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    The Lowest Calorie Meals On The Menus Of Kauai, Nando’s, Mugg & Bean, Simply Asia & More

    Let’s be real: when you’re on a particular diet, or trying to hit a health goal, the idea of going to a restaurant is… stressful. Which restaurant meal options are going to be delicious *and* high in protein or low in calories? Which one is actually nutritionally dense? If you’ve ever been fooled by the word “Caesar” preceding the word “salad”, you’ll know: being smart about restaurant meal options requires skill. Enter: these orders from country-wide restaurant chains, as recommended by dietician Taryn Bortz.What’s nutritionally dense food?“Nutrient-dense food is one that delivers a complete nutritional package rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that is relatively lower in calories,” explains Bortz. Look for things with a well-balanced ratio of protein, carbohydrates and fat to keep you feeling full for long and maintain blood sugar levels. And, make sure there is a variety of vegetables rich in micronutrients and fibre.What makes a high-protein meal?If your dish has more than 20% of its energy coming from protein, it’s considered high in protein. Protein provides the amino acids needed to build and repair muscle tissues, which is especially important for women who exercise, are ageing, or experience muscle loss due to hormonal changes (e.g., menopause). It’s also clutch for weight loss, since protein-rich foods can help women feel fuller longer, reducing overeating and aiding in weight control.How to pick a low-calorie restaurant mealPer Bortz, a meal below 400 calories is considered low in calories. If you’re looking to lose weight, low-calorie meals can help create a calorie deficit. Plus, low-calorie options allow you to eat more (and become fuller) with less food. To maximise your meal, pack your plate with whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, lean proteins and fruits, which are rich in essential nutrients.Simply Asia Meal RecommendationsHigh proteinImage from Simply Asia

    Chicken Green Curry (301)

    The traditional green curry option serves as a protein-rich meal and is also packed with antioxidants and fibre from the array of vegetables. The aromatic spices also provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This is a well-balanced meal that is bound to keep you feeling fuller for longer.

    Cal: 630, Pro: 60g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 23g, Fibre: 6gHigh nutrients Image by Timolina on Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Roasted Chilli Tamarind with Chicken (267)

    “This dish has a well-balanced ratio of protein, carbohydrates and fat to keep you feeling full for long and maintain blood sugar levels. The dish is served with jasmine rice which is an excellent source of vitamin B1, vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, and manganese. Tamarind is an edible fruit that is indigenous to tropical Africa and is rich in polyphenols providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

    Cal: 420, Pro: 43g, Carbs: 48g, Fat: 50g, Fibre: 5gLow calorie Image from Simply Asia

    Chicken Tom Yum Soup (201)

    Soups are both hydrating and nourishing, and a great winter warmer meal! This soup contains a good amount of protein and can serve as either a starter or a main meal. It is low carbohydrate, low fat and bulked up with a lot of flavoursome vegetables: mushrooms, tomato and chopped lemongrass flavoured with Tom Yum and roasted chilli paste, fish sauce, coconut milk and just a dash of lemon juice.

    Cal: 630, Pro: 22g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 7gREAD MORE: How Instagrammer The Healthy Process Healed Her Relationship With FoodWhat to order at Nando’sHigh protein Image from Nando’s

    Nando’s Boujee Bowl

    This meal has a good ratio of carbohydrates, protein and fat. Rice is a lower-calorie carbohydrate option compared to chips or wedges. You could bulk this meal by adding extra saucy spinach. There is evidence to support that the combination of food groups in a meal, particularly pairing protein with a carbohydrate, reduces the post-meal glucose response, keeping you fuller for longer.

    415kcal, 40g protein, 40g carbs, 10g fat, 5g fibreHigh nutrients Image from Nando’s

    Chicken Strips, Veg And Spicy Rice

    This meal is high in protein which also serves as a good post-workout meal to help build and repair lean body mass. It is bulked up with non-starchy vegetables which are high in fibre and water to keep you fuller for longer. The vegetables also contain antioxidants and vitamins which promote good health.

