Johannesburg - This week, we feature culinary artist and the founder of GlamFoodie, Charmaine Ramalope-Makhubela.
She is well known for featuring in hit reality food show The Taste Master.
Besides being the founder of GlamFoodie, a social media community centred on a common love for food, she is also a recipe developer, a digital content creator and an event architect.
The meal that most reminds you of your childhood?
My grandmother’s fish and chips, which she would prepare for us each Friday. It was such a treat and I remember how excited I was to have it.
You have been tasked with preparing a three-course meal for President Cyril Ramaphosa. What dishes do you prepare?
Hmmm, what would I prepare for President Ramaphosa? It would be a simple but delicious three-course meal prepared on the braai (because you never know with Eskom).
Starter: Grilled oysters with a butter-garlic sauce
Main: Braai kudu steak, braai veggie skewers, braai bread, and chakalaka
Dessert: grilled honey-glazed pineapple with vanilla ice cream.
Your go-to take-out spot? What do you order?
Big Mouth, I usually order their Rainbow Sushi and Ribs. They never disappoint.
What Netflix series should everyone be watching?
You should be watching Chef’s Table on Netflix. If you have watched it, maybe watch it again. I love how they explore each chef’s personal life, passion and talents. It’s well-shot and each episode always leaves me inspired.
Your favourite item of clothing in your closet?
My Jacquemus Le Sac Rond Bag (Circle Purse) was so difficult to get hold of. I dragged my husband all over Paris looking for it and wouldn’t leave without getting it. I love the silhouette of the bag and have been a huge fan of the designer.
Three items that you can constantly find in your fridge?
Three items you’ll find in my fridge? A bottle of Spier MCC Brut, Salted Butter and Black Mamba Cayenne Chilli Sauce.
You are on death row. You are afforded one last meal and drink. What do you choose to have?
I’d love to relive my Eiffel Tower Madame Brasserie culinary experience. I was treated to a memorable multi-course food and wine pairing, which was prepared by Michelin Chef Thierry Marx.
The menu featured a blue lobster and caviar starter, grilled sea bass and cockles, foie gras and black truffles, and a rich dark chocolate mousse and fondant. I would, of course, wash it down with a glass of champagne.
The most adventurous thing you have ever eaten in your life?
I recently ate an Ethiopian dish “Tere Siga”, which is raw meat, usually cut off a hanging carcass and served with fiery spices. It was quite adventurous considering doctors warn that eating raw meat can have serious health complications.
The key to happiness?
The key to happiness is letting each situation be what it is instead of what you think it should be.
You can cook a dish with one famous chef from anywhere in the world. Whom do you choose?
I had a wonderful chance of meeting my food idol and Michelin Star Chef Massimo Bottura, while I was in Madrid, to attend The Best Chef’s Awards. He’s a culinary genius! I love how he’s constantly pushing boundaries and rewriting.