Waterblommetjie season in the Boland

A CELEBRATION OF WATERBLOMMETJIES
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday 7 September.

Rhebokskloof cellar master Rolanie Lotz (left) with Windmeul Kelder winemaker Jenna Higgins.

Windmeul Kelder and Rhebokskloof Estate outside Paarl will host a fun-filled day of festivities suitable for the whole family.

The waterblommetjie (also known as Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos, Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae) is an indigenous delicacy that is only found in the Boland area of the Western Cape. It is only harvested for a short period each year, which makes it a sought-after ingredient. Used in heritage foods such as the traditional waterblommetjiebredie (stew), the KhoiKhoi used it for medicinal purposes and is packed with vitamins.

Waterblom pickers (left to right) Samantha September, Monique Saulse and Nichole Saulse.

CULINARY DELIGHTS

On the festival day, waterblommetjies will be featured in both the traditional and highly innovative ways. Windmeul will serve the traditional stew and fresh waterblommetjies will be available from the fresh produce vendor at the famous farmers’ market. Festival goers can also watch the experts in action during the highly competitive potjiekos competition. The Plaaskombuis will be serving breakfast and fabulous homemade stews and dishes.

Rhebokskloof Estate has pulled out all the stops with cellar master Rolanie Lotz collaboration with their chef to create some amazing offerings. Five award-winning wines are teamed up with a variety of waterblommetjie-infused dishes. From waterblommetjie teriyaki sushi to fritters, smoked snoek tarts, curried pork bon bons or braised beef spring rolls, all five tasting portions feature waterblommetjies in some way. Prepare your senses for a taste explosion, when paired with the exquisite estate wines.

Book your wine tasting and pairing slot from 09:30. There are only four sessions available and limited seats for each tasting. The tasting cost R350 per person. Visit dineplan.co.za for the slots and book now!

Potjiekos ingredients for Windmeul potjiekos competition

For a more extensive gourmet experience, a delectable four-course menu showcases this local delicacy in several novel ways. Each course has been perfectly paired with one of the exceptional estate wines. The first course features togarashi tuna with a crispy tempura-battered waterblommetjie flower for a delightful fusion of spicy and crunchy textures. This is paired with the Rhebokskloof Estate 2022 Chardonnay. The second course of braised and roasted pork belly is served with silky smooth celeriac puree, waterblommetjie ‘bubble and squeak’, topped with a zesty gooseberry chutney and is paired with the Rhebokskloof Estate 2020 Shiraz. The traditional waterblommetjie and lamb bredie (stew) makes its appearance for the third course complemented by the exquisite Rhebokskloof Estate 2020 The Rhebok. The grand finale is a dark chocolate tart with candied waterblommetjie ice cream. The Rhebokskloof Estate's Flatrock Sparkle ends the final course on a high note.

Indulge in these exquisite dishes crafted especially for the Waterblommetjie Festival. Book your table now for a culinary experience like no other. Bookings are essential. Tickets cost R550 per person. Bookings are essential. https://www.rhebokskloof.co.za/.../waterblommetjies-event/

Also try their waterblommetjie ice cream and wood-fired pizzas – obviously, there is one featuring waterblommetjies as well!

Rhebokskloof pairing menu

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES

Outdoor enthusiasts can also get in some action before sampling the great food and wines at the Waterblommetjie Festival. The Run the Vines trail run will take place at Windmeul Kelder. Distances include a 3km for juniors, 5km, 10km and 17km with starting times between 08h00 and 08h45. Entry fees range between R80 and R180 depending on the distances and can be done online. All finishers receive medals. Register here.

Keen mountainbikers can head to Rhebokskloof Estate for some fun outrides with Paarl Trails from 09:00. There will be an easy 10km MTB Outride suitable for the kids, a 20km Outride and a 30km E-MTB Outride. Each ride will have a ride leader as well as a sweeper to assist and guide the riders. If you don’t have your bike with you, there will be bike and E-Bike rentals on offer. Book here.

Windmeul will serve up a waterblommetjie treat on Saturday, 7 September

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT

At Windmeul Kelder Wynand Windpomp and Vosloo Bekker will perform live in alternating sets from 10:00 - 16:00 to keep the festive vibes going. Kids can look forward to a special treat with face painting and balloon twisting between 10h00 and 13h00 at Windmeul.

Rhebokskloof Estate will continue the festive atmosphere with background music throughout the days. While parents sip some awesome wines and savour amazing waterblommetjie dishes, kids can come out to play at both venues. Windmeul Kelder has a dedicated play area. Kids can enjoy the sprawling lawns at Rhebokskloof Estate as well as a special playground area under the trees.

Waterblom pizza at Rhebokskloof

WINNING WINES

This is a perfect time to stock up your wine cellar with wine specials while stocks last. Taste and purchase your favourite wines ranging from Windmeul’s highly acclaimed Chenin Blancs to Rhebokskloof multi-award-winning Shiraz. There is a wine for every palate.

ENTRY FEE – DONATION TO FESTIVAL CHARITY

Free entry to the venues can be secured with the donation of one tin of canned food per person. The cans will go to the official festival charity – Athlone House of Strength, a shelter for abused women and children in Paarl.

For more information, visit www.waterblommetjiefees.com or Waterblommetjiefees on Instagram and Facebook.

Issued by: PERIDOT COMMUNICATIONS

Pictures: SUPPLIED