Jan van Riebeeck’s Company’s Garden must have been a feast for the eyes back in the late-1600’s. The pastor, Valentyn compares it with the exquisite ancient gardens of Hesperides and the hanging gardens of Babylon. According to him, the Company’s Garden was the most beautiful of them all. Valentyn futher writes that he had never...

Christmas meals are about having your loved ones around a table. If you are planning to have quite a few of your favourite people with you this year, why not try our Beef Prime Rib on the Bone. It will be an impressive centrepiece and you do not have to add anything more than the roasted...

Some of the fun of the holidays lies in the excess and richness of what we serve on our festive tables. That does not mean that something a little less decadent can’t be just as delicious though! Try our a recipe for whole roasted Franschhoek Salmon Trout and served it with an interesting combination of greens...

Pagan cultures regarded the wreath as a symbol of rebirth after winter and used it as a symbol of importance and success to be worn on the heads of victorious athletes in the ancient Olympic Games or as crowns by Roman leaders. In modern times, however, the wreath is used as a Christmas decoration and...

Wreaths are a traditional part of Christmas decoration. This year, take them to the table in an innovative way! Try the delicious wreath-shaped bread with cranberries and pistachios or makes this easy cheese ring that can serve as a delicious cheese course for the Festive Season, especially when served with a delightful sweet wine such as...

Pork is a typically traditional Christmas dish and, although serving a whole suckling pig can look very festive, it is hardly something one would attempt at home. Pork is also very versatile and can be smoked and served hot or cold. try our recipe for pork belly – with its crisp and golden crackling, it...

Delicious and light to serve as a shared starter, this dish also works wonderfully for supper on a balmy evening. With La Motte being situated in the Franschhoek Valley, we suggest Franschhoek trout, but any firm fish can be used – fresh water trout, small mullets, yellow tail, etc. Curing fish is a very old tradition...

Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant’s Winelands Tea celebrates the tradition of Cape hospitality as well as a heritage of passionate Cape cooks who were known for their pastries and confectionery. This charming and sentimental tea service has recently been re-interpreted and guests can expect the same style and elegance, but with a fresh look and...

An impressive dessert is an integral part of Christmas tradition and we were inspired by the modern white beauty and the rich history of the Blanc Mange. This dessert has been written about in Europe from the middle ages. Initially a savoury dish setting white meat such as chicken in almond milk, it is the sweeter...

Pancakes are still one of the favourite traditional desserts. At school fêtes, street markets, public gatherings and sport events, the familiar sweet cinnamon smell of freshly cooked pancakes will lure you to the pancake stall, and many people take out the pancake pan at the first sign of the winter chills and rainy weather. During...