Hosted by chef Denise Cowburn-Levy (former international model and production guru), I was warmly welcomed into her beautiful private home in Fresnaye for an interactive cooking experience.

Denise’s career involved lots of international travel and this exposure to exotic cuisines developed her own love for cooking. Each Ginger & Lime evening is dedicated to a group of guests creating, socialising and learning new culinary skills.

cooking class
An immersive cooking class, perfect for groups who are visiting Cape Town
chef Denise Cowburn-Levy
Chef Denise Cowburn-Levy

The small classes are currently hosted at Denise’s home in her modern kitchen – the heart of the house – where her friends and family gather regularly. I immediately felt enveloped in the warm, casual and friendly atmosphere when I stepped inside.

With her cooking classes growing in popularity, she is expecting to move to larger and more industrial premises soon.

cooking class
Charlotte (third from right) and the other guests enjoying their class

Splitting into smaller teams of food bloggers, journalists and magazine editors, we learnt to cook exotic winter-warming curries. From fish, chicken to the more unusual egg curry. Denise’s team is enthusiastic and eager to encourage guests to get stuck in; to crush garlic, chop herbs and fry the fragrant spices lightly.

Those who don’t enjoy the nitty-gritty of preparation, can simply chat and relax with a glass of wine and savour the wonderful, spicy aromas. Every recipe step is clearly explained, and guests can take the recipes home with them to spoil their loved ones!

Once the steam had dissipated, oven timers had rung, and gas burners turned down, everyone’s glasses were refilled and guests moved to the magnificent dining room.

The dining room table was set up elegantly for 22 people. It encouraged lively chatter as everyone helped themselves to the amazing curries that we’d created. Rice was offered as an accompaniment and Cathy Steed, our amazing hostess, kept our glasses topped up, ensuring everyone was comfortable and well fed.

We not only left with full bellies but also with new friendships… and hopefully a few culinary skills!

Ginger & Lime Corporate Bookings

We highly recommend Ginger & Lime’s cooking classes – a fun, interactive group activity!

Bespoke culinary events can include corporate team building, special celebrations, Master Chef events, or “Taste of the Cape” evenings. The latter is a gourmet braai or Cape Malay themed dinner that’s perfect for international guests.

Denise also regularly hosts local celebrity chefs to join her evenings.

Have a look at the Ginger & Lime website or just contact us directly.