Cooking My Culture: My South African Cooking Journey on YouTube
By Nandi Mhlongo
It all began in my grandmother's kitchen, a place that felt like the heart of our home. The smell of bunny chow simmering on the stove mingled with the sweet scent of koeksisters cooling on the counter. I can still hear her laughter as she taught me to cook, her hands moving with a grace that came from years of practice. Those moments were more than just lessons; they were a tradition, a way of connecting with my roots. So, when I decided to start my YouTube cooking channel, I knew I wanted to share not just recipes but a piece of my soul.
Let me take you on a journey through the kitchen. Picture this: a cozy space filled with pots, pans, and spices. The walls are adorned with family photos, and the sound of my favorite Afrikaans music plays softly in the background. As I set up my camera, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves. This is it; I’m about to share my love for South African cuisine with the world!
The First Video
My first video was a tribute to my grandmother, where I attempted her famous biltong recipe. Now, if you’ve never had biltong, you’re missing out! It’s a type of dried meat that is a staple in South African homes. But let me be honest; I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. I had never filmed myself cooking before. Would I look silly? Would I forget the steps?
As I started talking to the camera, I quickly realized that I was just chatting with a friend. I poured the vinegar over the meat, sprinkled the spices, and shared stories about my childhood. I laughed at my own mistakes, like when I accidentally spilled too much salt. But that’s the beauty of cooking, right? It’s about experimenting and learning. When I finally tasted my biltong, it was like a warm hug from my grandmother herself.
The Response
I hit “upload” and waited. You know that feeling when you’re nervous about how others will react? I felt like I was standing on the edge of a cliff, ready to jump. But when I started getting comments, my heart soared. People were excited to see South African dishes and shared their own stories about food and family. It was incredible.
One viewer wrote, “I haven’t had biltong in years! Thank you for taking me back!” That comment reminded me why I started this journey. It’s about connecting with others, sharing our cultures, and celebrating our heritage. Each video was turning into a conversation, and I loved it.
Finding My Voice
As I continued making videos, I found my voice. I started experimenting with traditional recipes, giving them a modern twist. One day, I decided to try my hand at potjiekos, a delicious stew typically cooked outdoors in a cast-iron pot. I invited friends over to help, turning it into a mini celebration. Cooking for others is such a joy; there’s something magical about gathering around a table filled with good food and laughter.
Throughout my cooking journey, I learned to embrace the imperfections. I would have days where the pap was too thick or the samosas didn’t crisp up as expected. But I realized that those moments were just as important as the successes. It’s all part of the process, and I wanted my viewers to see that cooking isn’t just about perfection; it’s about love and creativity.
Sharing More than Recipes
With every video, I made an effort to share a bit of our culture. I talked about the history behind braai, the South African barbecue, and explained how food is a significant part of our celebrations. I introduced people to chakalaka, a spicy vegetable relish that brings life to any meal. I even shared stories about my childhood experiences at family gatherings, where food was the centerpiece of our togetherness.
The more I shared, the more I realized that cooking is not just a skill; it’s storytelling. Each dish has its history, its roots. It’s about the flavors that come together, just like the people in our lives.
Building a Community
As the months went by, my YouTube channel grew, and so did my sense of community. I started hosting live cooking sessions where we could all cook together in real-time. It was heartwarming to see people from all over the world joining in, sharing their own twists on traditional recipes. The chat was buzzing with excitement, and I felt like I was hosting a big family reunion.
One lovely viewer, who lived abroad, shared how she missed her mother’s bunny chow. Together, we cooked it live, and when she tasted it, her reaction was priceless. Those moments made my heart swell with joy. Food has this extraordinary ability to bring people together, regardless of distance.
The Unexpected Challenges
Of course, this journey hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. There have been days filled with self-doubt and frustration. I’ve faced negative comments that made me question my abilities. But I learned to take a step back, breathe, and remember why I started. It’s about passion, connection, and sharing my love for South Africa. I realized that criticism is just noise compared to the love and support I receive from my community.
The Future Ahead
As I sit here today, reflecting on this journey, I can’t help but feel grateful. My YouTube channel has become more than just a cooking platform; it’s a celebration of who I am and where I come from. I’ve met incredible people, learned new things, and shared countless memories through the love of food.
What’s next for me? Well, I’m thinking of launching a cookbook that combines my favorite recipes with the stories behind them. I want to bring a piece of South African cuisine to kitchens around the world.
Final Thoughts
So, to you reading this, I encourage you to embrace your own culinary journey. Whether it’s cooking a dish from your childhood or trying something new, let it be a reflection of who you are. Share your stories, laugh at your mistakes, and savor every moment.
What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!