Waterblommetjiebredie

This, my friend, is Waterblommetjiebredie.

In spring, when the waterblommetjies grow abundantly on dams or bodies of water, this dish brings warm smiles to the residents of the Western Cape, particularly in the Boland. Not only is the waterblommetjie a harbinger of spring but it also means it is waterblommetjiebredie time.

Waterblommetjies are water hawthorns that are endemic to the Boland and surrounding areas. The bredie is a stew traditionally made with braised lamb and onion (although Vince makes it for me with hake.)

waterblommetjies at Babylonstoren

We were given a taste by Gundula, our garden tour guide at Babylonstoren. It tastes slightly spicy and went very well with this sorrel which has a citrusy taste.

In addition to being on the spring menu at Babel, the farm to fork restaurant on the grounds of Babylonstoren, there were some other products available in the gift shop that feature the waterblommetjie. Like candles and soap. One of each please.