Inspired Living SA

05/08/2024

Join in the festivities and celebrate Women’s Day with a Besties Brunch at Somerset West on the 9th of August at 11AM. 🎉🥂💃🏼

Enjoy a delicious breakfast, with coffee, and a mimosa, as well as a guest speaker. The perfect way to celebrate this special day and the special gals in your life.

Bookings via dineplan https://bit.ly/3xuGAwA

05/08/2024

Join in the festivities and celebrate Women’s Day with a Besties Brunch at Tiger's Milk Somerset West on the 9th of August at 11AM. 🎉🥂💃🏼

Enjoy a delicious breakfast, with coffee, and a mimosa, as well as a guest speaker. The perfect way to celebrate this special day and the special gals in your life.

Bookings via dineplan https://bit.ly/3xuGAwA

01/08/2024

Situated in the Samara Karoo Reserve in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the Karoo Lodge has undergone extensive renovations, giving it a fresh and contemporary look while maintaining its charming farmhouse feel. After just over six years since my previous visit, it was just as magical, if not more so, than I remember.

Samara Karoo Lodge in the Eastern Cape has undergone extensive renovations, giving it a fresh contemporary look while maintaining its charming farmhouse feel.

25/07/2024

Winter warmer recipes - the Ultimate Beef Stew 🔥

What is your favourite winter warmer recipe? For me, winter is synonymous with cosy evenings, comfort food, fantastic red wine, and great company. One of my top winter meals is a stew, which pairs exceptionally well with red wine. As it is Shiraz Day today and it is freezing, the timing is perfect! 🥘🍷🔥

Making a stew does take time and preparation, but the rich, heavenly result is worth all the effort. My Ultimate Beef Stew Recipe is a take on beef bourguignon but with a South African twist. I added a few tablespoons of Jalapeño Atchar to give it a wonderfully spicy, aromatic kick. (Scroll across for the full recipe and save for later, or find a link in my bio)

Regarding cooking methods, I cook my stew on the stovetop. However, once you have browned the meat and combined all the ingredients, you can also cook it in the oven. Another option is using a slow cooker.

09/07/2024

Can I share a secret with you?

When dining out I am not easily impressed but our experience was nothing short of fabulous! Such delicious food and a wonderful intimate atmosphere. I can tell you all about the amazing things we ate but it really is something you need to experience for yourself! What I will say though is that the Duck Fat Fries are next level 👌🏼😅😊

04/07/2024

KAAS CLUB 🧀

Kaas Club by Dalewood is my kind of club! Fantastic artisanal cheese + excellent local wines + fabulous company = pre-rugby plans sorted for Saturday’s match! 🫶🏻🧀

All the cheeses we tasted were incredible - the crowd favourite, however, was the Wild Mushroom Wineland Brie! 👌🏼🧀

Please visit the page to find out how to order their amazing selection of cheeses and other delicious cheese-related products online! Alternatively, if you are in the area, pop into the Cheesery Shop on the farm. 

28/06/2024

Save this for the next time you visit the Constantia Wine Route. ➤

The has always been a favourite of mine! Grant, I visited recently to try their new winter menu. It was fantastic and the perfect opportunity for a romantic lunch date—delicious food, fabulous wine, and the best company. 🍴🍾🥂🍷

We were fortunate with the weather and opted to sit outside on the deck. However, the recent addition of a fireplace inside makes it the perfect spot for cosy winter lunch dates! 🔥

Menu Highlights: The Smoked Snoek Pate, served with bread and other nibbles, was incredibly moreish. For starters, we opted for Garlic Mussels and Leek Soup; both dishes were delicious! The main course standout dish was the Fish of the Day, perfectly cooked Kingklip in a creamed garlic prawn and potato bisque - mouthwateringly good! I chose the Bread and Butter Pudding for dessert, while Grant decided on the Malava Pudding. It is hard to pick a favourite between the two, but, in my opinion, the bread and butter pudding was perfection, and I will remember the heavenly homemade vanilla ice cream for some time to come! 👌🏼

We enjoyed a glass of Vin de Constance to round off an excellent meal. If you have never had it before, I highly recommend you do—it is “nectar from the gods.”

Winter Menu: Two courses are R395 (R295 Vegetarian), and three Courses are R495 (R395 Vegetarian). Wine pairing per dish is R60 per 100ml.

The Bistro is open Monday through Sunday for lunch only. The kitchen closes at 3 p.m., and curated cheese plates are available until 4 p.m.