    335kcal, 31g protein, 40g carbs, 6g fat, 11g fibreLow calorie Image from Nando’s

    Chicken Salad

    Because this is so low in carbohydrates you can pair this with ½ Nando’s roll or a flame frilled mielie and your meal would still be below 400kcal. The pairing with a carbohydrate will leave you feeling fuller for longer and help maintain your blood sugar levels.  

    Cal: 353, Pro: 33g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 22g, Fibre: 11gKauai Meal OptionsHigh protein Image from Kauai

    Cajun Chicken Quesadilla

    This meal is 33% protein and has a good ratio of carbohydrates, protein and fat. To reduce the carbohydrate quantity, the wrap can be substituted for a low-carb wrap (approximately 20g carbohydrates per low-carb wrap and contains more fibre). This is an optimal post-workout meal.

    Cal: 537, Pro: 44g, Carbs: 43g, Fat: 21g, Fibre: 6.4gHigh nutrientsImage from Kauai

    Sriracha Chicken Salad

    This meal is packed with tomatoes, peppers and spinach which are high in vitamin C, iron and folate. There is also a good proportion of carbs and protein. To reduce the fat, only use half the dressing (ask for it to be served on the side). This can also help reduce the calories by a significant amount. There is also significant protein (the protein portion is higher than the carbohydrate) which will keep you feeling fuller for longer and prevent energy slumps throughout the day.

    Cal: 620, Pro: 31g, Carbs: 26g, Fat: 44g, Fibre: 10.5gLow calorieImage from Kauai

    Protein Plate With Broccoli

    “This meal is relatively high in protein, low in carbs and the fat can be adjusted if you add less of the lemon vinaigrette (which will reduce the calories below 400). It is packed with green vegetables which are high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.”

    Cal: 450, Pro: 27g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 36g, Fibre: 3.5gREAD MORE: How Many Carbs Should I Eat If I’m Trying To Lose Weight?Meal picks at Mugg & BeanHigh protein Image by Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Build Your Own Omelette

    Building your own omelette is a much better choice as you can add more protein fillings such as mozzarella cheese and macon. It is also significantly lower calories than choosing an omelette combination off the menu. Try these fillings: mozzarella, beef macon, mushroom, onion and tomato and one slice of rye toast.

    Cal: 730, Pro: 45g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 50g, Fibre: 7gHigh nutrientsImage by Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Mexican Chicken and Corn Salad

    This salad has a variety of different vegetables which all contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. The salad dressing adds to the high-fat content, however one can ask for the sauce on the side and only had half of the amount. This will lower the fat content drastically which will decrease the amount of calories consumed. The salad is also high in protein, which will keep you feeling fuller for longer.

    Cal: 350, Pro: 28g, Carbs: 36g, Fat: 20g, Fibre: 5gLow calorieImage from Mugg & Bean; for illustrative purposes only

    Chicken and Sesame Salad – Light Version

    This salad has a good amount of protein, carbohydrates and fat to keep you feeling full for long and maintain blood sugar levels. The fat content is much lower as compared to the other salads on the menu. Still, ask for the dressing separately to have control over the amount. The light version is much lower in carbohydrates compared to the regular version, which lowers the calorie content significantly.

    Cal: 332, Pro: 21g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g, Fibre: 5gMeals at Vovo TeloHigh protein Image from Vovo Telo

    Chicken Bunny Chow (Remove the Top Bun)

    This “burger” is very high in protein. Removing the top bun or replacing the bun with the ‘naked’ burger option will decrease the carbohydrates by 50%. The dish is lower in fat compared to others, as yoghurt is used instead of cream for the base of the butter chicken filling. The tomato and onion sambal with the fresh rocket filling adds extra antioxidants and fibre.

