New cookbook to cater for new tourist markets

The cookbook sets out the specific dietary requirements of vegetarians, vegans and Jains, gives lists of food items that each group may and may not eat, gives a brief explanation of the culture that informs the dietary needs of these tourists, and gives a broad selection of recipes that will keep vegetarian, vegan and Jain visitors happy and well-fed as they explore South Africa.

The book also includes 50 easy to prepare meals using fresh ingredients that are readily available locally. Moreover, it is a collection of recipes by some of South Africa's chefs and each recipe offers a way to keep non-meat eaters delighted with the flavours, textures and variety that South Africa offers.

Needs of tourists must be understood

South African Tourism chief executive officer, Thulani Nzima, said South Africa's tourism industry reached record heights in 2011. "But what we saw in 2011 was the importance of emerging markets and the increasing numbers of tourists visiting us from countries such as India, China and Brazil. From India alone, we welcomed 90 367 tourists in 2011 - 26.2% more than in 2010."

Nzima said it was critical for South African Tourism to understand the needs of these tourists, so that the organisation could better work with the tourism industry to ensure they were catered for.

"We encourage South Africa's hospitality industry to ensure they get a copy of the book, to add the various recipes to their menus, and educate and equip themselves to cater in inimitable South African fashion to travellers from our new emerging markets," said Nzima.

Guide to Vegetarian, Vegan and Jain Dining in South Africa will be made available extensively to South Africa's hospitality industry and will also be distributed to 6 000 chefs through the South African Chefs Association.