Quite often I read posts from individual cooks who express a high level of dissatisfaction with their choice to work in kitchens. In some cases, this dissatisfaction leans towards contempt – loads of anger pointed at the job and those who employ cooks to service their clientele. While many of the concerns expressed by [...]
As the first fierce winds of winter whip around the Cape Peninsula, residents experience one of the wettest cyclones to hit Cape Town, the first of the seasonal onslaught of Cape storms. While the landscape transforms into lush greens, we huddle for shelter and warmth as the barometer plummets to single figures, sometimes in the [...]
A renewed interest in foraging is sweeping across South Africa's culinary scene, but is this trend truly sustainable, or are we risking harm to the delicate balance of our natural ecosystems? While foraging offers a compelling connection to nature and access to unique, localized ingredients, experts warn that its growing popularity demands responsible practices to [...]
The clatter of cutlery, the murmur of conversation, the soft glow of ambient lighting – these are no longer just background noise in a restaurant. They're integral components of a dining experience that is increasingly valued as much, if not more, than the food itself. A seismic shift is underway in people's culinary expectations with [...]
Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t just about robots or algorithms analysing data. It’s changing the way we live, one meal at a time. From helping you decide what to eat to plating your dishes like a pro, AI in cooking is transforming this everyday activity into something smarter, more efficient, and even more exciting. Let’s explore [...]
Every home cook has been there—you’re halfway through a recipe when you suddenly you find yourself running low or missing some critical ingredients. Do you abandon your culinary masterpiece? Order takeout? Panic? Absolutely not! The secret to great cooking isn’t just about following recipes—it’s about knowing how to adapt, improvise, and make magic with what [...]
At Stir Crazy, we train our chefs that delicious cooking is an artful balance of flavours. Beyond the simple addition of salt and pepper, understanding the interplay of sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami is key to creating truly memorable dishes. Imagine this - you've diligently followed a recipe, the kitchen is filled with [...]
We've all seen them - most often late at night as we're leaving the restaurant. You can make out the shapes sitting in an alleyway, the giveaway glow of a cigarette lighting up their faces, chatting about the shift that just ended. You hurry your loved ones past them before they see you, concerned that [...]
Is culinary school worth it? Let’s explore the advantages and downsides of getting a culinary degree or diploma. Whether you’re a high school student debating your next move… an established adult considering a career change… or an experienced cook looking to advance your skills or start your own business… attending culinary school is a big [...]
Let's face it - as much fun as cheffing is, its as much hard work. And a lot of fun... We thought we'd showcase the day in the life of a chef, so people know what we face every day. We're sure you've all seen the series The Bear, Burnt, Chef and other movies about cheffing, [...]
