Classic dishes are easy to pair with wine, but what about sosaties and vetkoek? We share our favourite wine-paired recipes, from Asian to Moroccan-inspired dishes. Whether hosting a ‘bougie’ braai or a romantic date night, there’s something for every occasion. Pour a glass and tuck in!
Savoury Recipes with Wine
From seafood starters to meaty mains, these dishes are ideal for dinner dates and parties.
Tartiflette Savoyarde
Fluffy potatoes baked in a creamy sauce, laden with smoky pork lardons and bubbling hot Camembert cheese. It doesn’t get more heavenly than this French-inspired dish!
Pairing suggestion: Leopard’s Leap Culinaria Grand Vin; rich berry and oaked flavours of this Bordeaux-style blend beautifully contrast the creaminess of this dish.
Recipe for Tartiflette Savoyarde
Smoked Trout Chowder
The wine’s depth and the chowder’s creamy texture make for the perfect serve for an intimate dinner party with friends. For a burst of acidity, top the chowder with capers and enjoy.
Pairing suggestion: La Motte Syrah. With its natural fruitiness and delicate spice, this wine cuts through the richness of the chowder and enhances its smoky undertones.
Recipe for Smoked Trout Chowder
Lamb Shank Potjie Pies
This take on potjie celebrates homegrown flavours in single servings. The lamb shanks are slow-cooked in a red wine and rosemary-infused gravy. Delicious!
Pairing suggestion: Ernie Els Big Easy Red Blend. The complex blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault and Viognier make this a truly unforgettable wine.
Recipe for Lamb Shank Potjie Pies
Pork Chops Au Poivre
Impress dinner guests with this homely yet elegant dish. Succulent chops on a bed of velvety, peppery sauce – Au Poivre is the unmistakable flavour of French cuisine.
Pairing suggestion: Leopard’s Leap Culinaria Pinot Noir; a combination of Old World Burgundy and New World Pinot Noir makes this wine the perfect partner.
Recipe for Pork Chops Au Poivre
Baked Camembert with Figs, Hot Honey & Nuts
This camembert dish is the perfect dinner party starter; bake ’til gooey, top with roasted figs, crunchy nuts and hot honey drizzle and enjoy.
Pairing suggestion: Graham Beck Ultra Brut; the lemon zest and buttery brioche notes complement the creamy Camembert and caramelised, spiced nuts.
Recipe for Baked Camembert with Roasted Figs, Hot Honey & Caramelised Spiced Nuts
Biltong, Onion & Blue Cheese Tartlets
Inspired by the quintessential South African snack, biltong, these tartlets are the ultimate party starter. Serve with Cab Sauv for a divine pairing.
Pairing suggestion: Ernie Els Big Easy Cabernet Sauvignon; fragrant aromas of wild rosemary, leafy herbs and spring plums make this delectable wine the ideal match.
Recipe for Biltong, Caramelised Onion & Blue Cheese Tartlets
Cacio e Pepe
This Roman classic delivers mouthfuls of flavour with only a handful of ingredients. Uncomplicated and delicious, it’s bound to become a midweek favourite.
Pairing suggestion: Leopard’s Leap Culinaria Pinot Noir; red and darker fruit notes present on the nose, while the palate is layered and complex with a lengthy acidity.
Pumpkin & Lentil Coconut Curry
If you can’t decide between curry or soup, settle your cravings with this wholesome and hearty plant-based curry. It’s incredibly creamy and comes together in a hurry.
Pairing suggestion: Leopard’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon. The mixed berry notes meet the mellow heat of the curry, while cinnamon spices deepen its flavour, creating an elegant pairing.
Recipe for Pumpkin & Lentil Coconut Curry
Mushroom Galettes
These French-inspired Mushroom Galettes are a delightful start to any meal, and offer savoury, earthy flavours that pair wonderfully with Syrah or Viognier.
Pairing suggestion: Pierneef Syrah Viognier; the Syrah provides structure and spice, while the Viognier adds floral notes and a touch of elegance.
Roast Beef French Dip Sandwich
Indulge in comfort food with a sophisticated twist. Drenched in jus and filled with roast beef, this gourmet delight pairs exceptionally well with a full-bodied Syrah.
Pairing suggestion: La Motte Syrah; the hearty flavours of this French dip sandwich harmonise beautifully with the subtle spice and red berry notes of this Syrah.
Recipe for Roast Beef French Dip Sandwich
Yellowtail Fish Tacos with Green Apple Slaw
These yellowtail fish tacos are great for social gatherings. Enjoy a taco in one hand and a glass of Chenin Blanc in the other.
Pairing suggestion: Ernie Els – Big Easy Chenin Blanc. Generously fruited, the palate radiates with ripe mango, pineapple glacé, green pears and licks of lime.
Recipe for Yellowtail Fish Tacos with Green Apple Slaw
Méthode Cap Classique Mussel Pot
These are not your average mussels; the Cap Classique adds a dash of sophistication and incredible flavour. Enjoy with toasted sourdough and savour every bite.