26/06/2024

Congratulations Morgenster! Their Reserve Red 2016 recently scored an outstanding 95 points from Decanter🏅👏🏼

We had the pleasure of enjoying this wine during a weekend away with friends, and it deserves every one of those 95 points! The Reserve Red 2016 is an outstanding wine that beautifully balances the influences of both nature and nurture! This exquisite blend is characterized by its classic aromas of ripe dark berries, luscious black plums, and rich cassis. The wine’s striking combination of complexity and elegance reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that went into creating it.

“An excellent wine with great complexity and character” - Decanter, 2024)

This award-winning wine is now available at the Morgenster tasting room, the online shop and selected retailers. RRP R690.

09/06/2024

Introducing the newly released Single Cultivar range from Estate, where elegance meets sophistication in every sip. The 2023 Sauvignon Blanc delights with tropical flavours and a zesty finish, while the 2022 Cabernet Franc exudes classical elegance with rich red fruit and smooth tannins. Experience everyday luxury with each bottle.🍷✨

Available directly from the estate, the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is R150 per bottle, and the 2022 Cabernet Franc is R180 per bottle.

22/05/2024

The Sights & Sounds of Samara 🐾

Magical sighting of a beautiful Lioness at 🙌🏼

09/05/2024

GlenWood Vineyards - a must-do sushi & wine experience In Franschhoek 👌🏼🍷🍣

08/05/2024

Glenwood Vineyards - a must-do sushi & wine experience in Franschhoek 👌🏼🍷🍣

Save this post for your next Franschhoek visit ✨

01/05/2024

An impromptu wine tasting date at Backsberg in Franschhoek 🍷❤️

Sometimes the spur of the moment experiences turn out to be the best ones!

We decided on a whim to venture out to Franschhoek and found ourselves at Backsberg Family Wines.

Greeted by the super friendly staff we picked a spot overlooking the stunning valley and mountain. Grant and I both opted for the “Fifth Generation” wine tasting, which includes 5 Fifth Generation Backsberg wines for R75. We also ordered the Grazer sharing platter, which was packed full of delicious goodies - perfect to enjoy while wine tasting.👌🏼

Overall it was a fantastic experience - great food and wine and awesome company! Not to forget the wonderful service! ✨

17/03/2024

Fantastic time exploring the Robertson Wine Valley ✨I just wish we could have stayed longer because there is so much to see and do! The best excuse to visit again soon 😊🍾🥂🍷

01/01/2024

Happy New Year ✨Wishing you a prosperous 2024 filled with realised aspirations, new adventures and fulfilled dreams!

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

08/12/2023

Crags Country Lodge is a 5 Star haven of peace & tranquility located just outside Plettenberg Bay. This is a tour of the stunning accommodation 🤩 I will share more about this fabulous property soon!

Crags Country Lodge

08/12/2023

Did you know that Plettenberg Bay is home to the smallest wine-growing region in South Africa?🍇🥂🍷

The Plettenberg Bay wine route spans 18 wine farms and 57 kilometres along a beautiful stretch of coastline, from Harkerville to the Crags. Estates in the area showcase a variety of cultivars, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Semillion, Chardonnay, Rosé, as well as award-winning Cap Classique. 🍷 🥂

During our recent trip to Plett, we were thrilled to discover that the Crags Country Lodge is conveniently located near several incredible Wine Estates, making it the perfect spot to explore this charming wine region. Many of these estates provide a great selection of laid-back lunch options, from delectable cheese and charcuterie platters to shareable tapas-style plates. I highly recommend adding the Plett Wine Route to your itinerary when visiting the Garden Route.

Click on the link in my profile to learn more about the Plett Winelands. 

26/11/2023

Summer is here and it is the perfect time to up your salad game! Try my Thai Beef Salad, the perfect combination of melt-in-the mouth seared steak and crunchy, spicy deliciousness! And what better way to enjoy it than with a glass of Garden Route Wines Shiraz? ☀️ 🍷 🥗 

Thai Beef Salad Recipe:
Ingredients:
* 500g beef rump steak
* 200g baby tomatoes
* 1 cucumber
* 3 Radishes
* 2 spring onions
* 1 red chilli 
* 1 bunch fresh mint leaves 
* 1 bunch fresh coriander leaves 
* Black & white sesame seeds

Method: 
Drizzle the beef steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Sear the rump steak on a hot grill for approximately 4 - 5 minutes per side for medium rare. Set aside to rest.

