Winter cooking made simple by Sandton chef
From slow-cooked stews to smart meal prepping, a local chef explains how households can stay warm and save money during the winter season.
Winter is the season for comfort food, and according to local chef Kabelo Molosiwa, it is also the perfect time to cook smarter.
With more than 10 years of experience in the kitchen, Molosiwa has built a reputation for preparing hearty meals that bring warmth and nostalgia to the table.
He has been part of the team at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton for the past five years, where seasonal menu changes are a regular part of the job.
Read more: Hotel launches renewed blanket drive to support vulnerable communities this winter
“Winter cooking is exciting because it allows us to focus on slow-cooked meals that are comforting and easy to prepare. It reminds me of home and the meals we grew up eating.” During winter, dishes such as lamb shanks, oxtail, and beef stew become customer favourites because they are filling and warming.
However, Molosiwa said the season also presents an opportunity for families to save money by using ingredients creatively.
“One of the things we do is use off-cuts from meat to create new dishes like pies or stews. It helps reduce waste and allows us to make more meals from the same ingredients.”
He added that simple additions like vegetables and starches can help stretch meals further, making them more affordable for households. “Sometimes it is not about the meat itself, but the flavour and what you serve it with.”
Also read: Chef D brings township flavours and childhood memories to Sandton
Another practical tip he shared is meal preparation. “Cooking in bulk and freezing meals in portions can make winter cooking much easier. When you come home tired, you already have something ready to heat and eat.”
While slow cooking is ideal during winter, Molosiwa warned against leaving food on the stove for too long.
“Overcooking can spoil the taste of the meal. Even slow-cooked dishes need the right balance and attention.”
As families look for ways to stay warm this winter, Molosiwa believes that simple planning, smart cooking, and hearty meals can make the season both enjoyable and affordable.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
