The comfort of rainy days

Winter has brought some welcome rain. It is frustrating at times, because we are prevented from working in the garden. However, the rain allows time for reflection on what still needs to be done for the coming season.

With the garden completely cleaned, clipped and cultivated, we have time to research and plan new projects that will enhance the authentic lifestyle that is Towerwater.

The pruning of the rose garden brought another comfort in the form of a glorious mixed bunch of roses. The luxurious gift from the garden brightened up the Voorkamer and filled the room with a soft hint of summer rose fragrance.

Outside it was winter but inside it was summer.

The rain falling on the roof over the library has become the sound-track to reading while in the big brown library chair. The books are like old friends sharing their knowledge. The Africana book collection is an important part of recreating the authenticity of Towerwater. The information in the collection on traditional architecture, furniture, skills, gardening, crafts, and viticulture and food preparation is invaluable.

Reflecting on the elements of a traditional lifestyle at Towerwater, steeped in traditional skills, we have discovered that there is still information that needs to be recorded. We have found that there is still a need for research and new thought that should be recorded to enhance and support existing information.

On rainy days I embark on armchair travels. I enjoy the travel and cookbooks that are my one weakness. I love cookbooks that cater for the history of traditional dishes of foreign countries. However, I am always drawn back to the trusty old Africana cookbooks for local recipes. Currently, I am reviewing venison recipes that will refresh my skills for preparing the springbok in the fridge.

Springbok neck marinated in port and quince jelly

I discovered a recipe for springbok neck served with quince jelly. With the jars of quince jelly in the larder made in the Towerwater kitchen from our own fruit just begging to be used, I decided to use the recipe at hand.

Oven roasted Springbok neck

The comforting aroma of springbok neck roasting in the oven on a cold rainy winters day, must be one of the most comforting of traditional dishes.

The vegetable garden gave us a picking of tomatoes in July. I used the summer vegetables in a risotto as the cold days called for slow food and what can be better than a slowly prepared risotto that is creamy and nutty. The roasted yellow and orange tomatoes were not only visually pleasing but were delicious with the creamy risotto.

Risotto with roasted orange and yellow tomatoes

I enjoy rainy days and the comfort of winter days that force one to slow down and to discover the hidden pleasures of a slow life.