    Cal: 670, Pro: 62g, Carbs: 75g, Fat: 14g, Fibre: 5gHigh nutrientsImage by by timoliona on Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Roast Veg Salad

    Nutrient-dense food is one that delivers a complete nutritional package rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. This salad contains a diverse mixture of vegetables, healthy fats and antioxidants (aubergine, mixed leaves, butternut, peppers, toasted seeds, cashew nuts and feta). This salad is also high in fibre and contains more than half of the average person’s daily fibre requirement. This supports optimal gut health and microbiome. To save calories and decrease the fat, ask for the dressing on the side.

    Cal: 1000, Pro: 31g, Carbs: 120g, Fat: 78g, Fibre: 17gLow calorie Image by wirestock on Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    This is a great breakfast option as you can add extra protein or veg such as an extra egg/ spinach/ avo/ chicken livers or smoked trout. It is a low-calorie, low carb and fat and a high protein option.

    Cal: 240, Pro: 23g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 10gMeal ideas from FishawaysMost fillingImage from Fishaways; illustrative purposes only

    Grilled Large Hake with Small Rice and Green Salad 

    This meal has a good ratio of carbohydrates, protein and fat. 30% of the calories from this meal comes from protein, which indicates that it is a filling meal. Hake is a great protein option, and by choosing the grilled option you are saving a lot of extra calories coming from unhealthy fats! The savoury rice has vegetables which adds bulk, and a side green salad enhances the fibre, micronutrient and vitamin content of this meal.

    Cal: 500, Pro: 36.4g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 19gBest sideImage by by timolina on Freepik; for illustrative purposes only

    Greek Salad or Pop Prawns, Hake and Calamari box

    The choice of a side always depends on the composition of your main meal. If your meal contains sufficient protein and carbs, then a good option would be to add a salad or stir fry as a side option. If your meal contains minimal protein, a good side option or a starter to share is the Variety Box: Pop Prawns, Hake and Calamari.

    Cal: 168, Pro: 10g, Carbs: 13g, Fat: 27gLow calorieImage from Fishaways

    Grilled Hake Meal 

    This meal is full of fibre with vegetables and high in protein. Always ask for the dressing on the side to save on the calories from fat. Because this meal is low in carbs, you could pair it with a small savoury rice or a brown bread roll. To bulk up the protein or if you are still hungry, add on a side of small calamari strips.

    Cal: 399, Pro: 23g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 12gREAD MORE: You Can Make A Healthy, Protein-Packed Lunch In 5 MinutesThis article was first published in various issues of Women’s Health Magazine South Africa in 2024. Some meal options may have changed or been removed from restaurant menus; images are for illustrative purposes only. More

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    Grilled Romaine Lettuce, Sumac-Tahini Yoghurt and Pomegranates Salad

    Lettuce is one of the most versatile salad ingredients and, almost, pairs well with most fresh ingredients. Nothing says welcome summer quite like this creation by Chef Monché Muller. In case you’re struggling to find romaine lettuce, baby gem lettuce or radicchio will make great alternatives, too. And, if you can’t find pomegranate molasses, use honey or sweet molasses. Struggling with sumac? Use lemon pepper or add a little extra lemon zest.READ MORE: A Punchy, Citrusy Salad To Usher In Spring

    Grilled Romaine Lettuce, Sumac-Tahini Yoghurt and Pomegranates Salad

    Servings 4

    1 Serving Dish1 Griddle Pan
    4 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp Raspberry vinegar1 Tbsp Chopped mintSea salt and ground white pepper, to taste4 heads Romaine (cos) lettuce, halved lengthways175g Pomegranate rubies mint leaves, to garnishFor the sumac-tahini yoghurt:250 ml Greek yoghurt 1 Tbsp Minced garlic2 Tbsp Tahini paste1 Lemon, zested and juiced 1 Tbsp Sumac1 Tbsp  Pomegranate molasses salt, to taste
    Mix the oil, vinegar, mint and seasoning. Brush the dressing over the lettuce heads.Heat a griddle pan to smoking point, then place the lettuce, cut-side down, on the pan. Grill for 1–2 minutes until lightly charred.To make the yoghurt, mix all the ingredients, adding a dash of hot water if it’s too thick.Pipe or dollop the sumac-tahini yoghurt over the grilled lettuce, then sprinkle with the pomegranate rubies and garnish with mint leaves.

