60 days from 

germination. Depending on the garden’s 

micro-climate, Cascadia can be germinated 

indoors in seed trays, or sown direct into the 

soil. Order online from gropak.co.za 


This month we’re planting ... 

Geranium Marcada in hanging baskets and containers. If, like us, 

you’re longing for sunshine and summer, Marcada’s dazzling 

magenta flowers are just the tonic you need. This is a stronggrowing, 

semi-trailing geranium that spreads up to 45cm, 

spilling flowers prettily over the edges of pots and 

baskets. It grows and flowers well in cool, as well as 

hot, conditions and is drought tolerant, needing 

to be kept drier than other geraniums. Being selfcleaning, 

the dead flowers drop off easily, so there’s 

no need to trim. Details: ballstraathof.co.za 

Garden tasks for August 

Fertilize spring flowering annuals 

with a liquid fertilizer for flowers. 

Increase watering as the temperature 

rises. 

Wait until the last frost has passed 

before sowing summer annuals and 

perennials like marigolds, alyssum, 

cosmos, Californian poppy, gaillardia, 

sunflowers and zinnias. 

Fork compost round summer 

flowering perennials, fertilize and 

water well. 

Prune winter flowering shrubs and 

neaten evergreen shrubs with a trim. 

Clean and weed pathways, driveways 

and treat and fix wooden furniture 

and garden benches. 

Sow spring vegetables like lettuce, 

peas, cabbage, spinach and Swiss 

chard into trays or small pots and 

keep them in a warm, sheltered area 

that’s protected from frost. 

Prevent snail and slug damage by 

using organic snail bait like Ferramol 

and eradicate aphids with an 

organic insecticide. 

Whether you have a large garden or a tiny apartment, you can (and 

should) grow herbs. They’re easy to cultivate and it’s hugely rewarding to 

be able to pick a few fresh leaves to use when you’re cooking. 

Jane’s Delicious A-Z of Herbs is a beautifully illustrated, hands-on 

guide to growing and using herbs. There’s info on more than 80 of them 

... planting and growing, medicinal and culinary uses, as well as healing 

properties. Sunbird Publishers, R292 from Exclusive Books. 


Our indoor plant for August … 

While it’s still nippy outdoors, enjoy the spring fragrance of 

Lavandula Stoechas indoors. Besides being very pretty, the scent is 

also a natural stress reliever ... so whenever you walk past the plant, 

rub its leaves to release the delightful fragrance. Stoechas flowers 

are unlike other lavenders. The bracts on top of each bloom 

resemble bunny ears, or the open wings of a butterfly. Grown 

indoors, Stoechas lavender needs bright light and can take some 

morning sun. Let the soil dry out moderately between watering 

and snip off dead flowers to encourage more. In warm, bright 

conditions, such as a patio or living area, it may flower for up to 

three months. After flowering, you can lightly trim it, then plant in 

the garden – choose a spot that receives full sun and has soil that 

drains well. Details: plantimex.co.za 


A blooming marvellous 

NAMAKWA RETREAT 

Intimate, hidden, isolated retreats are those worth 

exploring right now. With now-you-can-travel-now-youcan’t 

regulations, self-catering options for families wanting 

to get away for a while are the way to go ... if not now, 

then as soon as we can. One we think is marvellous is the 

Naries Namakwa Retreat in the Northern Cape. This 

privately-owned 6000ha farm, dedicated to conservation 

and sustainable living, is situated between Springbok 

and Kleinzee. A beautiful and romantic hideaway, it’s well 

positioned for exploring the greater Namakwa region – from 

the Richtersveld in the north, to the shipwrecks in the west as 

well as, in season, the wild flowers. Perched on the top of the 

Spektakel Mountain, its views of the spectacular Namaqualand 

landscape, and the dramatic sunsets over the Atlantic seaboard 

some 60 kms away, are unsurpassed. As a retreat, it offers space, 

peace and tranquillity ... and three excellent accommodation 

options. There are classic rooms in a Cape Dutch-style Manor, 

as well as self-catering cottages, and, for a real spoil, luxurious 

Mountain Suites – domed, exclusive, thatched units built into 

the magnificent granite boulders, each with a view of the 

plains below. Besides the Wildflower Tours in season, there’s 

also Orange River rafting, hiking, birdwatching, stargazing and 

game viewing. Or you can just relax next to the swimming 

pool. Naries, accessible from Springbok via a 27 km tarred road, 

is one of the Cape Country Routes properties, so you know 

it’s going to be excellent. Rates from R1210 a person sharing. 

Details: capecountryroutes.com 

There are three options at the reserve … each as lovely 

as the other. Stay in the Cape Dutch-style Manor … 

… or the luxurious Mountain Suites … domed, 

thatched suites built into the granite boulders … 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO 

… or the lovely self-catering cottages – perfect for a family 

wanting to isolate from the stress of the city for a while 


Spoil 

August 

Costa Rica in a glass bottle 

We’re longing to travel. Somewhere warm and exotic with 

tropical beaches and a bit of adventure. 

Let’s go to Costa Rica ... all spider monkeys and keel-billed 

toucans, volcanoes and forests, waterfalls and exotic 

foliage. We’ll eat ceviche and tres leches cake and drink 

guaro and be happy. Or ... we’ll buy a bottle of 

Guaria Morada. The Berdoues Collection Grands Crus 

is described as ‘an art form creating unusual fragrant 

experiences of travels through the world’s most beautiful 

destinations’. They’re perfumes inspired by travel, and 

Guaria Morada – which is the name of the country’s 

unique and iconic flower and is a symbol of good luck and 

fortune – is, quite simply, Costa Rica in a glass bottle. It 

has a tender scent, with velvety floral notes and exotic 

fruity hints ... think amyris from Haiti, patchouli from 

Indonesia and orange from Brazil. Glorious! You’ll find it 

for R1595 at Foschini (foschiniforbeauty.co.za) ... or, you 

could enter our August Spoil competition. Simply travel 

over to GetItNationalMagazines on Facebook and follow the 

prompts. Entries close August 30. See you in Costa Rica x

Pretoria - August 2020

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