Chefs, bloggers and cheesemakers will demonstrate just how innovative cooking with cheese can be during the 2012 Cheese Festival this weekend. Autumn is the perfect time for a day in the country. When it’s combined with an array of soft, hard, blue and even red cheeses, alongside rustic produce including preserves, olives and artisan breads and pastries, outdoor cafés and local wines – it’s a must-do event.
It’s certain to be a sensory adventure next to none, and a family affair as well: children will revel in meeting the doe-eyed, docile sources of our milk at the Agricultural Milk Factory.
Add variety to your cheese repertoire with samples from South African artisan cheesemakers, some of whom are festival first-timers: look out for Kleinfontein, Mestervik and Langbaken cheese. Karoo Milk Goat products and Buffeljagsrivier Primary are other newcomers to the cheese scene.
Meet local celebs, with Nataniël at the Checkers Theatre, and watch chefs in action at the DStv Food Theatre.
The spacious grounds of Sandringham, off the N1, make the venue. The festival runs from 10am to 6pm from April 27 to 30. Tickets cost R110, while children 13 and under enter for free. As tickets will not be sold at the gate, it’s essential that you buy yours either through Computicket or at Checkers stores. Visit www. cheesefestival.co.za for more information or phone Agri-Expo on 021 975 4440. - Cape Argus
Also, Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa has added an exciting cheesy twist to the menu in celebration of the SA Cheese Festival with a unique three course menu featuring cheese-inspired cuisine with a modern spin.
Having recently evolved the culinary direction of Le Franschhoek, Executive Chef Oliver Cattermole has created a menu for cheese lovers and foodies alike to enjoy with suggested wines over the long weekend 27–30 April.
Guests can indulge in this journey of cheese at Le Verger Restaurant, set in a garden of orchards over-looking the Franschhoek Mountains, or the elegant Dish Restaurant that conveys a French-dining experience.