13 Feb 2025

This Valentine’s Day, lovebirds need not look further for a simple to follow recipe for their romantic dinner, as rising culinary star, Clifford Mafoko, has their backs.

With a Rising Star and Mentorship award from the recent Young Chef Olympiad Tournament that took place in India, one of the largest culinary contests for young chefs in the world, Mafoko has left a mark as one chef to look out for.

Stirring love this Valentine’s Day season, Mafoko brings ton the table a simple menu that promises to be a feast for both the heart and senses.

Greatly praised for his hard work and innovative approach to fine dining by his mentors, Mafoko dished his thoughts out to BOPA on an ideal Valentine’s Day cuisine, which couples would thoroughly savour.

His Valentine’s Day special features starters of beetroot bao buns with fried chicken and cucumber slaw and charcoal bread as well as a chakalaka spread, mince and coral tuile.

His entrée features a vegetable tofu stir fry, dough filled with vegetable tofu stir fry, carrot and turnip kimchi and pumpkin puree garnished with deep fried carrot peels, micro herbs and reduced soya sauce.

His dessert features a pap tart casing with crème pat and pear rose as a garnish. Speaking about his inspiration for these ideal dishes, Mafoko said he selected the dish to capture the essence of love, which offers rich flavours, with vibrant colours and a touch of indulgence.

 “I focused on the ingredients that symbolise romance and create an unforgettable experience for the diner, creating emotions on the plate because Valentine’s is all about sharing moments and what better way than through an unforgettable dining experience,” said Mafoko. ENDS