Title holder of “Celebrity MasterChef South Africa” donated R520 000 to Ladles of Love, an NGO that provides nutritious food for small children in underserved communities. Picture: Supplied
Ladles of Love is a non-profit organisation that provides nutritious and healthy foods to vulnerable children and poverty-stricken communities.
“Some of these children have never had vegetables before, so having Seth create something delicious, but equally nutritious is extremely beneficial,” said founder of the organisation, Danny Diliberto.
As part of winning the coveted title, Shezi had the opportunity to nominate a charity to receive the donation.
Ladles of Love will use the funds to provide two nutritious meals per day for the whole year for 175 small children from two preschools in Delft and Fisantekraal.
This great initiative will address food security and support early childhood development.
Schools participating in the organisation’s feeding programme receive grains and staples, such as rice, pasta, barley, and foods with protein nutrients.
Shezi took on his final “Celebrity MasterChef SA” challenge and cooked for the toughest food critics, children.
The master chef showcased his culinary skills when he cooked pumpkin puree with soy mince relish, demonstrating that simple ingredients can be turned into delicious and healthy meals for children.
The session was graced with the presence of “MasterChef SA” judge and acclaimed chef, Zola Nene, among other honoured guests.
Shezi noted it was challenging cooking for the children, “because if they don't like it, they don't have to be politically correct about it”.
However, he had an amazing experience as the preschoolers enjoyed the meal.
Shezi explained the idea behind his dish was to inspire the chefs to be spontaneous in the kitchen, as they often cook similar dishes for the children.
“I was trying to inject a sense of excitement as the chefs have to cook similar meals week in and week out, and the kids may get bored.
“My challenge was to try and look at the ingredients they receive every week, and think of something they potentially haven't thought about, so that the chefs get excited to cook something new and the kids get something that's nutritious, but also something new,” said Shezi.
He added winning “Celebrity MasterChef SA” offered him the opportunity to tap into his humanitarian side.
“My life is imbued with fine dining, flying around the world to eat some of the finest food around the world.
“But there is a sense inside of you where you think, ‘how can I make this life choice meaningful?’, and to be given an opportunity like this to be able to close the loop and contribute is incredible,” said Shezi.
Shezi also shared practical tips with guests on getting creative with staple ingredients.
Ladles of Love programme director, Yolanda Jones, said: “Having Seth here today has been incredibly motivating for the cooks who prepare these meals daily. We’re confident that his insights will spark new recipe ideas using the ingredients we provide for the feeding scheme.”
The Star
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