Pairing suggestion: Graham Beck Ultra Brut. The creamy texture, fine mousse and the lively acidity make it a brilliant pairing.
Recipe for Méthode Cap Classique Mussel Pot
Sweet & Sticky Pork Belly Bao
Treat friends to bao and bubbles. The star anise, hoisin flavours and rich pork belly are absolutely divine with pickled carrots, red onion and coriander.
Pairing suggestion: Made entirely of Chardonnay, the brioche, fresh citrus and spice notes of Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs pair well with this dish.
Recipe for Sweet & Sticky Pork Belly Bao
Tiger Prawns with Mango Salsa
Tiger Prawns are marinated in olive oil, smoky paprika and garlic, then braaied to perfection and drizzled with a zesty lime-infused butter. Serve with mango salsa and Sauvignon Blanc.
Pairing suggestion: Klein Constantia Sauvignon Blanc 2022. The intense tropical fruit flavours are ideal for the smoky prawns and spicy mango salsa.
Recipe for Tiger Prawns with Mango Salsa
3 Cheese Pap Tart
Layers of relish, buttery pap and a delicious trifecta of mozzarella, cheddar and Parmesan come together in this moreish tart that’s perfect for your weekend braai.
Pairing suggestion: Durbanville Hills Chenin Blanc; the sweet spice notes complement the tomato and the acidity cuts through the rich pap and cheese.
Curried Fish & Chips with Raita-style Tartar
We’ve given this local favourite a twist by seasoning the hake fillet batter with aromatic Malay curry spices, infusing more flavour into this simple yet satisfying seafood dish.
Pairing suggestion: Durbanville Hills Sauvignon Blanc; tropical flavours of passion fruit and grapefruit pair deliciously with this meal.
Recipe for Curried Fish & Chips with Raita-style Tartar Sauce
Lamb Ragù with Gnocchi & Salsa Verde
Tender lamb with a bouquet of fresh rosemary and bay leaves – the key to making this dish is allowing the flavours to develop and, of course, adding a dash of red wine.
Pairing suggestion: You’ll love the prominent notes of ripe red berries and cinnamon spice of Durbanville Hills Collectors Reserve Pinotage.
Recipe for Slow Cooked Lamb Ragù with Gnocchi & Salsa Verde
Boerewors Bobotie
We’ve combined two of our favourite local dishes – boerewors and bobotie. Serve this comforting dish with a side of yellow rice at Sunday family lunch.
Pairing suggestion: The sweet spice aromas of Durbanville Hills Merlot complement this dish.
Asian Tuna Fish Cakes with Miso Mayo
This is not your average fish cake – the Chinese five-spice, Szechuan pepper and fennel notes take it to the next level. Savour it with a glass of Chardonnay/Pinot Noir for a satisfying lunch.
Pairing suggestion: Versatile and refreshing, Leopard’s Leap 2022 Chardonnay Pinot Noir pairs well with these fishcakes. The combination of citrus and red-fruit flavours is divine.
Recipe for Asian Tuna Fish Cakes with Miso Mayo
Braaied Veggie Pizza
A crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for long weekend casual feasting. Enjoy with a glass or two of Sauvignon Blanc.
Pairing suggestion: The artichoke, courgette and basil pesto are enhanced by the herbal notes and well-balanced acidity of Klein Constantia Sauvignon Blanc.
Recipe for Braaied Veggie Pizza
Chicken Kebabs with Labneh & Green Salad
Elevate your braai with the ultimate kebabs. Add another layer of flavour and plate it up with some labneh, a vibrant salad and your favourite white wine for a tasty weekend feast.
Pairing suggestion: Complete braai mains with a pairing of La Motte Rosé Vin de Joie.
Recipe for Braaied Chicken Kebabs with Labneh & Green Salad
Muhammara Dip with Sesame Lavash Crackers
This Middle Eastern dip is ideal for your mezze spread. The blend of roasted red peppers, walnuts and spices is a pure delight. Serve it with Rosé for a burst of flavour.
Pairing suggestion: Balanced and delicate, La Motte Rosé Vin de Joie is the perfect choice for social lunches and celebrating everyday or special occasions.
Recipe for Muhammara Dip with Sesame Lavash Crackers
Puff Pastry Salmon Tart with Miso Dressing
Entertaining a crowd? This puff pastry salmon tart is the easiest and most delicious way to impress guests. Serve a refreshing wine, and you’ve got yourself a stunning pairing.
Pairing suggestion: Delicate salmon pairs perfectly with La Motte Rosé Vin de Joie.
Recipe for Puff Pastry Salmon Tart with Grilled Asparagus
Seared Tuna Salad with Miso Dressing
There’s nothing better than seared tuna, a bit of miso and fresh greens with a squeeze of lime to wake up your palate. Ideal for light lunch or a date night dinner.
Pairing suggestion: Umami flavours in this dish pair best with La Motte Rosé Vin de Joie.
Recipe for Seared Tuna Salad with Miso Dressing
Thai Green Vegetable Curry with Lentils
Meet your new favourite weeknight dish. It’s fragrant, filling, creamy and packed with flavour. Serve with a classic, easy-drinking red wine and savour the sauce.
