Kamini Pather celebrates culinary heritage in her new cookbook ‘All Dahl’d Up’

Kamini Pather’s rise to prominence is as multifaceted as her culinary creations.

Kamini Pather’s rise to prominence is as multifaceted as her culinary creations.

Image by: Matt Muller

Published Mar 27, 2025

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Chef Kamini Pather, known for capturing the hearts of South African audiences after winning "MasterChef South Africa" in 2013, is back with an exciting new cookbook, “All Dahl’d Up”. 

A delightful celebration of flavours that intertwines cultural heritage with contemporary cuisine, this collection offers home cooks an enticing glimpse into her vibrant world. 

Pather’s rise to prominence is as multifaceted as her culinary creations. With a career spanning corporate presentations, sports events, and television show hosting, she has captivated audiences with her innate ability to blend storytelling, recipes, and gastronomic inspiration.

Her cooking act draws on her "MasterChef" experience alongside the rich tapestry of her travels. 

As she reflects on her upbringing in 1990s SA, Pather recounts the unique perspectives of being one of the few people of colour in her school. “I remember the dining tables at home versus those of my friends,” she reminisces, highlighting how her mother’s fusion lunchboxes bridged various worlds.

These experiences shaped her understanding of food as an expression of identity, a theme that resonates strongly throughout her new cookbook. 

“I needed to tell my story through the plate,” Pather shares with “Independent Media Lifestyle" when asked about her motivation for writing cookbooks. Her latest work represents not just a compilation of dishes, but also a heartfelt narrative enriched by her family's culinary legacy.

Pather’s zest for life is equally embodied in her love for running. This athletic passion complements her culinary pursuits and highlights her dedication to holistic well-being. 

As she invites readers to explore the numerous flavours and stories within “All Dahl’d Up", Pather continues to demonstrate that the journey of food is a celebration of both heritage and modernity. 

∎ “All Dahl’d Up” is now available for purchase, promising to enrich the tables of readers with its exquisite blend of tradition and innovation.