    READ MORE: You’re About To Get Addicted To This Rose-and-Raspberry Lemon Tart

    Harvest Table: A Culinary Journey Through the Wine Regions of France, Italy, Spain and South Africa

    Chef Monchè Muller’s book blossomed from a casual conversation about good food and wine into a much-loved project that tells many magnificent stories about ingredients, communities, local producers and the people behind Oddo Vins et Domaines wines. The recipes, some traditional and some curated especially for this book, are an ode to some culinary regions in France, Italy, Spain and our very own South Africa.

    READ MORE: This Easy Snap Peas Side Dish Deserves A Spot On Your Braai MenuYou may also enjoy these recipes/articles… More

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    Cast-Iron Spinach And Artichoke Dip, Perfect For Any Gathering

    Whether you’re hosting your in-laws, colleagues, your former high school mates or self-care Sunday with the girls, this spinach and artichoke dip is easy enough on the palette to be liked by all and is perfect for any gathering.READ MORE: These 7 Delish Pasta Sauces Also Burn Fat And Boost Your HealthSpinach and Artichoke Dip Made Easy

    Cast-Iron Spinach & Artichoke Dip

    Whip up this creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetiser that’s perfect for game day or a cosy night in.

    Prep Time 45 minutes mins

    Course Side Dish

    Calories 386 kcal

    1 Cast-iron skillet
    Canola oil, for grill grates220 g Cream cheese, at room temp½ cup Sour cream1 tsp Lemon zest plus 3 Tbsp lemon juice1 large Clove garlic, grated56 g Parmesan, grate (About ½ cup), dividedKosher salt and pepper400 g Artichokes, drained and chopped250 g Frozen leaf spinach, thaw and squeezed dry1 small loaf Country bread, sliced3 Tbsp Olive oil
    Set up grill for direct and indirect cooking and heat to medium. Once hot, clean and lightly oil grates with canola oil. In bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, lemon zest and juice, garlic, ¼cup Parmesan and ½ tap each salt and pepper. Fold in artichokes and spinach. Transfer to 20 cm cast-iron skillet.  Top with remaining ¼ cup Parmesan and cover with aluminium foil. Place skillet over indirect heat and cook, covered, 10 mins. Remove foil and rotate skillet, keeping over indirect heat; cook uncovered, until bubbling and golden brown, 18 to 20 mins. Remove from grill.Drizzle bread with olive oil and grill on direct heat, turning occasionally, until crisp, about 1 min.  Serve with dip. 

    Photographed By MIKE GARTEN Prop Styling By ALEX MATA Food Styling By SIMON ANDREWS

    Keyword Artichoke, Spinach

    Nutrition Facts: About 386 cal, 28 g fat (12 g sat), 11 g pro, 787 mg sodium, 24 g carb, 2 g fibre. READ MORE: How To Go Vegan: 15 Easy Nutritionist-Backed TipsMore stories to check out… More

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    Samp & Beans (Umngqusho), Exactly How Your Gran Made It

    First things first, samp and beans is not the type of dish you can cook when in a hurry. An African staple, with different versions found throughout southern Africa, both dried samp and dried beans need to be soaked before cooking – a process that slashes the cooking process in half. Below, cookbook author and TV chef Liziwe Matloha teaches us how to make this African classic! READ MORE: Chicken Necks, Feet And Gizzards For A Taste Of Home

    About Dinner At Matloha’s by Liziwe Matloha

    In this book, you’ll find recipes for all times of the day and every season. From oxtail stews that’ll remind you of your grandmother’s cooking to salads and soups – plus everything in between, Dinner At Matloha’s will cater to your every craving whether nostalgic, modern or simple.

    Let’s Make Umngqusho:PS: Seen #GutHealth all over your social media lately and want in? Samp and beans are jam-packed with fibre which is known to aid digestion and improve gut health.