Pairing suggestion: Temper the heat from the red chilli in this Thai Green Curry with Leopard’s Leap Natura De-alcoholised Classic Red. Even teetotallers will enjoy this pairing.
Recipe for Thai Green Vegetable Curry with Lentils
Parmigiana di Melanzane
A classic Italian dish with a legume twist. Topped with dollops of basil pesto and crunchy chickpeas, you’re bound to keep coming back for more! Perfect for family dinners.
Pairing suggestion: We love the delicious blend of oak-underpinned spices of Leopard’s Leap Pardus for this crowd-pleasing dish.
Recipe for Parmigiana di Melanzane
Smoked Fish Pie
Melt-in-mouth snoek in a creamy and velvety sauce, all topped off with golden puff pastry rounds. Enjoy with a Chenin Blanc – the subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with the salty snoek.
Pairing suggestion: The smoky snoek and creamy flavours in this dish are lifted by the spiced notes of Nederburg – The Anchorman Old Vine Chenin Blanc.
Beef Meatball Tomato Bredie
Craving something comforting? Beef meatballs on a bed of herby pap and tomato bredie should do the trick. Top with Parmesan and pair this hearty dish with a spicy Rhône-style blend.
Pairing suggestion: Nederburg – The Motorcycle Marvel Rhone Blend – this blend of Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre is underpinned by sweet spice and berry flavours.
Recipe for Beef Meatball Tomato Bredie
Creamy Malay Chicken Curry Pie
Flavours of cumin, garam masala and coconut cream come together in this creamy Malay-inspired Chicken Curry Pie. The dried apricot adds a nice touch.
Pairing suggestion: Enjoy this comforting dish with La Motte Millennium 2019. This blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc is delicious.
Recipe for Creamy Malay Chicken Curry Pie
Moroccan-spiced Lamb Mince Phyllo Pie with Dried Fruit Compote
We’ve given this lamb pie a Moroccan twist with fragrant spices and sultanas. Serve with Syrah Viognier and toasted almonds for a nutty crunch.
Pairing suggestion: 2018 Pierneef Syrah Viognier; the spiced Syrah enhances the Moroccan flavours, while the Viognier balances the dried fruit compote element.
Recipe for Moroccan-spiced Lamb Mince Phyllo Pie with Dried Fruit Compote
Dessert Recipes with Wine
What’s dessert without a tot of wine?
Poached Pears with Butterscotch & Praline
A classic dessert infused with local flavour. Treat guests to these divine pears poached in rooibos tea, vanilla and Klein Constantia Vin de Constance.
Pairing suggestion: Klein Constantia – Vin de Constance; oak spice and ginger notes complement the poached pears, while the citrus blossom and orange zest notes contrast the butterscotch sauce.
Recipe for Vin de Constance Poached Pears with Butterscotch Sauce & Nut Praline
Brioche Tartines with Whipped Cheese & Plum Jam
Everything you love about a cheeseboard on brioche toast. The delectable sweet and tart notes balance the complex flavours of Vin de Constance.
Pairing suggestion: Klein Constantia – Vin de Constance; delicately perfumed aromas of lemon curd and white peach notes make for a scintillating pairing.
Recipe for Brioche Tartines with Whipped Cheese & Plum Jam
Amagwinya with Chocolate Crème Pât & Cherries
A quintessential South African dessert with a Parisian twist. Fill your ‘gwinyas (vetkoek) with chocolaty goodness and a drizzle of cherry sauce for the ultimate indulgence.
Pairing suggestion: Nederburg – The Brew Master. The Black Forest flavours and hints of vanilla in this Bordeaux-style blend are ideal for this decadent dessert.
Recipe for Amagwinya with Chocolate Crème Pâtissière & Cherries
White Choc Mousse with Salted Caramel Popcorn
A treat for the senses – the satisfying contrast of white chocolate mousse and crunchy salted caramel is sensational. Chardonnay is the perfect complement to this inviting dessert.
Pairing suggestion: La Motte’s 2020 Chardonnay offsets the sweeter notes in this delightful mousse.
Recipe for White Chocolate Mousse with Salted Caramel Popcorn
Frosé Raspberry Granita with Berries & Ice Cream
You can have your Rosé and eat it too! Serve your guests the ultimate summer dessert, filled with refreshing granita, strawberries and vanilla ice cream.
Pairing suggestion: Watermelon, raspberry coulis and pomegranate notes of De Grendel Rosé complement the flavours in this refreshing frosé.
Recipe for Frosé Raspberry Granita with Strawberries & Vanilla Ice Cream
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches
These whimsical Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches are every kid’s dream, but because we’re all adults, you get to enjoy it with a glass of Brut Cap Classique.
Pairing suggestion: The fresh citrus notes of De Grendel Cap Classique Brut pair gorgeously with these Ice Cream Sandwiches.
Recipe for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches
Hosting a party? Enjoy these wine & cheese-paired recipes.