Next, slice the cucumber into ribbons. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, and thinly slice the radishes and chilli. Layer the salad ingredients on a serving dish, starting with the cucumber. Keep some of the radishes and chilli aside.

Once the steak has rested, slice and add it to the salad. Scatter over the sliced radish, mint, coriander leaves and chilli. Sprinkle black and white sesame seeds over the salad.

DRESSING
Ingredients:
* 1 clove garlic, crushed
* Small k**b ginger grated
* 1 red chilli
* 2 Tsp Sesame oil
* 1 Tbs fish sauce
* 1 Tbs soy sauce
* 1 Tbs Rice Vinegar
* 1 Tbs Oyster sauce
* 2 Tbs lime juice
* 1 Tsp honey

Method:
Mix all the ingredients together, whisk until well combined, and pour over the salad. Serve with a glass of the Garden Route Shiraz and enjoy!

The wine’s bold and spicy notes complement the salad’s tangy and savoury dressing, making it a match made in heaven for a summer meal.

(Find a link to Garden Route Wine Shiraz in my bio)

13/11/2023

RECIPE | Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Ingredients:
* 2 Punnets of asparagus spears
*  2 Packets of streaky bacon or pancetta
* Parmesan or hard cheese
*  Lemon-infused olive oil (you can also use regular olive oil) 
*  1 Lemon 
*  Basil leaves for garnish

Method: 
Preheat your oven to 250°C. Wash your asparagus spears in cold water and trim the ends. Pat the asparagus dry with kitchen towel, then season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil. 

Wrap a slice of streaky bacon or pancetta around each asparagus spear. Start at the bottom and work your way up. 

Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top. Next, put the bacon-wrapped asparagus spears on the wire rack. 

Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. Remove from the oven. Place on a serving plate and shave over parmesan cheese. Then drizzle with the olive oil and serve with lemon wedges. Accompany with chilled Garden Route Wines Sauvignon Blanc for the perfect pairing.☀️🍴🍷👌🏼

07/11/2023

I am absolutely loving my activewear from Just Breethe, especially the leggings! They are great for everything from running and yoga, to out & about for a coffee catch-up. The fit is perfect, they are extremely comfortable and above all they look great!🏃‍♀️🧘‍♀️

The T-shirt also fits so well and the fabric is super soft. While I wear mine mainly for exercising you could easily wear it with a pair of jeans or shorts.

Last but not least the socks are fantastic, I am super fussy when it comes to socks especially for running. The socks have padding, ventilation and support in all the right places. In addition they have seamless toes, and are fitted for left and right feet.

Follow the link in my bio to find out more about the brand and their range of products.

06/11/2023

Happy place ❤️happy face 😊Dellcious pizza and fantastic wine at my ones of my favourites - the Stellenzicht Wine Pod in Stellenbosch! ☀️🍷🍕

If you have yet to visit, it is definitely a must! The wine pod is ideal for relaxing and unwinding, with the majestic Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains as a backdrop. Not to forget some of the best pizza I have eaten, delicious cheese boards, amazing wine & excellent service👌🏼🍷🍕

26/10/2023

Sushi in the Winelands 🍣 🍷

Did you know that GlenWood Vineyards in Franschhoek has a gourmet sushi offering?

Not only is the sushi world-class, but when combined with GlenWood’s excellent wines and the beautiful location, it makes for a gourmet experience to remember!

GlenWood’s Master Sushi Chef, Lungani Ntuli, has been a chef for twenty years, and during this time, he was mentored by the celebrated chef Arata Koga. Koga was one of the first Japanese chefs to introduce sushi to South Africa.

The sushi is incredible, some of the best I have tasted! Highlights include The Crunch Bomb Roll, with prawn tempura and avo on the inside, topped with fresh, seared Tuna, a sweet soy sauce and tempura crumbs, and The Hot Night Roll, with spiced Tuna on the inside, topped with panko shrimp and spicy, sweet chilli mayo.

If you love eating fantastic sushi and drinking award-winning local wine, this is definitely an experience not to be missed.

Pippa Pringle

15/10/2023

🎶Feels like summer ☀️🍷🍣

It definitely feels like summer is finely here! It is the perfect weather for delicious sushi and a chilled glass of vino! Have you tried the Lighthearted Collection from ? The low-alcohol range is ideal for summer sipping☀️🍷🥂🍣

14/10/2023

Cheers to 🍷✨

What will you be sipping today to celebrate?