    Umngqusho (Samp & Beans)

    Liziwe Matloha

    Course Side DishCuisine South African

    Servings 4

    1 Casserole Dish
    2 cups Dried samp1 cup Dried sugar beans2 tbsp Chicken stock powder2 Bay leaves3 cups Warm water5 tbsp Butter cut into cubesSalt and ground black pepper to taste
    1. Place the samp and sugar beans in a large bowl. Cover with warm water and leave to soak overnight, or for at least 4 hours. Drain the samp and beans and rinse briefly. Place in a large pot and cover with 3–4 cups water. Place over low heat and simmer for about 40 minutes, until just tender. 2. Drain the cooked samp and beans and return to the pot along with the chicken stock powder, bay leaves and salt and pepper to taste. Add 3 cups (750ml) warm water.3. Cook over low to medium heat for 45–50 minutes, until the samp and beans are soft and tender (add extra warm water if necessary). 4. Stir the butter into the warm umngqusho before serving.

    More recipes on our site: More

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    Chicken Necks, Feet And Gizzards For A Taste Of Home

    A great source of collagen, chicken feet are touted as skincare’s best kept secret. They consist mostly of connective tissue — skin, cartilage, tendons and bones. Chicken feet may not only improve skin health and appearance, but may help reduce your body’s joint pain. Below, TV chef, author and food editor Liziwe Matloha shows us how to prepare a chicken feet, gizzards and chicken neck mix that might just turn into a regular in your kitchen.Dinner At Matloha’s by Liziwe Matloha

    About Dinner At Matloha’s by Liziwe Matloha

    In this book, you’ll find recipes for all times of the day and every season. From oxtail stews that’ll remind you of your grandmother’s cooking to salads and soups – plus everything in between, Dinner At Matloha’s will cater to your every craving whether nostalgic, modern or simple.

    Chicken Necks, Gizzards and Feet Recipe“You can buy packets of cleaned and prepared frozen chicken necks, gizzards (known as ‘magies’) and feet from the supermarket. However, if you’re faced with having to clean them yourself, you might need to find someone to show you how to make them ‘ready for the pot,” advises Matloha.

    Chicken Necks, Gizzards and Feet

    Liziwe Matloha

    Servings 4

    1 Casserole Pot1 Knife
    250g Chicken gizzards250g Chicken necks350g Chicken feet1 Medium Onion, chopped1 tsp Salt2 Tbsp Mild curry powder1 tsp Peri-peri powder1 tsp Dried rosemary, origanum or mixed herbs  1 cube Stock cube Salt and ground black pepper to taste
    Place the gizzards in a pot. Cover with water and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 30 minutes, or until just tender. While the gizzards are cooking, place the necks and feet in a separate pot, along with the onion, curry powder, peri-peri powder, dried herbs, stock cube and salt and pepper to taste. Cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook on medium heat for 40 minutes. At the end of the cooking time, add the cooked gizzards to the pot with the necks and feet. Continue cooking for a further 15 minutes (top up with a little boiling water, if necessary), until you have a rich, glossy gravy. Serve with pap or samp.

    “You can buy packets of cleaned and prepared frozen chicken necks, gizzards (known as ‘magies’) and feet from the supermarket. However, if you’re faced with having to clean them yourself, you might need to find someone to show you how to make them ‘ready for the pot,” advises Matloha.

    More recipe ideas: More

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    This Easy Snap Peas Side Dish Deserves A Spot On Your Braai Menu

    Balancing a summer braai menu need not be complicated. Braais, by their very nature, are meant to free up your time – allowing you enough time to chat away while tending (not stressing) about your dishes. This snap peas recipe retains nutrients and it only takes 15 mins to prep. Plus, snap peas are packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, which aids with immune function and helps heal cuts and wounds; iron, which helps produce red blood cells – as well as Vitamin K, which boosts bone health and helps with blood clotting.READ MORE: How To Keep Your Vegetables Fresher For Longer — 6 Genius HacksBlistered Snap Peas RecipeLooking to bulk up your vegetable dishes at a braai? Look no further than this blistered snap pea recipe that takes little time to prepare.

