MasterChef South Africa
Dedre ‘Didi’ Stols (30), Art Auctioneer, Langebaan
Signature dishes: Fish sauce caramel pumpkin puffs, soft Polish pierogi with sticky duck filling.
Favourite heritage foods: Waterblommetjiebredie, lamb curry bunny chow.
As much as she loved being an art auctioneer and gallery manager on cruise ships, the pandemic meant Didi has had more time to indulge her first love – food. Her cooking style is bold – it’s as complimentary as it is a juxtaposition of flavours.
As a child, she took out cookbooks from the library and since her free-spirited mother didn’t cook, the adventurous and creative Didi started cooking for the family aged just eight. She is drawn to the various curries of Asia, the picante combinations of Mexico, the comfort of South African food, the techniques of Europe, and the aromas of the Middle East. She is ready to make food her life. Her dream is to teach others to cook.