28/09/2023

I love the new elegant look of the Perdeberg Cellar’s Classic Collection! The sleek new design preserves the traditional feel while giving an air of sophistication and high quality at an affordable price. 🍷
 
Keeping within the look and feel of the contemporary appearance, the changes include a refreshed screwcap colour option and an updated label design, which incorporates the cellar’s heritage and creates the impression of minimalistic warmth. 

The Perdeberg Classic Collection includes a Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Shiraz. Featured here are the Chenin Blanc and Merlot. 🍷 

Food pairing suggestion:
Mushroom Bruschetta paired with the Classic Collection Melot.

Ingredients:
1 Punnet brown mushrooms
3 Cloves garlic
A good few sprigs of fresh thyme
1 Tbs butter
½ cup of cream
Freshly ground black pepper & sea salt
1 Baguette
Grated parmesan (optional)

Method:
Roughly Chop mushrooms into small chunks and brown in a hot, pre-heated pan. Add the butter & garlic, and turn down the heat. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Add in the fresh thyme & let the flavours infuse. Finish off with a splash of cream, let simmer for a few minutes and then turn off the heat. Cut the baguette into inch-thick slices and drizzle with olive oil. Place on a tray and toast both sides in the oven. Spread the mushroom ragu on the warm toasted bread, sprinkle with parmesan and serve with a glass of the Perdeberg Merlot.

Ranging in price from R75 to R80 per bottle, the new-look classic Perdeberg Cellar wines are available directly from the Tasting Room, online or at selected liquor outlets nationwide.


24/09/2023

Slow-roasted Lamb with Middelvlei Free-run Pinotage 🥘 🍷

This slow-roasted lamb recipe ensures fall-off-the-bone lamb with a rich, luxurious gravy. It is utterly delicious - if there is any leftover lamb, I use it to make a heavenly lamb ragu pasta. 

The wine: The Free-Run Pinotage, a proudly South African varietal, is a medium-bodied wine with prominent sweet fruit flavours and creamy vanilla tones.

Ingredients:
* 1 Lamb Shoulder or Leg 
* 2 Red onions
* 5 Garlic cloves
* 4 Carrots
* 2 Sticks of celery
* olive oil
* ½ Fresh rosemary
* 3 Bay leaves
* ½ Fresh thyme
* 1 Tin plum tomatoes
* 250ml Red wine
* 250ml Lamb or beef stock

Method:
Preheat the oven to 200ºC. Peel and quarter the red onions and slice the garlic cloves into slithers. Peel and chop the carrots and celery.

Using a sharp knife, trim any excess fat from the lamb. Next, make small incisions all over the lamb, then poke rosemary sprigs and sliced garlic into each incision. Season with salt and pepper. Add the remaining garlic cloves, onions, carrots, and celery to a roasting tray. Add the remaining herbs. Pour in the tinned tomatoes, wine, and stock. Cover the roasting tray with two layers of foil and place in the oven. Turn down the temperature to 170ºC. Cook for 3½ to 4 hours or until the lamb is soft, sticky, and falling off the bone.

I serve the slow-roasted Lamb with Couscous, a Beetroot, Greenbean and Feta Salad, and Potato Wedges. Enjoy with a glass or two of Middelvlei Free-Run Pinotage.

24/09/2023

Slow-roasted Lamb with Middelvlei Free-run Pinotage 🥘 🍷

This slow-roasted lamb, part of my Heritage Day menu, is fall-off-the-bone tender, with a rich, luxurious gravy. It is utterly delicious - if there is any leftover lamb, I use it to make a heavenly lamb ragu pasta.👌🏼

The wine: The Free-Run Pinotage, a proudly South African varietal, is a medium-bodied wine with prominent sweet fruit flavours and creamy vanilla tones.

Ingredients:
* 1 Lamb Shoulder or Leg 
* 2 Red onions
* 4 Garlic cloves
* 4 Carrots
* 2 Sticks of celery
* olive oil
* ½ Fresh rosemary
* 3 Bay leaves
* ½ Fresh thyme
* 1 Tin plum tomatoes
* 250ml Red wine
* 250ml Lamb or beef stock

Method:
Preheat the oven to 200ºC. Peel and quarter the red onions and slice the garlic cloves into slithers. Peel and chop the carrots and celery.

Using a sharp knife, trim any excess fat from the lamb. Next, make small incisions all over the lamb, then poke rosemary sprigs and sliced garlic into each incision. Season with salt and pepper. Add the remaining garlic cloves, onions, carrots, and celery to a roasting tray. Add the remaining herbs. Pour in the tinned tomatoes, wine, and stock. Cover the roasting tray with two layers of foil and place in the oven. Turn down the temperature to 170ºC. Cook for 3½ to 4 hours or until the lamb is soft, sticky, and falling off the bone.