    Blistered Snap Peas

    This snap peas recipe retains nutrients and it only takes 15 mins to prep.

    Prep Time 15 minutes mins

    Course Lunch

    Servings 4Calories 111 kcal

    1 Vegetable Grill Basket1 Mixing Bowl1 Serving Platter
    450 g Snap peas, strings removed2 Tbsp Olive oil½ to 1 tsp Chilli powder 2 Lemons, plus wedges for servingCoriander, for servingKosher salt
    Place grill basket on grill and heat grill and basket, covered, on high for 10 mins. In large bowl, toss snap peas with oil, chilli powder and ½ tsp salt. Add to grill basket and grill, tossing twice, until charred and just tender, 5 to 8 mins. Squeeze juice of ½ lemon on top and toss to combine. Transfer to shallow bowl or platter and serve with additional wedges and sprinkle with coriander if desired. 

    Nutrition Facts: About 111 cal. 7 g fat (1 g sat), 4 g pro, 245 mg sodium, 10 g carb 3 g fibre. 
    Photographed By MIKE GARTEN Prop Styling By ALEX MATA Food Styling By SIMON ANDREWS

    Keyword Pea Recipe

    Nutrition Facts: About 111 cal. 7 g fat (1 g sat), 4 g pro, 245 mg sodium, 10 g carb 3 g fibre. How To Make Your Grilling Basket Work Best For YouHere’s how to help prevent foods from sticking, and for extra browning, preheat your grilling basket on the grill before adding ingredients.Toss ingredients. We like snap peas, green beans, small potatoes and carrots – with oil and seasonings before placing in the grill basket. 

    Arrange foods in a single layer. This helps maximise browning and minimise steaming.

    Resist the urge to flip or stir your food often. As with cooking indoors, the less you turn it, the more flavour and browning you’ll develop!READ MORE: 10 Keto-Friendly Vegetables That Are Incredibly Low-CarbMore recipes to try… More

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    Mouthwatering Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches

    Love or hate it, pork is an excellent source of zinc, selenium and vitamins B12 and B6 all of which contribute to helping the immune system function normally. Pork is also a source of vitamins B6, Niacin and Riboflavin that help reduce tiredness and fatigue. Read on to discover one more way to jazz up your pork dishes. READ MORE: A Punchy, Citrusy Salad To Usher In SpringPork Tenderloin Sandwiches RecipeEnjoy a juicy and flavourful pork tenderloin basted with a sweet and tangy honey-mustard sauce. Perfect for a summer picnic or a quick weeknight dinner.

    Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches

    Enjoy a juicy and flavourful pork tenderloin basted with a sweet and tangy honey-mustard sauce. Perfect for a summer picnic or a quick weeknight dinner.

    Prep Time 40 minutes mins

    Course LunchCuisine American

    Servings 4

    1 Small saucepan1 Thermometer
    1 Tbsp Olive oil1 clove Garlic, grated¼ cup Yellow mustard¼ cup Dijon mustard¼ cup Cider vinegar2 Tbsp Packed light brown sugar2 Tbsp Honey1 tsp Hot sauce1 tsp Worcestershire sauce450 g Pork tenderloin, trimmedKosher salt and pepper4 Ciabatta rolls, split and grilled1 Heart romaine, thinly sliced4 Mini-coloured peppers, very thinly sliced
    Heat grill to medium-high. Heat oil and garlic in small saucepan on medium until fragrant, 30 secs. Add mustards, vinegar, brown sugar, honey hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce and whisk to combine. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 3mins.; remove from heat (you should have about 3/4 cup).Season pork with 2 tsp each salt and pepper and grill, covered, turning occasionally, 12 mins. Continue grilling, basting with ¼ cup sauce, until instant-read thermometer registers 63°C , 3 to 6 mins. more. Transfer Pork to cutting board and let rest at least 5 mins. before thinly slicing.Drizzle bottom pieces of rolls with 1/2 Tbsp sauce each, then make sandwiches with lettuce, peppers and pork. Drizzle with remaining sauce and add tops to make sandwiches.

