About – The Cape Malay Food Market

About

YOUR HOST

Born in Cape Town into a local Cape Malay family where everything revolves around food. I have had more than 35 years of experience cooking traditional Cape Malay favourites. Although I am a professional transport planning consultant I have always had a passion for cooking the unique flavours of our local cuisine. I opened a restaurant a few years ago in the Cape Quarter called The Cape Malay Food Market and have hosted multiple group cooking events to teach specialist techniques in a fun group environment. I have an organic and creative approach to cooking. I believe a large part of cooking is “going with your gut” and trusting your senses.

Zaida Tofie

history of cape Malays

Cape Town is a melting pot of culture, and one of the most important groups to shape the city’s history is commonly referred to as the Cape Malay. It’s a contentious name—people both inside and outside the community have objected to the term’s inaccuracy, and to the fact that it really originated as a term used to racially classify people under the oppressive apartheid regime. - Cape Town Travel

Click on the links below to read some more about the Cape Malay heritage, language and culture

Glossary of Spices

Cape Malay cuisine is a fusion of South Asian, Dutch, Indian and French influences which were some of the displaced communities in the Cape Colony in the 15th century either as a result of slavery, political exiles or seeking new opportunities. The strategic location of the Cape of Good Hope along the valuable spice route also contributed to the unique spice combinations which give Cape Malay dishes its signature tastes.