Lufuno Sinthumule

Lufuno Sinthumule, better known as Chef Funi is renowned for his South African inspired cuisine, and his recently, the much talked-about cookbook – Funi Cooks South Africa.

This Limpopo boy is no ordinary chef: He has lectured in food and hospitality at various colleges and universities countrywide, and has travelled widely.

His biggest passion however, is to contribute to healthy eating In South Africa. In his cookbook, he shows the way to cook healthy, very easy recipes with roots in the South African cultures.

We asked Chef Funi about his life, work and passions:

Your favourite local ingredient?

It is so difficult to pick just one ingredient but I love cooking with herbs, especially rooibos .

What would you cook when the days are dark and everybody needs a lifting of the spirits?

Braised oxtail with red wine.

What is your family’s favourite everyday food?

Pap, meat and tomato relish.

What will you eat in Paris – if budget is not an issue? (That is Paris France)

A seven course meal and definitely Pâté de Campagne.

Your favourite recipe from the “Funi Cooks South Africa” recipe book?

Walkie Talkies.

Chefs you admire: local?…….International…..? Why?

Reuben Riffel – he is respectful and humble guy and we just get along very well. Chef Albert Kooy – I would love to spend another day with him to learn more.

Favourite restaurant?

None

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Do you have your dream job, or is there more?

Having fun cooking with Funi’s range of products from spices to kitchen utensils. Today, I have my dream job: Culinary lecturer at the one of the Top Hotel School in Africa (The Cape Town Hotel School, CPUT).

Do you grow your own vegs?

Not at the moment, but I have my own herb garden.

Your favourite food blogger?

Nina Timm.

Your greatest achievement?

It was in 2010, when I graduated for my Masters Degree in Food Service Management.

If not cooking, what are your “hobbies”?

Watching TV

Your favourite author – fiction.

At the moment is E.L James

Favourite author cookbook?

Mary Berry

Your pet hate in SA foodie business?

The employment of unqualified people to work in the foodie business.

The most underrated ingredient in local cuisine.

Maize meal.

Funi Cooks South Africa was published in April 2015. It has 150 recipes and will cost about R320.

Stand a chance to win one of two cook books, ‘Funi Cooks South Africa’ by telling us what you think his biggest passion in life is! Competition runs 17 February 2016 – 24 February 2016

To find out more about his cookbook, contact Funi on 0837667791 or email funi@cookingwithfuni.com. The book is available all over South Africa. Check selected Exclusive books, www.takealot.com and www.megadigital.co.za.