    Secret Sauce: Made with mustard, brown sugar and a splash of cider vinegar, this sandwich’s sauce is inspired by South Carolina–style barbecue. It’s said that the sauce came to be when the state’s immigrant German population added mustard to the BBQ sauce created and popularised by enslaved Africans.
    Nutritional Facts: About 445 cal. 8.5g fat (1.5 g sat), 31g pro, 1 169 mg sodium, 59g carb, 4g fibre. 
    Photographed By MIKE GARTEN Prop Styling By ALEX MATA Food Styling By SIMON ANDREWS

    Nutritional Facts: About 445 cal. 8.5g fat (1.5 g sat), 31g pro, 1 169 mg sodium, 59g carb, 4g fibre. READ MORE: The Potato Flight Trend Is Having A Moment — Here Are 3 Stuffed Potato Recipes You’ll LoveMore recipes to try… More

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    This Healthy Cauliflower Risotto Is A Winter Dream

    A classic, cosy way to cook rice, the risotto stands out not only as a filling and delicious dish but as a veritable winter warmer. And this healthy cauliflower risotto ticks all the boxes.

    This recipe, from Executive Chef Kerry Kilpin’s new offering at Steenberg Wine Farm’s Bistro Sixteen82 winter menu, nails it.

    The new winter menu at Bistro Sixteen82, curated by Kilpin, embodies the essence of winter comfort. Featuring an array of fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, the menu includes highlights such as umami-glazed Cape Bream and heart-warming desserts like Valrhona chocolate marquise, promising a sensory feast that celebrates the best of what the colder months have to offer.

    But if you can’t make it to the lush foothills of the Steenberg valley, Chef Kilpin has this healthy cauliflower risotto recipe to cosy you up.

    The key to a perfect risotto

    Use the right rice

    A short-to-medium grain rice does well and absorbs the liquid, making it velvety and rich. Another tip: don’t wash the rice beforehand – you want that extra starch to create a good, rich texture.

    Go slowly

    Per Jamie Oliver, cook your risotto slowly on low heat. Also add your broth in ladles: this gives the rice time to absorb each spoonful of broth, slowly plumping up that grain.

    Pay attention

    Like the perfect scrambled egg, you can’t leave a risotto unattended. Stir frequently to prevent the dish from sticking to the bottom of the pan and make sure the rice never dries out.

    Healthy Cauliflower, Corn & Bacon Risotto

    Executive Chef Kerry Kilpin

    This healthy cauliflower risotto is a winter dream and comes together in minutes.

    Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes mins

    Course Appetizer, Lunch, Main Course, StarterCuisine Healthy, Italian

    1 onion, chopped100 g butter2 cloves garlic, chopped200 g risotto rice200 ml Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc, or dry white wine15 ml smoked paprika1 cup frozen corn250 g streaky bacon, chopped½ head cauliflower  blended roughly to make “cauliflower rice” 2 cup chicken stock2 sprigs rosemary, chopped125 g parmesan, grated20 g parsely
    Sweat your onions and garlic with 50g butter in a pot for about 2 minutes. Add your rice, cook for a further minute until the rice starts to go translucent on the outside. Add the wine and allow the wine to cook off and the rice to absorb all the liquid. Add the paprika, bacon and enough stock to cover the rice. Cook on a medium heat. After a further 2 minutes, add the cauliflower, corn and rosemary and top with stock. Throughout the cooking process you will add stock and stir from time to time. Keep your risotto moist at all times. If you run out of stock and your rice isn’t cooked, top up using water. Once your rice is about 2 minutes off from being cooked, add the parmesan, butter and parsley and allow to melt. Season to taste and enjoy with a glass of Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc.

    Keyword bacon, comfort food, Easy Meals, risotto

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