I serve the slow-roasted Lamb with Couscous, a Beetroot, Greenbean and Feta Salad, and Potato Wedges. Enjoy with a glass or two of Middelvlei Free-Run Pinotage.

23/09/2023

Lemon & Garlic Braaied Prawns, paired with Middelvlei Unoaked Chardonnay. 🍤 🍷

Yesterday I shared my Heritage-inspired Menu, this is the recipe for the Lemon & Garlic Braaied Prawns.

The wine: The Unoaked Chardonnay features tropical fruit notes with a subtle spice undertone and a luscious combination of peach and guava flavours that enhance the overall fruitiness.

Braaied Lemon & Garlic Prawns
Ingredients 
800g Queen Prawns, deveined and deshelled
Willowcreek Garlic Olive Oil
3 Lemons, cut into thick slices
50g Fresh Coriander, chopped
Funky Ouma Chilli Salt
Black Pepper

Method 
* Remove the head, deshell the prawns and remove the intestinal tract. 
* Portion 3 to 4 prawns per skewer, season, drizzle with garlic olive oil, and squeeze over lemon juice. Lastly, sprinkle with the chopped coriander and allow to marinade for an hour,
* Braai the prawns on medium to high heat. They cook quickly - approximately 2 minutes on either side. While the prawns cook, place the lemons on the braai until charred and softened. 
* Serve with the prawns with the braaied lemons, garlic butter or a dipping sauce of your choice and a glass of chilled Middelvlei Unoaked Chardonnay.

 

24/07/2023

Delicious Winter Warmers 🔥

Introducing my delicious Winter Warmer Recipes with Morgenster Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Featuring a Tomato Soup with parmesan toasties and a Spicy Lamb Curry with basmati rice, garlic rotis, and tomato and onion salad. 🔥🍅🌶️🍷

Enjoy the goodness of EVOO while indulging in comforting and flavourful dishes.

🍅 Starters
There is nothing quite like a bowl of tomato soup on a chilly winter's evening. When served with Morgenster Estate EVOO infused with basil, as well as decadent Parmesan Toasties, this classic comfort dish is elevated to new heights! https://www.inspiredlivingsa.co.za/2016/02/tomato-soup-parmesan-toasties/the-celebration-of-all-things-delicious

🌶 Mains
My Spicy Lamb Curry served with basmati rice, rotis brushed with Morgenster EVOO infused with garlic, and refreshing tomato and onion salad, is so delicious! The Morgenster LRV Red Wine Blend, with its bold and rich flavours, perfectly complements the spicy lamb curry, enhancing the tender lamb's richness. At the same time, its velvety texture adds a smooth and indulgent element to the dish. https://www.inspiredlivingsa.co.za/2012/07/lamb-rogan-josh-curry/the-celebration-of-all-things-delicious 🌶️🔥🍷

These Winter Warmers are perfect for a date night at home and offer a symphony of flavours to warm your soul on a cold winter's day. 🔥

What are your favourite winter recipes?

Pippa Pringle

17/07/2023

Calling all wine lovers - it is time for Wine Town Stellenbosch 2023!

This epic celebration of wine, food, and hospitality is not to be missed! 🍷🥘

Wine Town Stellenbosch will take place from Tuesday, the 1st of August, until Sunday 6th, of August, with a diverse range of events, including farm walks, culinary creations, and expert-led tastings designed to captivate every wine enthusiast. Immerse yourself and engage with passionate winemakers who have elevated Stellenbosch to its globally renowned status, showcasing exceptional quality cultivars.

This is the perfect occasion for foodies and wine lovers to enjoy excellent cuisine, paired with remarkable wine. The highly anticipated grand finale, the Stellenbosch Wine Festival, takes place over two days, 4th and 5th August, at the historic Stellenbosch Town Hall. From Friday, between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM, to Saturday, between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM, guests can enjoy over two hundred exceptional wines, complemented by gourmet dishes crafted by acclaimed chef Bertus Basson.

Wine Town Stellenbosch will feature wines from prominent wineries, including Spier Wine Farm, Ernie Els Wine, Beyerskloof, and Kaapzicht, joined by newcomers Dorp St Wines and Compagniesdrift. Tickets are available via the Wine Town website (link in my bio), starting from R350 per person.