MasterChef’s Benny visits Lowveld

NELSPRUIT – Television shows like Idols, America’s Got Talent, and The Ultimate Braai Master have proven to be phenomenally successful even though they all employ similar methodologies. MasterChef SA has gained similar recognition and, of course, its own unique fan club.

September 5 brought master chef Benny Masekwameng, one of the judges, to the Southern Sun Emnotweni. “I love traditional food that can be enjoyed by the whole family,” he said during a question-and-answer session.

This was after the small group of guests and admirers had sunk their teeth into some of the dishes on offer. In fact, some had already allowed their sweet tooth to explore the desserts, which proved to be more than just yum-yum!

Benny grew up in Alexandra Township in Johannesburg. His mother started a small catering business and yes, you guessed it – this was where it all started. After completion of his catering studies at Natal Technikon, seven years with the Hilton Hotel Group and five years with Southern Sun developed his culinary skills and character. He is now the executive chef and a celeb in his own right.

He entertained guests with tricky food questions. Some answers generated much laughter and teasing and, nifty prizes were given for the correct ones.

His staunch supporters (or is it admirers?) were keen to solicit all sorts of inside info relating to the current competition, but he did not allow this to be peeled off his generous spirit. Watch the show!

The various local food fundi/lekkerbekke, who attended added interesting anecdotes to all and sundry – some of which will receive MasterChef approval and some won’t, but this is a story for another day, or rather dinner!

Oh, the food… it was like my grandmama used to say, “Ryk en so lekker soos moedersmelk!”