Ep 8. Trekking South Africa

In season 5 episode 8 of A Taste of History, host Walter Staib takes viewers on a culinary journey through South Africa. The episode, titled Trekking South Africa, explores the country's diverse cuisine and rich cultural history.

Staib begins his journey in Cape Town, where he meets up with local chef Liam Tomlin. Together, they visit the city's vibrant markets, sampling local specialties like biltong (dried meat) and koeksisters (a type of sweet pastry). They also stop by a traditional South African braai (barbecue), where they grill up some delicious meat and enjoy a glass of local wine.

Next, Staib heads to the historic wine region of Stellenbosch, where he learns about the country's centuries-old winemaking traditions. He visits a local vineyard and meets with winemaker Ernst Gouws, who shares his expertise on the varieties of grapes grown in the region. Staib and Gouws also prepare a classic South African dish of bobotie, a flavorful meat dish topped with a savory custard.

Continuing his journey, Staib travels to the Eastern Cape, where he visits the rural village of Qunu. This is the birthplace of the iconic South African leader Nelson Mandela, and Staib takes some time to learn about the local culture and history. He also visits a nearby farm, where he helps to prepare a traditional meal of pap (a type of porridge) and lamb. The meal is served outdoors in a beautiful setting, surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Eastern Cape.

Finally, Staib heads to Durban, a bustling coastal city known for its vibrant Indian community and spicy cuisine. He meets up with local chef Haanief Bux, who introduces him to the flavors of Durban's famous curries. They visit a local spice market and shop for a variety of fresh ingredients, including chilies, ginger, and cardamom. Then, they head to Bux's kitchen, where they prepare a delicious chicken curry and spicy chutney.

Throughout the episode, Staib showcases the diversity of South Africa's cuisine, from the traditional dishes of the country's indigenous people to the flavors brought by the migrant Indian community. He also highlights the importance of food in South African culture and history, and how it has evolved over time. Trekking South Africa is a fascinating journey through a country rich in culinary traditions and cultural heritage.